Solving These 8 Myths About HVAC
Are you worried about these common HVAC myths? Debunk the misconceptions about heating and cooling to save energy and boost home comfort.
Nothing is as crucial to maintaining total comfort and peace of mind than your HVAC system. At the same time, many homeowners unintentionally believe common HVAC myths that lead to poor performance, unnecessary 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 Only Need to Change the HVAC Filter Every Year
Contrary to popular belief, changing your filter once a year usually isn’t enough to ensure your air quality is safe. This time frame is only appropriate if you use a basic filter, no pets, no allergies and a small household size. If not, you should replace the filter every 30 to 90 days as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Myth 2: It Won’t Matter Where Your Thermostat Is Installed
Quite the opposite, your thermostat’s location is crucial for truly effective heating and cooling. Make sure to install your thermostat somewhere that’s a safe distance from direct sunlight, drafts and sources of heat as well as your doors and windows. The ideal placement is on an interior wall correctly read the average indoor temperature.
Myth 3: Routine HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary
Preventative HVAC maintenance is a cost-effective investment for the foreseeable future that saves money by offering:
- Boosted efficiency: Professional maintenance the easiest way to keep your system running as efficiently as possible, reducing energy use and your utility bills.
- Less frequent repairs: At every maintenance visit, technicians find and resolve small problems like worn belts or blocked air filters before they result in widespread damage. This proactive approach prevents unexpected breakdowns and the associated repair costs.
- Increased system durability: 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 the beginning maximize efficiency and minimize those monthly energy bills, you’ll need to use other helpful strategies:
- Ensure proper sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be sized and installed correctly to avoid inefficient operation and increased energy costs.
- Add more home insulation and seal leaks: Bolstering your insulation levels and sealing any air leaks around the house keeps air conditioning indoors. Steps like increasing attic insulation, sealing cracks in walls, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors help maintain a stable indoor climate and less energy waste.
- Install a programmable thermostat: This innovative HVAC control allows you to create settings for energy-saving temperatures based on your schedule. Set and forget 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 distributes heated or cooled air more consistently for better comfort levels and efficiency.
Myth 5: Duct Tape Is a Good Way to Seal Leaky Ductwork
Lots of homeowners are misled by this because duct tape has a very similar name. Unfortunately, it won’t be able to cope with the temperature variations and pressure of HVAC systems, making it a poor strategy for sealing duct leaks. Instead, use specially made mastic or aluminum foil tape for more permanent results.
Myth 6: HVAC Sizing Is All About Square Footage
While it may surprise you, proper HVAC sizing is dependent on a detailed assessment that takes into account much more than just your home’s square footage. Here are some of the other things an experienced heating and cooling technician should evaluate when selecting an appropriate system size for your home:
- The local climate
- The size and layout of your windows
- Insulation levels
- The rate at which outdoor air gets indoors
- Which way your house is oriented
- Occupancy levels
- Heat generated in the home
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. But, while these high-efficiency air filters catch more particles, they also limit how much air can flow through. It’s important to use a filter that’s appropriately matched to your HVAC system to avoid a drop in efficiency and straining the equipment. In many cases, this is easiest with 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 shouldn’t have to be a heating and cooling Expert to use a furnace and air conditioner, but learning the basics is quite helpful. A little knowledge goes a long way toward ensuring your HVAC system’s peak performance, catching minor issues and making informed decisions with your technician.
Team up with Rob's Albertan Service Experts
With these common HVAC myths cleared up, you’re now able to fully utilize your heating and cooling system. For further suggestions, turn to Rob's Albertan Service Experts. Our certified technicians are happy to answer your questions and help you reach complete comfort and higher energy savings at home. Get in touch with Rob's Albertan Service Experts for more information.
