It’s April Fool’s Day! But at Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning, we’re not into fooling anyone. In fact, we want to take this chance to bust some common myths regarding HVAC systems. Truly, there’s a ton of HVAC misinformation out there, making it tough to separate fact from fiction. However, as your go-to heating and cooling professionals, we’re here to help you sort out what’s real and what’s not and to guide you through the best ways to maintain your HVAC system for the long haul.
1 – “You Can lower or Raise the Temperature So It Gets Colder/Warmer Faster”
This common misconception catches many people off guard. So, let’s bust it! Ever found yourself in a situation where you urgently need to cool (or warm) your home quickly, so you turn down or crank up the thermostat, hoping it will speed things up? Unfortunately, that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system operate. Most systems blow air at a consistent rate regardless of the temperature setting. So, whether you choose 50 degrees or 70 degrees, it’ll still pump out air at the same speed. In the end, you’re just using up extra energy by going lower or higher than necessary.
Don’t be a part of this myth. Instead, set your thermostat to your preferred temperature. Then, kick back and let your system work at its own pace. For a more energy-efficient and hassle-free way to manage your home’s temperature, think about getting a smart thermostat if you don’t already have one. When you’re away, you can adjust the temperature right from your smartphone before you even walk through the door. Easy peasy! No need to rush to cool or warm your home!
2 – “You Can Place the Thermostat Anywhere You Want”
What about where you put the thermostat? Does it really matter? We’ve come across lots of DIY setups with thermostats in odd spots! But this one is yet another bust! Because where you place the thermostat is key. It’s there to communicate with the HVAC system, telling it when to kick in, spread air, and keep things in check. So, if your thermostat sits close to a heat source such as a sunny window, fireplace, heater, or a drafty spot like a door or window, its temperature readings can go haywire and be inaccurate. These misreadings can mess with your HVAC system, causing it to act up and result in inconsistent and irregular temperatures in your house.
Don’t be a part of this myth by just making sure your thermostat is placed inside an interior wall, like a hallway, and away from heat sources or drafty spaces. If you’re not sure about where to install one or perhaps you already have one installed near a heat source or a drafty area, it might be a good idea to book an appointment with a licensed HVAC technician.
3 – “You Don’t Have to Change Your Air Filters That Much”
Now, let’s talk about this air filter myth. If you’ve been with us for a while, you probably know the routine. So, you already know this one is a complete bust! We always stress how crucial it is to change your air filters regularly and on schedule. But it’s not just us! According to industry norms, it’s advised to swap out your HVAC air filters every 30-60 days. But many folks skip this, believing it’s not that important to do it frequently. When you take a moment to ponder it though, your HVAC system is working around the clock every single day of the week. It’s there to prevent dust and other particles from getting into your HVAC system and home. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to change them frequently. Air filters are designed to maintain high indoor air quality, impacting both your system’s health and YOUR well-being!
Don’t be a part of this myth by simply making a point to change out your air filters every 1-2 months as recommended. You can also amp up your home’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) by using top-notch HEPA air filters.
4 – “You Don’t Have to Schedule Your Maintenance Checks So Often”
We left this myth for last because, to be honest, it’s one of the most common ones. It’s crucial to stay on top of your preventative maintenance. But, let’s face it, no one can MAKE you schedule your seasonal maintenance checks. However, they really shouldn’t be seen as “optional.” Just as you wouldn’t go years without a check-up, the same applies to your HVAC system! Keep in mind that both your AC unit and furnace are like hardworking machines that run round the clock to keep you and your family comfy and cozy. So, it’s wise to have a professional check them regularly to ensure smooth operation and fine-tune things. Needless to say, consider this myth busted!
Don’t be a part of this myth by adhering to recommended regular maintenance checks. You should schedule seasonal maintenance for your AC unit once in the spring or early summer, and for your furnace once in the fall. This practice promotes system longevity and ensures optimal performance for the upcoming season. On top of all that, keeping up with your regular seasonal checks maintains the validity of your equipment manufacturer’s warranty!
You don’t have to fall for these common HVAC myths! Rely on the expertise of your local NATE-certified technicians at Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning. Remember, though some HVAC myths may seem harmless, they can lead to system damage, wasted energy, and higher bills. If you’d like to know more about proper HVAC system care, check out the rest of our informational blogs!
Stay in the loop with us about your HVAC system. Call Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning anytime at (740) 625-2320, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
