Debunking These 8 Common HVAC Myths

Are you worried about these infamous HVAC myths? Clear up 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. At the same time, many homeowners unintentionally believe common HVAC myths that leave you with weaker performance, higher costs and comfort problems. Let’s clear the air on these misconceptions to ensure your HVAC system runs as effectively as possible.

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

Even though it just sits there, changing your filter annually usually isn’t enough to keep your air quality high. This time frame is only viable if you have a 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: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Really Matter

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

Myth 3: Preventative Maintenance Is a Waste of Money

Routine HVAC maintenance is an affordable, predictable cost that delivers higher savings by making sure your HVAC system enjoys:

• Boosted efficiency: Regular maintenance is the best way to keep your system running at peak efficiency, helping cut energy consumption and your utility bills.
• Reduced repair needs: At every maintenance visit, our technicians can find and resolve small problems like a broken bolt or blocked air filters before they result in widespread damage. Taking such a proactive approach avoids unexpected breakdowns and their painful price tags.
• Longer system life span: Consistent upkeep helps your HVAC system in operating properly, extending its life by a few seasons to prevent premature replacement costs.

Myth 4: A High-Efficiency HVAC System Is All It Takes to Lower Energy Costs

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’ll need to employ a few other strategies:

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

• Add more home insulation and seal leaks: Increasing insulation levels and sealing any air leaks around the house keeps air conditioning indoors. Steps like adding more attic insulation, sealing gaps around walls, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors help provide a stable indoor climate and less energy use.

• Get a programmable thermostat: This newer HVAC accessory allows you to program energy-saving temperatures based on your schedule. Streamline your thermostat with automatic setbacks to cut down on energy consumption while you’re sleeping or away from home.

• Improve airflow: Keep all supply and return registers clear and use ceiling fans to circulate more air throughout your home. This evens out the heated or cooled air across the board for better comfort levels and efficiency.

Myth 5: Duct Tape Is Effective for Sealing Air Ducts

Plenty of people fall for this myth because duct tape has a very similar name. Unfortunately,  it won’t be able to handle the temperature extremes and pressure of HVAC systems, making it a poor strategy 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

While it may surprise you, proper HVAC sizing is a complex calculation that takes into account much more than how big your home is. Here are some of the other things a trained heating and cooling technician must consider when selecting an appropriate system size for your home:

• Your average climate
• Window size and layout
• Insulation levels
• The rate at which outdoor air gets indoors
• The direction your home faces
• How many people live in your house
• The amount of heat your home collects over time

Myth 7: The Higher the Efficiency of the HVAC Air Filter, the Better

Perhaps you’ve been told about the wonders of HEPA filters and wish to put one in your HVAC system. At the same time, while higher efficiency air filters filter out more contaminants, they also limit how much air can flow through. Try to use a filter that’s appropriately matched to your HVAC system to avoid lowering performance and overworking the system. In many cases, this is easiest with a different design, like a pleated or electrostatic filter. Our Experts can help you select the best option.

Myth 8: Understanding My HVAC System Isn’t Necessary

You can’t be expected to be a HVAC Expert to enjoy your heating and cooling system, but understanding the basics is very beneficial. A little knowledge goes far toward keeping your HVAC in good shape, 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 now able to optimize your heating and cooling system. For additional advice and insights, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians are ready to address your questions and help you reach complete comfort and higher energy savings at home. Get in touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.