The Truth of These 8 HVAC Myths
Have you fallen for these well-known HVAC myths? Clear up the misconceptions about your HVAC system to conserve energy and enhance home comfort.
Nothing is more important to maintaining a complete sense of comfort at home than your HVAC system. However, many homeowners are misled by common HVAC myths that leave you with weaker performance, higher costs and comfort problems. It’s time to debunk these misconceptions to make sure your home comfort system works as effectively as possible.
Myth 1: It’s Best to Replace the HVAC Filter Every Year
Contrary to popular belief, changing your filter once a year usually isn’t enough to maintain good air quality. This time frame only works if you have the most basic filter, no pets, no allergies and no large family. If not, try to replace the filter every 30 to 90 days as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Myth 2: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Really Matter
In reality, your thermostat’s location is absolutely vital for an effective HVAC system. The thermostat should be installed away from strong sunlight, drafts and any other sources of heat as well as your doors and windows. It’s best to find an interior wall in a large space the daily indoor temperature.
Myth 3: Preventative Maintenance Is a Waste of Money
Regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance is a budget-friendly and consistent expense that can save you money in several ways:
- Improved efficiency: Professional maintenance the easiest way to keep your system running at its best, helping cut energy waste and your utility bills.
- Less frequent repairs: At every maintenance visit, your technician will spot and repair small problems like a broken belt or dirty air filters before they result in widespread damage. A future-minded approach helps sidestep unexpected breakdowns and the costs that come with.
- Extended equipment life: 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 it’s a strong start, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is only one of your options maximize efficiency and minimize those monthly energy bills, it might be a good idea to use other helpful strategies:
- Ensure proper sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be sized and installed correctly to avoid suboptimal performance and elevated energy costs.
- Add more home insulation and seal leaks: Bolstering your insulation levels and tightening the seal of windows and doors around the house keeps the AC from getting out. Steps like adding more attic insulation, sealing cracks in walls, and replacing old windows and doors help provide a stable indoor climate and reduced energy use.
- Get a programmable thermostat: This affordable investment 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 sleeping or away from home.
- Improve airflow: Keep all supply and return vents in the open position and use ceiling fans to circulate more air throughout your home. This distributes heating and air conditioning across the board for stable comfort and efficiency.
Myth 5: Duct Tape Is Effective for Sealing Air Ducts
Plenty of people fall for this myth since duct tape has a very misleading name. Unfortunately, it won’t be able to cope with the temperature changes and air pressure inside HVAC systems, making it a bad choice for sealing duct leaks. Instead, use the appropriate mastic or aluminum foil tape for more efficient results.
Myth 6: Square Footage Is the Sole Factor to Determine HVAC Sizing
On the contrary, sizing the HVAC system correctly is an intricate process that accounts for much more than the size of the home itself. Here are some of the other things a trained heating and cooling technician will take into consideration when choosing the appropriate size of HVAC system:
- The local climate
- The size and layout of your windows
- Insulation levels
- Air infiltration rates
- The direction your home faces
- How many people live in your house
- Interior heat gain
Myth 7: Opting for High Efficiency HVAC Air Filters s Always the Right Choice
Perhaps you’ve heard about the wonders of HEPA filters and are considering installing one in your HVAC system. However, while higher efficiency air filters catch more particles, they also reduce air circulation. It’s important to use a filter that’s compatible with your HVAC system to avoid lowering performance and straining the equipment. In many cases, this means using a mid-range pleated or electrostatic filter. An HVAC technician can help you choose wisely.
Myth 8: There’s No Need for Me to Understand My HVAC
You may not need to be a heating and cooling Expert to enjoy your heating and cooling system, but catching up on the basics is very beneficial. A little knowledge goes a long way toward ensuring your HVAC system’s peak performance, diagnosing issues and working closely with your technician.
Partner with A1 Chesney Service Experts
With these common HVAC myths exposed, you’re finally prepared to optimize your heating and cooling system. For further suggestions, turn to A1 Chesney Service Experts. Our certified technicians are ready to address your questions and help you reach complete comfort and higher energy savings at home. Contact A1 Chesney Service Experts for more information.
