It’s April Fool’s Day! But at Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air, we’re not here to fool anyone! No tricks here – just a whole lot of transparency. We thought we’d take utilize this day instead to debunk some common HVAC myths. There’s a lot of misinformation about HVAC systems out there. We know it can be tough to sift through it all! As your trusted local heating and cooling specialists, we’re here to help you distinguish between fact and fiction!
1. The HVAC Myth – Lower or Higher Temperatures Lead to Quicker Heating or Cooling of the Home
This common HVAC myth confuses many. Have you ever found yourself needing to cool or warm your home quickly, so you lowered or cranked up the thermostat, hoping it would speed up? Unfortunately, that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system operate. This is due to the fact that many HVAC systems distribute air consistently regardless of the temperature setting. So, whether it’s set to 50 or 70 degrees, the airflow remains the same. Essentially, adjusting it beyond the necessary range only leads to energy wastage and higher energy bills!
Dispel this myth by setting your thermostat to your preferred temperature. Allow your system to work at its own pace. For a more energy-efficient way to control your home’s temperature, think about installing a smart thermostat if you haven’t got one already. If you’re not home, you have the convenience of adjusting the temperature from your smartphone before you return. Say goodbye to rushing to cool or warm your home quickly!
2. The HVAC Myth – The Placement of the Thermostat Is Not Crucial
What about where you put the thermostat? It’s crucial! We’ve seen various DIY jobs with poorly positioned thermostats. But the placement of your thermostat does matter as it’s what tells your HVAC system when to kick in, circulate, and control the air. So, if your thermostat is near a heat source (like a sunny window, fireplace, heater, or drafty spot), it can give inaccurate readings. These false readings can then mess with your HVAC system, causing temperature inconsistencies in your home.
Dispel this myth by ensuring your thermostat is positioned on an interior wall, such as a hallway, and away from heat sources or drafty areas. If you’re not experienced in thermostat installation, consider consulting a licensed HVAC technician for assistance.
3. The HVAC Myth – The Air Filters Do Not Require Frequent Changes
Now, let’s talk about the air filter myth. If you’ve been with us for a while, you probably know the routine. We always stress the importance of regularly changing your air filters on time! According to industry standards, it’s best to replace your HVAC air filters every 30-60 days. However, many people skip this, believing it’s not essential to do it frequently. But if you consider it, your HVAC system operates all day, every day. The purpose of air filters is to prevent dust and other airborne particles from entering your HVAC system and circulating throughout the home. Thus, keeping air quality high is crucial for your system’s health and your well-being.
Dispel this myth by replacing your air filters every 1-2 months as recommended. Improve your home’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) by using top-notch HEPA air filters.
4. The HVAC Myth – Preventative Maintenance Is “Optional”
We saved this myth for last because it’s one of the most common, but it’s crucial to stay on top of your preventative maintenance. Let’s face it: while nobody can MAKE you schedule your seasonal maintenance checks, they really shouldn’t be seen as optional. Just as you wouldn’t go years without seeing a doctor, the same applies to your HVAC system. Both your AC unit and furnace are intricate pieces of machinery working around the clock to keep your family comfortable. Having a professional check them regularly ensures everything runs smoothly and gets fine-tuned when needed.
Dispel this myth by regularly following recommended maintenance checks. Aim for a seasonal maintenance check for your AC unit in spring or early summer and one for your furnace in the fall. This practice will prolong your system’s lifespan and prepare your units for the upcoming season. An added benefit: staying on top of these checks helps maintain your equipment manufacturer’s warranty validity!
Beware of these common HVAC myths. You can always rely on the expertise of your local NATE-certified technicians from Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air. Remember, believing HVAC myths can lead to system damage, wasted energy, higher bills, and costly mistakes in the long run. If you’d like to learn more information about taking care of your HVAC system, feel free to check out the rest of our informational blogs!
Stay informed about your HVAC system with us! Call Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air anytime at (614) 490-7530, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
