Solving These 8 HVAC Myths

Do you believe in these common HVAC myths? Dispel the misconceptions about heating and cooling to save energy and boost home comfort.

Nothing is more important to maintaining a complete sense of comfort at home than your HVAC system. Despite this, many homeowners fall prey to common HVAC myths that lead to inefficient performance, unnecessary costs and comfort problems. We’re here to correct these misconceptions to help your heating and cooling system operate as efficiently as possible.

Myth 1: It’s Best to Replace the HVAC Filter Once a Year

Even though it just sits there, changing your filter every year won’t be enough to ensure your air quality is safe. This time frame is only viable if you have the most basic filter, no pets, no allergies and a small household size. For all other designs, you should replace the filter every 30 to 90 days as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

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

In reality, your thermostat’s location is crucial for truly effective heating and cooling. Prioritize installation far enough away from strong sunlight, drafts and sources of heat as well as your doors and windows. Installation works best on an interior wall in an open part of your home the average indoor temperature.

Myth 3: Regular HVAC Maintenance Won’t Pay Off

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

• Improved efficiency: Regular maintenance is the best way to keep your system running as efficiently as possible, helping cut energy consumption and your utility bills.
• Less frequent repairs: At every maintenance visit, your technician will find and resolve small problems like a broken belt or blocked air filters before they cause larger issues. A future-minded approach helps sidestep unexpected breakdowns and the associated repair costs.
• Extended equipment life: Consistent upkeep assists your HVAC system in functioning correctly, extending its life by several years to avoid premature replacement costs.

Myth 4: Installing an Energy-Efficient Unit Is All That’s Needed to Reduce My Bills

While this is a good first step, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is only one of your options maximize efficiency and minimize monthly utility costs, you’ll need to employ these additional strategies:

• Guarantee accurate sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be sized and installed correctly to avoid suboptimal performance and increased energy costs.

• Enhance the amount of insulation and sealing in your house: Bolstering your insulation levels and closing any remaining gaps around the house keeps air conditioning indoors. Steps like adding more attic insulation, sealing the small cracks in your walls, and replacing old windows and doors help maintain a stable indoor climate and lower energy waste.

• Install a programmable thermostat: This newer HVAC accessory allows you to set up automatic energy-saving temperatures according to your schedule. Program your smart thermostat with automatic setbacks to reduce energy use while you’re sleeping or away from home.

• Boost air circulation: Keep all supply and return vents clear and use ceiling fans to keep air moving throughout your home. This distributes HVAC across the board for stable comfort and efficiency.

Myth 5: Duct Tape Is a Good Way to Seal Leaky Ductwork

Lots of homeowners believe this misconception because duct tape has a very similar name to your ductwork. Sadly,  it won’t be able to withstand the temperature variations and pressure of HVAC systems, making it a bad choice for sealing duct leaks. Instead, use specially made mastic sealant or aluminum foil tape for more permanent results.

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

Quite the opposite, sizing the HVAC system correctly is a complex calculation that takes into account much more than the size of the home itself. Here are some of the other things an experienced heating and cooling technician will take into consideration when selecting an appropriate system size for your home:

• The local climate
• The size and layout of your windows
• Insulation levels
• How much outside air enters your home
• The direction your home faces
• The size of your household
• Interior heat gain

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 trap more pollutants, they also limit how much air can flow through. Try to use a filter that’s compatible with your HVAC system to avoid lowering performance and overworking the system. In many cases, this means using a different design, like a pleated or electrostatic filter. Our Experts can help you make the right choice.

Myth 8: There’s No Need for Me to Understand My HVAC

You may not need to be a furnace and air conditioner specialist to enjoy your heating and cooling system, but catching up on the basics is quite helpful. A little knowledge goes a long way toward maintaining your HVAC system properly, catching minor issues and making informed decisions with your technician.

Team up with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

With these common HVAC myths exposed, you’re finally prepared to optimize your heating and cooling system. For additional advice and insights, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians are more than willing to answer all your questions and help you reach complete comfort and higher energy savings at home. Reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.