The Truth of These 8 HVAC Myths

Do you believe in these infamous HVAC myths? Clear up the misconceptions about heating and cooling to reduce your energy bills and enhance home comfort.

Nothing is as crucial to maintaining a complete sense of comfort at home than your HVAC system. At the same time, many homeowners are misled by common HVAC myths leading to inefficient performance, higher costs and comfort problems. Let’s clear the air on these misconceptions to help your heating and cooling system operate as optimally as possible.

Myth 1: You Only Need to Change the HVAC Filter Once a Year

Even though it just sits there, changing your filter annually won’t be enough to keep your air quality high. This time frame only works if you use a basic filter, no pets, no allergies and a small household size. Otherwise, try to replace the filter every 30 to 90 days as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Myth 2: It Doesn’t Matter Where the Thermostat Is

As a matter of fact, your thermostat’s location is very important for HVAC effectiveness. Make sure to install your thermostat somewhere that’s far enough away from hot sunlight, drafts and heat sources as well as the windows and doors. Installation works best on an interior wall in a large space the day-to-day indoor temperature.

Myth 3: Routine HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary

Routine HVAC maintenance is a budget-friendly and consistent expense that delivers higher savings by making sure your HVAC system enjoys:

• Boosted efficiency: Regular maintenance keeps your system running as efficiently as possible, reducing energy use and your utility bills.
• Reduced repair needs: At every maintenance visit, our technicians can identify and fix small problems like a broken belt or blocked air filters before they result in widespread damage. A future-minded approach prevents unexpected breakdowns and the costs that come with.
• Longer system life span: Consistent upkeep helps your HVAC system in functioning correctly, extending its life by a few seasons to prevent premature replacement costs.

Myth 4: Upgrading to Energy-Efficient HVAC Is All I Need to Lower My Expenses

While this is a good first step, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is just a single option. To {truly maximize efficiency and minimize monthly utility costs, you will want to implement a few other strategies:

• Ensure proper sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be sized and installed correctly to avoid impacting the system’s efficiency and elevated energy costs.

• Add more home insulation and seal leaks: Increasing insulation levels and tightening the seal of windows and doors around the house keeps the AC from getting out. Steps like enhancing attic insulation, sealing cracks in walls, and installing better windows and doors help preserve a stable indoor climate and lower energy use.

• Upgrade to a programmable smart thermostat: This newer HVAC accessory allows you to create settings for energy-saving temperatures according to your schedule. Set and forget your thermostat with automatic setbacks to minimize power use while you’re in bed or on vacation.

• Keep air flowing: Keep all supply and return registers in the open position and use ceiling fans to encourage more circulation throughout your home. This distributes heated or cooled air more consistently for improved comfort and efficiency.

Myth 5: Duct Tape Is Effective for Sealing Air Ducts

Plenty of people believe this misconception because duct tape has a very similar name to your ductwork. But as you can imagine,  it’s unable to withstand the temperature variations and air pressure inside HVAC systems, making it a bad choice for sealing duct leaks. Instead, use the appropriate mastic sealant or aluminum foil tape for more efficient results.

Myth 6: Square Footage Is the Sole Factor to Determine HVAC Sizing

On the contrary, proper HVAC sizing is a complex calculation that takes into account much more than the size of the home itself. Here are other things a trained heating and cooling technician must evaluate when sizing your HVAC:

• The local climate
• How big your windows are and where they’re placed
• How well your home is insulated
• How much outside air enters your home
• Which way your house is oriented
• Occupancy levels
• Heat generated in the home

Myth 7: A More Efficient HVAC Air Filter Is Always Better

Perhaps you’ve been told about the wonders of HEPA filters and are considering installing one in your HVAC system. However, while higher efficiency air filters filter out more contaminants, they also restrict airflow. Try to use a filter that’s appropriately matched to your HVAC system to avoid a drop in efficiency and overworking the system. In many cases, this means using a different design, like a pleated or electrostatic filter. An HVAC technician can help you select the best option.

Myth 8: Understanding My HVAC System Isn’t Necessary

You can’t be expected to be a heating and cooling Expert to enjoy a furnace and air conditioner, but understanding the basics is very beneficial. A refresher goes far toward maintaining your HVAC system properly, troubleshooting small issues and working closely with your technician.

Team up with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

With these common HVAC myths cleared up, you’re ready to make the most of your heating and cooling system. For further suggestions, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians are happy to answer your questions and help you achieve a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. Get in touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.