When a subject is misunderstood or understudied, it’s normal for myths to sprout up in place of facts. Although HVAC systems aren’t terribly complex, few people take the time to educate themselves on how these systems actually work. Instead, many people go by what they consider to be conventional wisdom, but it isn’t always accurate. In many cases, homeowners are operating their HVAC systems based on popular misconceptions.
A home’s HVAC system gets overlooked because it’s largely unseen; air ducts, fans, motors and other cooling and heating components are hidden from sight. However, it’s important that homeowners work toward a basic understanding of how their systems function so that they can spot warning signs of a problem. The first step in learning about HVAC is unlearning the misconceptions. That’s why we’re busting the most common HVAC myths!
Want to avoid expensive HVAC surprises? Schedule regular maintenance with the best HVAC Waxahachie, TX, can provide: the experts at Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating. Contact us online or give us a call at 469-256-7828.
Myth #1: a Low Thermostat Setting Means Faster Cooling
It may seem like the best way to cool your home is to set the thermostat temperature really low so that it cools faster. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Although humans might be motivated to work faster when the task is bigger, HVAC systems obviously have no conception of urgency. Whether you set your thermostat for 72 degrees or 58 degrees, it’s going to cool at the same rate.
Myth #2: The Bigger HVAC System, the Better
When it’s time to buy a new HVAC system, some homeowners think the bigger, the better. This couldn’t be further from the truth. If you want an efficient HVAC system, you need to buy one that’s appropriately sized for the space you’re trying to cool.
For example, if you outfit your three-bedroom home with an HVAC system intended to cool a gymnasium, you’re going to encounter a few problems. A big HVAC system will blast your home with air, cooling it quickly, but then shut off rapidly. This is a process known as short-cycling, and it’s extremely hard on your HVAC system. You’ll end up wasting money on constant repairs, as well as on higher utility bills.
When you’re ready to buy a new HVAC system, make sure you research the best systems for your home’s size. If you need help choosing an ideal HVAC system, Waxahachie, TX, air experts at Dial One Johnson can point you in the right direction.
Myth #3: HVAC Filters Need Changed Once a Year
When it comes to changing your HVAC filters, once a year should be the absolute bare minimum. Not only do clogged HVAC filters contain dirt, dust, pet hair, allergens and other things that can damage indoor air quality, but they can also impede air flow. As a result, a clogged or excessively dirty filter can put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, as well as drive up utility bills. In seasons of heavy use, you should clean or change your HVAC filters once a month or every two months.
Myth #4: Duct Tape Can Seal Air Duct Leaks
Ironically, duct tape is not effective at sealing air duct leaks. The adhesive on most duct tapes isn’t strong enough to withstand blowing air or changing temperatures. As a result, it will generally flag and fall off, leaving you with an air leak. Air leaks cause your HVAC system to work harder to heat or cool your home and can increase your utility bills. When you have an air duct leak, your best bet is to call the best HVAC contractors Waxahachie, TX, can provide: the heating and cooling specialists at Dial One Johnson.
Myth #5: I Should Close Vents in Empty Rooms
It’s easy to see why people think that closing the vents is a smart move; after all, closing the vents means there’s one less room to cool or heat, right? Not exactly. When you close off air vents, you create a backup of air within the air ducts, forcing your HVAC system to re-route airflow. Pressure builds up in the air ducts and can cause damage, tears and air leaks.
Myth #6: Ceiling Fans Help Cool Spaces
Ceiling fans don’t cool air; they only move air. When the wind from the fan hits your sweaty face, you may feel cooler for a second, but the air itself isn’t cooler. Fans move existing air around, which means they can circulate warm or cool air throughout the home. Although they can help with the distribution of conditioned air, they won’t help cool your home unless you have a functioning air conditioner.
Myth #7: I Don’t Need Regular HVAC Maintenance
You really, really do. Unless you’re capable of performing a thorough seasonal HVAC inspection on your own, you need regular maintenance. When you schedule regular maintenance, you’re investing in your HVAC system’s lifespan and saving money in the long run. An experienced HVAC professional can catch potential problems before they require expensive repairs, as well as perform seasonal tasks that help keep your system running smoothly.
Professional HVAC Maintenance
Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance may seem like a headache, but it’s really not. Especially when you sign up for Dial One Johnson’s Advantage Plan. Our Advantage Plan offers Waxahachie homeowners deep discounts on HVAC and plumbing services, repairs and seasonal tune-ups. Members can enjoy automatic reminders, free filter changes with each tune-up, front-of-the-line service and many other benefits.
Concerned you can’t afford our services? Don’t stress — we’ve got you covered. Dial One Johnson offers multiple financing options so that our customers can get the service they need with no out-of-pocket expenses. Contact the most trusted HVAC Waxahachie, TX, has to offer: the experienced technicians at Dial One Johnson. 972-291-0740
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.