When it comes to your HVAC system, the professionals at BDL Heating and Cooling are here to help. However, it’s crucial for homeowners themselves to understand certain aspects of the HVAC system and not fall victim to many myths surrounding the upkeep of your system. Below we tackle some of the biggest myths surrounding HVAC systems and why you shouldn’t believe them.
Filters Need To Be Changed Once a Year
If you’re only changing your filter once a year, your system could be at risk for more problems. When these filters get dirty, they become clogged and restrict airflow. This is especially true during times when your system is used heavily, like the middle of winter or summer. Also, not all filters are the same, and some may require changing more frequently, like once a month. To ensure you’re changing yours enough, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
While not changing your filter enough can lead to issues, there’s no such thing as changing it too much! In fact, if you live with others who are sensitive to allergens or have pets that contribute dander to the air, changing it more frequently can make your home more comfortable.
If It’s Working, It Doesn’t Need Maintenance
When it comes to HVAC systems, the phrase “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” does not apply. Just because your system is running doesn’t mean it’s healthy. In fact, if you wait until your system is broken to have it looked at by a professional, you’ve waited too long.
Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns with your system, and neglecting to have it maintained can cost you a lot of money and headaches down the road. Be sure to schedule regular maintenance based on manufacturer recommendations. This will not only save you money but will improve efficiency, prolong its lifespan, and satisfy your warranty terms.
Drastically Changing Temps Will Save You $
When you’re dealing with extreme temperatures and are uncomfortable, you want relief fast. While it may seem logical to drastically reduce or increase the temperature on your thermostat to bring it to a comfortable level, this causes more harm than good. Not only does this not change your home’s temperature faster, but it wastes energy and money.
Once your home reaches the desired temperature, you may forget to raise it or reduce it, causing your system to waste more energy than it needs to. Additionally, changing temperatures drastically forces your system to work faster and harder, which can speed up wear and tear and ultimately cause major problems.
Closing Vents In Empty Rooms Can Increase Efficiency
Most homeowners assume if a room isn’t used frequently, it makes sense to close the vents to save energy and money. While this sounds logical, it’s completely false. Even if a room isn’t being utilized, it’s still connected to your system, and HVAC systems are meant to cool and/or heat. When you close the vent, it’s not producing less heating or cooling.
Additionally, closing vents can trap air inside the ducts. This can lead to air leaks or cause overheating and serious damage. In these situations, it’s actually safer and energy efficient to keep your vents open in all rooms at all times. If you need air balanced, call an HVAC professional.
It Doesn’t Matter Where Your Thermostat Is Installed
It may seem like the placement of your thermostat shouldn’t matter, but it does! In order to place your thermostat in a prime location, ensure it is:
- On any interior wall of your home
- Not adjacent to any windows
- Away from major appliances
- Never in direct sunlight
- In a central location, not in a closed room
- Near a return vent
Why? Some of these factors may cause a spike or decrease in temperature but is not indicative of the temperature in your entire home. For example, if a thermostat is placed near the kitchen, it may give a higher reading when the stove or oven is turned on, although this isn’t an accurate reading of your home’s temperature. Be sure to follow the above recommendations when installing your thermostat for maximum comfort and accurate readings.
A Bigger, Expensive HVAC System Means a Better System
For HVAC systems, bigger is not always better. Buying a system that’s too large for your home can waste energy, and just because a system is expensive doesn’t mean it’s best for you. Instead, look for a system that fits not only your budget but your home’s needs, too. If you’re unsure what size is right for you, BDL Heating and Cooling is here to help! We can perform a heating or cooling load calculation for your home so you can be sure you’re purchasing the correct size unit. Overall, don’t be fooled by high price tags. Instead, consider energy efficiency ratings, your budget, and the size of your home.
Duct Tape Is Meant for Duct Leaks
Don’t let the name fool you—duct tape should not be used to repair duct leaks. HVAC systems are built to handle extreme temperatures, and duct tape is not. Using duct tape to patch a leak in your duct can melt the tape or break it down, causing leaks to reopen. Instead, if you notice a leak, call an HVAC professional from BDL Heating and Cooling to assess the damage. Our team can perform pressure tests to identify leaks and properly repair them. Sorry duct tape, but repairing ductwork is not your time to shine.
Let BDL Heating and Cooling, Inc. Debunk All Your HVAC Myths
Not sure if what you’re hearing or reading is true? BDL Heating and Cooling can take the guesswork out of HVAC installation, repairs, and more. Give us a call today at (508) 643-5114 or contact us here and let’s discuss how we can keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape.
