At Vandalia Heating & Cooling, we aim to clear up common HVAC myths about HVAC systems. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and it can be tough to sort through it all. As your local heating and cooling experts, we’re here to help you understand the facts and best practices to keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come.
The Higher the Temperature, the Faster the Home Will Be Cooled/Warmed – WRONG!
This first myth catches a lot of people. Have you ever urgently needed to cool or heat your home quickly, so you set the thermostat to an extreme temperature, hoping it will work faster? Unfortunately, that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system work. Most systems distribute air at a steady rate, regardless of the temperature setting. So, whether you set it at 50 degrees or 70 degrees, the air comes out at the same rate. Ultimately, setting the temperature too high or too low only wastes energy.
To debunk this myth, just set your thermostat to your desired temperature and let your system work at its own pace. For a more energy-efficient and convenient way to manage your home temperature, consider installing a smart thermostat if you don’t already have one. When you’re away, you can adjust the temperature using your smartphone before you return home. This means you won’t need to worry about cooling or warming your home “fast”.
The Placement of the Thermostat Is Not Important – WRONG!
What about the placement of the thermostat? Does it matter? We’ve seen many DIY jobs where thermostats were installed in the least strategic spots. But thermostat placement does matter. A thermostat’s job is to communicate with the HVAC system, telling it when to release air, distribute it, and regulate it. So, think about it: if your thermostat is placed near a heat source like a window with direct sunlight, a fireplace, a heater, or a drafty area like a door or window, its temperature reading will be inaccurate. These false readings can mislead your HVAC system, causing irregular and uneven temperatures throughout your home.
Dispel this myth by placing your thermostat on an interior wall, like in a hallway, away from heat sources or drafty areas. If you need a thermostat installed and lack experience, consider consulting a licensed HVAC technician.
The Air Filters Do Not Need to be Changed That Often – WRONG!
Now, let’s address the air filter myth. If you’ve been with us for a while, you probably know this already: it’s crucial to change your air filters regularly. Industry standards recommend replacing HVAC air filters every 30-90 days. Many people skip this, thinking it’s unnecessary. But consider this: your HVAC system runs constantly; its job is to keep dust and airborne particles out of your home and system. Changing air filters is essential to maintaining high indoor air quality, which impacts both your system’s health and yours!
Counter this myth by changing your air filters every 1-3 months as recommended. In addition, you can further improve your home’s indoor air quality by using high-quality HEPA filters.
Preventative Maintenance Does Not Matter – WRONG!
We saved this myth for last because it’s one of the most common ones. It’s extremely important to keep up with your preventative maintenance. While no one can force you to schedule your seasonal maintenance checks, they really shouldn’t be considered as “optional”. Just like you wouldn’t go years without seeing a doctor, the same applies to your HVAC system. Your AC unit and furnace are complex machines that run 24/7 to keep you and your family comfortable. So, it makes perfect sense to have them inspected and tuned up by a professional regularly to ensure everything is running smoothly and make any necessary adjustments.
Dispel this myth by following the recommended maintenance checks. Schedule a seasonal check for your AC unit in spring or early summer, and one for your furnace in the fall. This practice extends your system’s life and ensures your units are ready for the upcoming season. Additionally, regular checks help maintain your equipment manufacturer’s warranty.
Don’t be misled by common HVAC myths. Trust your local NATE-certified technicians from Vandalia Heating & Cooling to keep you informed about your HVAC system. Remember, HVAC myths might seem harmless, but they can lead to system damage, wasted energy, higher bills, and costly mistakes in the long run.
Call Vandalia Heating & Cooling today at (937) 912-1303 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
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