Air conditioning still carries a persistent reputation: energy-hungry, noisy, and sometimes “bad for your health.” Many of these impressions come from past experiences with older systems that were less efficient and less well controlled. However, modern systems have evolved significantly, both in terms of energy performance and comfort and noise levels. In Quebec, where summers can be hot and humid, debunking these common myths helps homeowners make more rational choices that are better suited to their homes.
Summary of key points
- Air conditioning energy use depends mainly on sizing, settings, and the quality of the building envelope, not simply on “having an air conditioner.”
- Modern modulating technologies (often called Inverter systems) tend to provide more stable operation and better comfort control.
- An oversized system can cool quickly but dehumidify less effectively, creating a heavy feeling even at a low temperature.
- Noise is no longer a “necessary evil”: installation quality, placement, and design matter as much as the technology itself.
- “Colder” does not mean more comfortable: humidity control and temperature stability are critical.
- Basic maintenance (filters, clearances, cleanliness) helps maintain performance and air quality without heavy intervention.
- Many concerns stem from poor practices: extreme setpoints, inadequate ventilation, or systems poorly matched to the home.
Myth 1: “Air conditioning always uses a lot of energy”
Reality: it mainly depends on efficiency and how it is used
Saying that air conditioning “always” consumes a lot of energy is too simplistic. Consumption varies mainly according to:
- the efficiency of the unit,
- the size of the home and its insulation,
- the temperature setpoint,
- outdoor humidity,
- how air is distributed throughout the home.
A very sunny home with poor insulation and air leaks will require more energy, even with an efficient system. Conversely, a well-sealed and well-shaded home can maintain stable comfort with more moderate demand.
To better understand what really matters, here is a simple way to rank the key factors. The goal is not to “blame” the user, but to remember that the unit is only part of the equation.
- Building envelope (insulation, airtightness, windows).
- Solar gains (large windows, orientation, blinds).
- Settings (reasonable setpoint, scheduling).
- Maintenance (filters, heat exchangers, airflow).
- Sizing (equipment matched to actual needs).
After this list, remember one key point: a well-chosen and well-used air conditioning system should focus on stability, not peak performance at all costs.
Myth 2: “The lower I set the temperature, the more comfortable I’ll be”
Reality: humidity and stability often matter more
Many people associate comfort with low temperatures. Yet air that is too cold can be uncomfortable, especially if humidity is poorly controlled or if temperatures fluctuate significantly during cycles.
A common example: a home set very low cools quickly, but certain rooms still feel heavy or humid, and temperature differences between floors increase. This often happens when the system is oversized or poorly balanced, or when outdoor humidity is very high.
A more comfortable approach is often to:
- aim for a stable setpoint rather than large swings,
- reduce heat gains (blinds, targeted ventilation, cooking habits),
- ensure consistent airflow and a well-maintained system.
These are simple actions, but they have a real impact on perceived comfort.
Myth 3: “Modern air conditioners are noisy, it’s unavoidable”
Reality: noise depends largely on installation and operation
Noise is one of the most frequently cited concerns. However, sound levels depend not only on the brand or model, but also on installation quality: unit placement, vibration transmission, distance from windows, and fan balancing.
Modulating systems also offer a practical advantage: they do not need to start at full power as often. Fewer abrupt starts usually mean fewer noticeable sound changes.
Before drawing conclusions, here are the main factors that influence noise, from most common to most overlooked:
- mounts and fastening (vibration control),
- location (wall type, corner placement, proximity to bedrooms),
- clearances around the outdoor unit,
- condition of fan blades and cleanliness,
- ductwork and grilles (potential whistling).
After these points, one useful note: if noise has changed recently, it is often a maintenance signal (debris, loose part, unbalanced fan) rather than an unavoidable issue.
Myth 4: “Air conditioning dries the air too much”
Reality: it depends on the type of system and the settings
Air conditioning removes some humidity, but it does not automatically make the air “too dry.” In Quebec summers, the opposite problem is often more common: outdoor air can be very humid. A system that dehumidifies properly usually improves comfort.
