On April Fool’s Day this year, we want to focus our efforts in clarifying common HVAC myths for our valued customers. We are not in the business of making fools out of anyone, and we take pride in the fact that we operate under full transparency. So, join your Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling HVAC family for an insightful guide on debunking misinformation and embracing industry best practices. No tricks here – just truth!
1. The “Air Filters Don’t Need Changed Often” Myth
If you are familiar with our services or are a previous customer with us, you are likely well-aware that the statement is false. Air filters play a crucial role in every HVAC system and should be replaced on a regular basis, typically every 1-2 months. Your HVAC system works hard daily to distribute air throughout your home. So, neglecting to change these filters can result in various issues, including reduced airflow, higher energy expenses, and potential system failures. Failing to replace air filters is akin to skipping an oil change for your vehicle; though it may seem minor, it can have significant long-term effects.
Counter this Myth with Best Practices: Set reminders to ensure timely replacement of your air filters, as per industry standards. Furthermore, contemplate investing in premium air filters to enhance indoor air quality and safeguard your home and your HVAC system against dust and debris accumulation.
2. The “Set the Temperature lower or Higher So It Cools or Heats Faster” Myth
This misconception is widely believed that adjusting your thermostat to a much higher temperature accelerates the cooling or heating process. However, this, of course, is untrue. Residential HVAC systems typically circulate air at a consistent rate, no matter what the temperature setting is. Therefore, raising the thermostat results in unnecessary cooling and increased energy costs rather than quicker comfort.
Counter this Myth with Best Practices: For peak efficiency and comfort, adjust your thermostat to the desired temperature and allow your system time to reach it at its own pace. Additionally, installing a programmable thermostat is a great idea because you can align it with your schedule to optimize temperature control, which offers convenience and even energy efficiency benefits.
3. The “You Can Place Your Thermostat Anywhere You Want” Myth
This is yet another HVAC myth that needs clarification. The positioning of your thermostat can indeed greatly influence the precision and effectiveness of your HVAC system. Placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, windows, or other drafty areas can cause inaccurate readings and inconsistent temperatures in your household, potentially causing the system to distribute air incorrectly.
Counter this Myth with Best Practices: Ensure your thermostat is positioned in a central location on an interior wall, away from direct heat sources or drafts. If needed, you can also seek advice from your HVAC technician for optimal placement based on your system and home layout.
4. The “Preventative Maintenance Doesn’t Matter” Myth
This final point is entirely inaccurate. It is misleading as preventive maintenance plays a critical role in ensuring the durability and effectiveness of your HVAC system. Routine maintenance inspections can avert sudden malfunctions, enhance efficiency, and prolong the system’s lifespan. For instance, consider it akin to a health assessment for your HVAC system, as early issue detection can prevent expensive repairs in the future. Plus, on top of all that, when you fail to keep up with your regular maintenance checks, your warranty with the manufacturer is voided!
Counter this Myth with Best Practices: Arrange annual service appointments with a certified HVAC technician. Typically, you should schedule a seasonal maintenance check for your AC in spring or early summer and another for your furnace in autumn. These checkups include component cleaning, wear and tear assessment, and system efficiency verification. This proactive strategy can result in notable cost savings in the long run by catching underlying issues early on and also guarantees your system’s preparedness for every season.
Don’t let these HVAC myths make you feel foolish! While misconceptions about HVAC systems may appear harmless, they have the potential to result in costly errors and harm to your HVAC system. By knowing the truth and adhering to industry standards, you can safeguard the durability, effectiveness, and comfort of your HVAC system. Instead, rely on the knowledge of your local NATE-certified technicians at Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling to stay well-informed about your HVAC system and its requirements. Interested in more HVAC care tips? Feel free to check out the rest of our informational blogs!
Keep cool (or warm) and myth-free all year round with Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling! Call us today at (937) 412-2911, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
