6 HVAC MYTHS DEBUNKED

Buying and maintaining your HVAC system can be tricky, especially with myths and misconceptions that many people believe. That doesn't have to be the case anymore. Keep reading to debunk common myths about HVAC systems.

1. The Square Footage of Your Home Is All You Need

Your home's square footage is only one of the factors that contribute to the final decision of your AC’s size. To select and install a new heating and cooling system, your technician needs to inspect your windows, check for air leakage, measure ceiling height, and confirm your insulation and ventilation levels.

By only using square footage, you risk selecting an ill-fitting system with high installation costs and energy bills. Moreover, doing so wouldn't be compliant with nationally approved standards from the Air Conditioning Contractors of America.

2. The Bigger Your HVAC System, the Better for Your Home

Wrong! An oversized system often has a shorter lifespan and will cost you more. Moreover, larger HVAC systems tend to frequently cycle on and off, which increases humidity in your home and causes discomfort. Other issues also include leaking ductwork and poor air distribution.

An undersized unit isn't any better as it will drive up your energy bills. Therefore, with the help of a technician, choose the right HVAC system for your home that's appropriately sized and fits your home heating and cooling needs satisfactorily.

3. The Location of Your Thermostat Doesn't Matter

The thermostat is the most crucial component of your HVAC system. It's like the brain that regulates the system. For your system to work to its optimum and obtain accurate temperature readings, it needs to be in the correct location.

Where should you place the thermostat? Guidelines include the following:

• Keep a thermostat away from direct sunlight as the system can heat up and read high temperatures.
• Place a thermostat away from a vent.
• Place the thermostat away from heated areas such as the kitchen or bathroom.
• Keep a thermostat away from drafty windows and doors or hallways with different airflow.

4. The Air Filter Only Needs Changing Once a Year

Your filter needs regular cleaning, unlike the belief that it needs changing once a year. The air filter accumulates dirt quickly, especially if your home has more pollutants such as shedding pets or many home occupants.

Leaving it dirty will cause mechanical problems, hefty repair costs, efficiency loss, and eventually, a total system failure. Aim to check and change your HVAC system air filter at least monthly or every other month.

5. The Closing of Vents Will Help Reduce Your Costs and Save on Energy

When helping to select and install HVAC systems, technicians will also look at airflow in your home, including air vents and registers. The pro will then install a system that works appropriately alongside the vents.

If you close one or more of your vents, you can cause an imbalance of pressure load in the system. Such an upset of balance will cause airflow and pressure problems, leaks in the ducts, and more work for your system, resulting in increased costs and energy bills.

Consequently, your system will fail as it works more to achieve balance and to distribute the air. Therefore, leave the system to work as-is without closing vents.

6. The Turning of Systems On and Off Will Help Reduce Energy Consumption

Constantly switching the system on and off can cause your system to work harder. Start-and-stop operations on your heater will stress your compressor to activate and deactivate, which uses more energy and causes increased humidity and discomfort. So instead of reducing consumption, your bills will shoot up.

If you want to reduce your energy consumption, select a system with a programmable thermostat, so it's set on low when you don’t use it.

If you want to get value for your money through buying or maintaining your HVAC system, only follow the facts. And when you're unsure, always consult an expert. Contact us today for repair, installation, and maintenance services.