Before you buy a new HVAC system, you need to do some research to ensure that you make an informed decision. However, the downside is that you will often come across many myths regarding the selection, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning systems.
These common HVAC myths can misinform you and cause you to make a costly mistake when choosing your air conditioner. This article is going to debunk 10 of the most widespread misconceptions people have about HVAC purchasing, repair, and maintenance. Read on to find out more.
Myth 1: Routine HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary
The golden rule here is to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to the maintenance of your HVAC system. One of the most common myths out there is that if the air conditioning system is still heating and cooling your home, you do not need to worry about it.
However, regular maintenance can save money by avoiding costly repairs or even the installation of a replacement AC unit. If you are a smart homeowner, you will schedule maintenance services to have your filter, air ducts, and furnaces looked at before it is too late.
Myth 2: Bigger Is Better
With an HVAC system, bigger is not always better. The size of the room and the outside temperature conditions are very important when deciding the right air conditioning unit to buy.
After all, you need to balance the need to cool or heat your home with what you can afford in terms of energy bills. A huge HVAC system may just end up burning more gas or electricity than is needed.
Myth 3: It Doesn’t Matter Where the Thermostat Is
Contrary to what you may have heard, the position of the thermostat is very important when it comes to maintaining the right temperature in your home and making sure the air conditioner is working efficiently.
Ideally, the thermostat needs to be placed away from sources of heat, direct sunlight, drafts, and windows or doors. Choosing an interior wall will help the AC unit run at the best rate to provide heating and cooling without breaking the bank in terms of energy bills.
Myth 4: A New HVAC System Increases the Value of a House
Installing a new air conditioner improves the air quality, reduces energy consumption, and creates a more comfortable home. However, that does not always translate to more value on the market.
Realtors do not usually consider the HVAC system unless it is not functioning. If you are about to sell your house and you have an HVAC system that is still functional, there is no need to waste money buying a new one.
Myth 5: It’s Best to Replace the HVAC Filter after a Year
A year is too long for an HVAC filter to be left accumulating dust. By the time the 12 months are up, your air quality will have drastically reduced, and you will probably be paying higher energy bills than you should.
Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, it is usually a great idea to replace the filter every three months or when the season changes. This way, you will ensure the AC unit is always performing at its best.
Myth 6: Square Footage Is the Only Factor That Determines HVAC Sizing
One of the most common HVAC myths is that during the installation of a new HVAC system, you only need to consider the size of the area that needs to be heated or cooled. Many other factors need to be considered, such as:
- Climate
- Interior heat gain
- Window size and layout
- Number of people in the house
- Level of insulation
- The direction your home faces
- Rate or air infiltration
To make sure you invest in the right equipment, you should consider approaching a local HVAC maintenance and services provider, such as Pure Eco Inc. HVAC Expert. This way, you will get the advice that you require in terms of the size of the AC unit and avoid buying something that you don’t need.
Myth 7: Duct Tape Is a Good Way to Seal Leaky Ductwork
Maybe it is the similarity between the words duct tape and ductwork, or it is simply the over-reliance on quick fixes that many people have. Whatever the case, an alarming number of people believe they can repair leaky ductwork by simply wrapping the area in duct tape.
However, the heat generated by your HVAC unit is too much for ordinary duct tape to withstand. As such, if you notice any signs of leaking, it is better to call an air conditioner repair technician to fix your HVAC system correctly.
Myth 8: Installing an Energy-efficient AC Will Automatically Reduce Bills
A high-efficiency HVAC system has a lot of advantages in terms of energy consumption, but it is not the only thing that will determine the overall cost of heating or cooling your home. Buying one is a good start, but you will also need to consider other factors, such as:
- How to keep air flowing throughout your home (installing ceiling fans)
- Using a programable or smart thermostat
- Improving insulation
- Sizing and installing the HVAC system correctly
Myth 9: The Higher the Efficiency of the HVAC Filter, the Better
When installing a new HVAC system, do not always worry about the filter. In some cases, the wrong filter may cause your HVAC to work harder. As such, buying the right filter for your particular AC unit is always the best option.
Myth 10: HVAC Equipment Matters Less than Insulation and Windows
Direct sunlight and outdoor temperature have a huge effect on how hard your AC will have to work to maintain an ambient environment. However, you also need to ensure that your air conditioner is up to the task. Therefore, a balance between the two factors is the right way to go.
Need AC Repair Servics? Call the Experts
Whether you want to upgrade your HVAC unit or you simply require some heat pump repair services, hiring an expert technician can save you a lot of money and time down the road. The good news is that, when it comes to AC repair Los Angeles has a lot of great service providers to choose from. Go online right now and begin your search.
