There are many myths about the operation and upkeep of residential HVAC systems. Homeowners who want to enjoy years of uninterrupted service from their heating and cooling systems need to know how to maintain the units and sidestep the misinformation. In this post, you’ll learn more about common HVAC myths and how to take care of your system better.
Myth #1 – Changing the Filter Doesn’t Affect My HVAC’s Performance
Residential HVAC units have filters that homeowners need to change on average every 30-90 days. When you forget to change the filter, the unit works harder to filter pollutants. Over time, two things will happen. The air becomes dirty because there’s no room left for debris and dust particles to go in the filter, and two, the unit may not blow warm or cool air. Changing the air filter is the simplest maintenance task you can do, but if you’d like to do it less, vacuum your home regularly, brush your pets, and don’t smoke or vape in the house.
Myth #2 – I Don’t Need to Change the Filter in between Maintenance Checks
It’s also important to mention that many homeowners erroneously believe that getting maintenance services through their local HVAC service means they don’t have to change the filter in between service calls. But answer this question. How often do you have HVAC maintenance service? Is it once every season or twice a year? Also, what type of filter does your HVAC system use? Most homeowners need to change their filter in between tune-ups and maintenance services.
Myth #3 – Drastic Thermostat Changes Won’t Hurt My System
No one wants to live uncomfortably in their home. If the temperature’s gotten too cold or hot in your home, don’t turn the thermostat up or down by more than a degree or two at a time. Adjusting the thermostat way down or way up isn’t doing your heating or cooling system any favors. It puts a lot of unnecessary stress on your unit. The better option is to let the temperature warm up or cool down a little at a time. Putting this in practice is gentler on your HVAC unit and keeps it running better for longer.
Myth #4 – Close the Air Vents and Save Money
You might have heard this advice from a frugal friend or parent, but it’s actually a myth. Closing air vents in rooms you’re not using to save money on heating and cooling isn’t the best decision. Your air vents are designed to move all the air from your HVAC unit to various parts of your home. When several vents are closed at once, this stresses systems, especially older systems. Instead, of closing vents, consider shutting the blinds or closing curtains in rooms not being used. This keeps these rooms cooler without damaging the HVAC system.
Myth #5 – My Thermostat Is Always Accurate
That’s not always the case, especially if your thermostat is located in a dark hallway that doesn’t get sunlight. The thermostat might register a temperature several degrees cooler in the hallway than what the rest of the house is. The opposite is true if the thermostat is in a sunny location. The best location for a thermostat is one that’s in an area of the house that where you will get an accurate reading. If you’re not sure where the best location is, call your local HVAC service to help you figure this out.
If you have more questions about your home’s HVAC system, call Cox Air at 727-442-6158. We’re happy to debunk common myths and provide great heating and cooling services!
Leave a Reply