Solving These 8 Myths About HVAC

Do you believe in these well-known HVAC myths? Clear up the misconceptions about heating and cooling to save energy and improve home comfort.

Nothing is more helpful for maintaining a complete sense of comfort at home than your HVAC system. At the same time, many homeowners fall prey to common HVAC myths that lead to weaker performance, higher costs and comfort problems. We’re here to correct these misconceptions to help your heating and cooling system operate as optimally as possible.

Myth 1: You Should Replace the HVAC Filter Every Year

Contrary to popular belief, changing your filter once a year is rarely enough to maintain good air quality. This time frame is only appropriate if you have a basic filter, no pets, no allergies and no large family. For all other designs, try to replace the filter every 30 to 90 days as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Myth 2: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Really Matter

Quite the opposite, your thermostat’s location is crucial for HVAC effectiveness. The thermostat should be installed a safe distance from direct sunlight, drafts and any other sources of heat as well as your doors and windows. The ideal placement is on an interior wall in an open part of your home the day-to-day indoor temperature.

Myth 3: Routine HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary

Routine HVAC maintenance is a cost-effective investment for the foreseeable future that saves money by offering:

• Improved efficiency: Professional maintenance keeps your system running as efficiently as possible, helping cut energy use and your utility bills.
• Less frequent repairs: At every maintenance visit, technicians spot and repair small problems like worn belts or a clog in the air filter before they lead to bigger problems. A future-minded approach avoids unexpected breakdowns and the costs that come with.
• Extended equipment life: Consistent upkeep assists your HVAC system in operating properly, extending its life by a few seasons to forestall premature replacement costs.

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

While it’s a strong start, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is really maximize efficiency and minimize energy costs, it might be a good idea to use these additional strategies:

• Make sure of correct size and setup: Your HVAC unit must be sized correctly to avoid suboptimal performance and higher energy costs.

• Seal and insulate your home: Boosting insulation levels and sealing any air leaks around the house keeps conditioned air inside where it belongs. Steps like increasing attic insulation, sealing cracks in walls, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors help provide even temperatures and lower energy waste.

• Get a programmable thermostat: This newer HVAC accessory allows you to set up automatic energy-saving temperatures that fit neatly into your schedule. Set and forget your thermostat with automatic setbacks to minimize power use while you’re asleep or away from home.

• Boost air circulation: Keep all supply and return registers open and use ceiling fans to encourage more circulation throughout your home. This helps evenly spread heated or cooled air more uniformly for stable comfort and efficiency.

Myth 5: Duct Tape Is Effective for Sealing Air Ducts

Many people are misled by this because duct tape has a very similar name. Unfortunately,  it’s not designed to cope with the temperature changes and air pressure inside HVAC systems, making it a bad choice for sealing duct leaks. Alternatively, use the appropriate mastic sealant or aluminum foil tape for more effective results.

Myth 6: Square Footage Is the Only Factor Used to Size an HVAC System

While it may surprise you, proper HVAC sizing is a complex calculation that takes into account much more than just your home’s square footage. Here are some of the other things a trained heating and cooling technician will consider when choosing the appropriate size of HVAC system:

• Your average climate
• Window size and layout
• Insulation levels
• Air infiltration rates
• Which way your house is oriented
• How many people live in your house
• The amount of heat your home collects over time

Myth 7: Opting for High Efficiency HVAC Air Filters Is Always the Right Choice

Perhaps you’ve heard about the wonders of HEPA filters and are considering installing one in your HVAC system. At the same time, while HEPA air filters catch more particles, they also limit how much air can flow through. Remember to use a filter that’s appropriately matched to your HVAC system to avoid lowering performance and straining the equipment. In many cases, this is easiest with a a pleated, mid-range or electrostatic filter. An HVAC technician can help you select the best option.

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

You can’t be expected to be a HVAC Expert to operate a furnace and air conditioner, but understanding the basics is very beneficial. A little knowledge goes a long way toward maintaining your HVAC system properly, troubleshooting small issues and making informed decisions with your technician.

Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

With these common HVAC myths debunked, you’re ready to fully utilize your heating and cooling system. For more useful tips and ideas, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians are more than willing to answer all your questions and help you enjoy a more energy-smart household. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.