With the internet at our disposal, you can find information on anything and everything. If you’re doing your due diligence as a homeowner and searching how to take care of your HVAC system, you’ll find thousands upon thousands of articles on how to do so. The key to a long-lasting HVAC system is proper maintenance and care, but how do you achieve this when there’s so much misconception floating around? On top of that, following the wrong information can cost you A LOT— increased utility bills, a time-consuming repair, or an expensive replacement. Our experts at Dyess Air & Plumbing are here to clear the air once and for all by debunking the most common HVAC myths out there.
Myth #1: The bigger the HVAC system, the better
We’re sorry to pop your bubble, but bigger isn’t always better, and that applies to your heater and air conditioner. If you get one that’s disproportionate to your property, it will continuously cycle on and off, which can create humid conditions inside the home. The problems don’t end there; you might experience other issues with your ducts and poor air distribution. According to Energy Star, this improper installation can reduce efficiency by 30%. If that wasn’t enough, remember that it will cost you more to install a larger system. When you’re replacing your old system, have a trusted expert properly size the unit.
Myth #2: Closing vents to unused rooms or areas will reduce heating and cooling costs
It makes sense to close off the vents to save energy. Why waste money and energy to heat and cool unoccupied areas, right? Unfortunately, this concept delivers the exact opposite results. Your HVAC system is specially designed for your home, and doing this can unbalance proper airflow. Air pressure begins to build up in the ducts, which can lead to a handful of problems, including leaks. Check around the home to make sure that the vents are open and that there’s no furniture blocking airflow.
Myth #3: You only need to change your air filter once a year
Breathe clean, healthy air with one easy step— replace your air filter. Are you doing your part? If you’re doing this once a year, you must make it more of a regular task. And if you’re not doing this in the first place, please start now. A dirty filter obstructs airflow, which makes your system work harder. For an energy-efficient unit and improved air quality, you’ll want to change the filter at least every three months.
Myth #4: It doesn’t matter where the thermostat is located
Your thermostat plays a vital role in controlling your home’s climate— you could say it’s the brain of your entire heating and cooling system. That is why its placement is so important. If placed in direct sunlight or under a vent, you could get inaccurate readings that might shut off your system prematurely or keep it running for too long.
Myth #5: Routine maintenance is not important
We go to the doctor for regular checkups. We take our cars in for regular inspections. We do these things to make sure everything is working as they should, and the same applies to your HVAC system. Ignoring maintenance can leave you with a significant repair, hefty bill, and uncomfortable living situation. Not only that, but these checkups can help everything run at peak performance and prolong its lifespan. At Dyess Air & Plumbing, our maintenance includes a 25-point checklist that includes everything from cleaning debris from the outdoor unit and inspecting the evaporator coil to testing for proper operation.
Dyess Air & Plumbing is here to help ensure your home stays comfortable all year long. Contact us online or at (843) 242-0855 to learn more about our maintenance services!