Debunking These 8 Common HVAC Myths
Have you fallen for these common HVAC myths? Dispel the misconceptions about your HVAC system to conserve energy and improve home comfort.
Nothing is more important to maintaining total comfort and peace of mind than your HVAC system. However, many homeowners unintentionally believe common HVAC myths leading to weaker performance, unnecessary costs and comfort problems. It’s time to debunk these misconceptions to ensure your HVAC system runs 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 annually is rarely enough to keep your air quality high. This time frame is only appropriate if you have a basic filter, no pets, no allergies and no large family. 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 absolutely vital for HVAC effectiveness. The thermostat should be installed away from direct sunlight, drafts and heat sources as well as the windows and doors. It’s best to find an interior wall correctly read 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 delivers higher savings by making sure your HVAC system enjoys:
- Boosted efficiency: Professional maintenance keeps your system running at peak efficiency, helping cut energy waste and your utility bills.
- Less frequent repairs: As we complete a maintenance visit, our technicians can identify and fix small problems like a broken belt or dirty air filters before they cause larger issues. This proactive approach helps sidestep unexpected breakdowns and their painful price tags.
- Extended equipment life: Consistent upkeep aids your HVAC system in operating properly, extending its life by several years to prevent premature replacement costs.
Myth 4: A High-Efficiency HVAC System Is All It Takes to Lower Energy Costs
While starting here is never a bad idea, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is genuinely maximize efficiency and minimize monthly utility costs, you’ll need to employ these additional strategies:
- Ensure proper sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be sized correctly to avoid impacting the system’s efficiency and elevated energy costs.
- Add more home insulation and seal leaks: Boosting 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 gaps around walls, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors help preserve even temperatures and reduced energy waste.
- Install a programmable thermostat: This innovative HVAC control allows you to create settings for energy-saving temperatures that fit neatly into your schedule. Streamline your thermostat with automatic setbacks to reduce energy use while you’re asleep or on vacation.
- Improve airflow: Keep all supply and return vent openings in the open position and use ceiling fans to keep air moving throughout your home. This distributes HVAC across the board for improved comfort and efficiency.
Myth 5: Duct Tape Is a Good Way to Seal Leaky Ductwork
Plenty of people are misled by this because duct tape has a very similar name to your ductwork. Unfortunately, it won’t be able to handle the temperature extremes and pressure of HVAC systems, making it a ineffective solution for sealing duct leaks. Instead, use specially made mastic 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 considers much more than how big your home is. Here are other things any professional heating and cooling technician will evaluate when choosing the appropriate size of HVAC system:
- Your average climate
- How big your windows are and where they’re placed
- Insulation levels
- Air infiltration rates
- Which way your house is oriented
- The size of your household
- Heat generated in the home
Myth 7: A More Efficient HVAC Air Filter Is Always Better
Perhaps you’ve heard about the wonders of HEPA filters and are considering installing one in your HVAC system. At the same time, while higher efficiency air filters trap more pollutants, they also restrict airflow. Try to use a filter that’s compatible with your HVAC system to avoid hurting efficiency and putting too much stress on it. In many cases, this means using a a pleated, mid-range or electrostatic filter. Your Expert technician can help you make the right choice.
Myth 8: There’s No Need for Me to Understand My HVAC
You shouldn’t have to be a heating and cooling Expert to use your heating and cooling system, but catching up on the basics is quite helpful. A refresher goes far toward ensuring your HVAC system’s peak performance, troubleshooting small issues and communicating effectively with your technician.
Team up with McKinley Heating Service Experts
With these common HVAC myths debunked, you’re finally prepared to make the most of your heating and cooling system. For more useful tips and ideas, turn to McKinley Heating Service Experts. Our certified technicians are happy to answer your questions and help you achieve a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. Contact McKinley Heating Service Experts for more information.
