In today’s world, it’s hard to know what is true. Artificial intelligence, double speak, and so much information – both accurate and inaccurate – flood our lives that it’s sometimes hard to know what to believe. That’s why HVAC myths persist that people assume are true even if they aren’t.
This is the truth about 8 common HVAC myths and misconceptions!
Here at ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing we KNOW what’s fact and what’s fiction because that’s our business, but if you’re not involved in the air conditioning industry, you might not know. I’m here to share the truth with you.
Myth 1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
One persistent myth suggests that closing vents in unused rooms will save energy.
This is NOT true.
In reality, closing vents can do more harm than good. Research from the U.S. Department of Energy reveals that closing vents can increase air pressure in the ducts, leading to leaks and reduced system efficiency. Energy expert John Proctor explains,
"Modern HVAC systems are designed to operate with all vents open. Closing them disrupts the balance and may force your system to work harder."
Myth 2: A Bigger HVAC System is Always Better
Many homeowners believe that a larger HVAC system will cool or heat their homes faster.
Not so.
However, this myth often results in over-sizing, which can be costly. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) cites that oversized HVAC systems cycle on and off frequently, consuming more energy. An appropriately sized system, as calculated by ServiceOne professionals, is crucial for efficiency.
Think of it like this. Why would you spend thousands more dollars on a large bus that carries dozens of passengers, but takes more fuel and is not as easy to drive if you only have two people in your family and an economy car would do the job?
Myth 3: Changing the Thermostat Temporarily Wastes Energy
Some people think that turning off their HVAC system when they leave home and then turning it back on consumes more energy than maintaining a consistent temperature.
Again, this is a myth.
The Department of Energy advises the opposite approach. Instead of turning off your AC when you leave the house, the DOE suggests that raising the temperature slightly while you’re away can reduce energy consumption significantly. Smart thermostats, like the Nest Learning Thermostat, can adapt to your schedule, turn the thermostat back down before you arrive home, and maximize your savings. savings.
Myth 4: Regular HVAC Maintenance is Unnecessary
The idea that your air conditioning system doesn’t need maintenance is not only a myth, it’s crazy.
That would be like saying that your car never needs an oil change!
Neglecting HVAC maintenance is a costly mistake. The statistics speak for themselves: a study by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) found that well-maintained HVAC systems can operate up to 20% more efficiently than neglected ones. HVAC specialist Jane Smith emphasizes,
"Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your system but also prevents costly breakdowns."
One study suggested that routine maintenance can extend the lifespan of your system by up to 40%, which is 4 years or more.
That’s a huge advantage.
Not only does routine maintenance extend the lifespan of your equipment, but it keeps it operating at peak efficiency, which saves you money and prevents breakdowns!
Myth 5: Closing Doors and Windows Improves Efficiency
Many homeowners believe that sealing off their homes by keeping doors and windows tightly closed improves HVAC efficiency. While it’s good to have tight seals, every home needs good ventilation and a certain amount of fresh air. Otherwise, the quality of your air suffers.
Experts caution against homes that are too airtight without proper ventilation or the ability to input fresh air. The Building Performance Institute (BPI) highlights the importance of ventilation for indoor air quality. Seal your home too tightly, and you risk poor ventilation and potentially harmful indoor pollutants.
Don’t forget that one of the best things you can do to improve your air quality is to invest in a REME Halo, a device that is inserted into your air conditioner and then purifies the air with Hydrogen Peroxide and UltraViolet light, killing 99.9% of all germs!
Myth 6: Your HVAC Filter Only Needs Changing Once a Year
Absolutely, without a doubt, UNTRUE!
This myth can lead to indoor air quality issues and decreased HVAC efficiency.
The number of times you need to change your air filter depends on many factors, but at ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing we recommend that you change your air filter every 30-45 days.
A clogged filter reduces airflow and can cause the system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption. Dirty filters also can spew germs, dirt, and pet dander back into the air, putting you at risk for more respiratory problems.
Myth 7: All HVAC Systems are Created Equal
You’ve heard that you can’t compare apples to oranges, right?
An old air conditioning system manufactured before the emphasis on efficiency and before the era of advanced technology simply cannot compare to a new, state-of-the-art unit specifically focused on energy savings.
The Energy Star program reports that high-efficiency HVAC systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 50%. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit will be and the more money you’ll save on utility bills. There’s a big difference between an old unit with a SEER rating of 13 and a new unit with a SEER rating of 18!
Myth 8: HVAC Maintenance is a DIY Job
While some HVAC maintenance tasks, like a simple filter change, can be completed by homeowners, a comprehensive check-up should be left to professionals.
According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), 70% of HVAC system failures are a result of improper installation and maintenance. Certified HVAC technicians have the training and experience to spot and address issues effectively.
Air conditioning units also contain refrigerants, which are toxic materials and require specially trained technicians to deal with.
If you aren’t yet a ClubOne member that guarantees two Precision Tune-Ups per year, consider joining. For low monthly payments – or an annual lump sum payment if you choose – you will get two complete check-ups for your equipment per year, helping you avoid costly repairs and unexpected problems with your air conditioning or heating when you need it most.
NOT a myth!
In a crazy, harried world when we’re pummeled daily with information, it may be hard to know what to believe.
Here’s one thing you know is true.
ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing is a trustworthy, reputable company that focuses on providing superior service to our customers. We’ve got twenty years of experience in providing the best equipment and advice to customers all over the Orlando region.
Call us. We’ll give you the straight scoop on what’s fact and what’s fiction; what’s myth and what’s truth!