What can create a dry-air sensation is more often:
- a very low and prolonged setpoint,
- poorly adjusted airflow,
- air distribution that creates cold spots,
- a system that cools without stabilizing humidity.
If you experience “dry” discomfort, it is often more useful to adjust settings and check airflow than to conclude that “air conditioning dries the air.”
Myth 5: “Older systems cool better than new ones”
Reality: comfort is not just about a blast of cold air
Some people prefer the strong, very cold airflow of older systems. This can give the impression that they “cool better.” But modern comfort focuses on stable temperature, more consistent humidity, and fewer fluctuations.
An older system may blow harder and cool quickly, but:
- it may cycle more frequently,
- it may dehumidify less effectively depending on conditions,
- it can create more noticeable temperature swings.
The best test is not the cold blast at the vent, but the system’s ability to maintain a comfortable atmosphere in living spaces without excessive variation.
Myth 6: “Air conditioning is only useful for a few weeks, so it’s not worth it”
Reality: it can improve summer comfort and help manage humidity
In Quebec, summer duration and intensity vary by region and by year. Even when temperatures are not extreme, humidity can make conditions uncomfortable. Air conditioning can therefore play an important role in comfort, sleep quality, and humidity management.
It can also be useful to:
- improve nighttime comfort,
- reduce humidity after rainy periods,
- stabilize indoor temperature during heat waves.
This myth often comes from an “all-or-nothing” view. In practice, comfort is mainly linked to smart use, not constant maximum operation.
Table – Myths vs realities (summary)
| Myth | What to remember | Simple action |
| “It always uses too much energy” | Depends on the building, settings, and sizing | Keep a stable setpoint, limit heat gains |
| “Colder is better” | Humidity and stability matter greatly | Avoid extreme setpoints, monitor humidity |
| “It’s always noisy” | Installation and operation have a major impact | Check placement, mounting, maintenance |
| “It dries the air too much” | Often related to settings or air distribution | Adjust setpoint, verify airflow |
| “Old systems cool better” | Modern comfort focuses on stability | Evaluate overall comfort, not just airflow |
| “Only useful a few days a year” | Humidity makes it useful more often | Use as needed, especially at night and after rain |
Simple best practices to avoid problems
Myths take hold when experiences are negative. In reality, a good experience often comes down to simple, repeatable actions and a system that fits the home.
Before the list, keep this in mind: the goal is to reduce the system’s load. When a home is easier to cool, the unit works less, makes less noise, and stabilizes humidity more effectively.
- Use blinds or curtains during the sunniest hours.
- Keep filters clean and return air paths clear.
- Avoid closing too many supply vents, which can unbalance airflow.
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens during and after use.
- Have the system checked if you notice very short cycles, abnormal frost, or new noise.
After these tips, a simple reminder: if comfort is uneven between rooms, the solution is often found in air distribution, not just at the thermostat.
Conclusion
Modern air conditioning is not perfect, but many criticisms come from outdated experiences, poorly matched systems, or settings that do not promote stability. Energy use depends largely on the building envelope, proper sizing, and usage habits. Noise is strongly influenced by installation and maintenance. And comfort is not just about lowering the temperature: stability and humidity control are often decisive.
To choose a solution that fits your home and avoid common mistakes, you can consult the specialists at Daikin Québec.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Conditioning Myths
Is a more powerful unit always better?
No. An oversized unit can cool quickly but dehumidify less effectively and cycle more often. The right choice depends on proper sizing.
Is “Auto” mode better for ventilation?
Often yes. Continuous fan operation can redistribute humidity in some cases. The best setting depends on the system and the comfort you are seeking.
Why do some rooms stay humid or warm?
This is often due to air distribution issues, insufficient return air, insulation differences, or localized heat gains.
Does maintenance really make a difference?
Yes. A clogged filter or dirty heat exchanger reduces airflow and efficiency, which can increase noise and reduce comfort.
How can I reduce discomfort without setting the air conditioning very low?
Stabilize the setpoint, reduce heat gains with blinds, ventilate at the right times, and ensure good air circulation.
