When it comes to your home’s heating and cooling, there’s a lot of information out there—and not all of it is accurate. Believing these common HVAC myths can lead to higher energy bills, reduced system efficiency, and even costly repairs. At Extreme Heat and Air, we’re here to set the record straight and help you make informed decisions for your home comfort.
Myth #1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
This is one of the most widespread HVAC misconceptions. While it might seem logical to close vents in rooms you don’t use, this practice can actually harm your system.
The Fact: Your home’s HVAC system is a carefully balanced network designed to distribute a specific amount of air throughout your entire home. Closing a vent creates a pressure imbalance in the ductwork. This forces your system to work harder to push air through a restricted space, increasing wear and tear on components, potentially causing duct leaks, and ultimately leading to higher energy consumption. For optimal efficiency, keep all vents open to allow for proper airflow.
Myth #2: Setting the Thermostat to an Extreme Temperature Heats or Cools the Home Faster
Many people believe that if they set their thermostat to a very high or low temperature, their home will reach the desired temperature more quickly.
The Fact: HVAC systems operate at a consistent rate. Setting your thermostat to 60°F won’t cool your home any faster than setting it to 75°F. The system will simply run for a longer period to reach that extreme temperature, wasting energy and putting unnecessary strain on the equipment. A better approach is to set your thermostat to the temperature you want and let your system work at its own pace. Programmable or smart thermostats are great for this, as they can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule.
Myth #3: A Bigger HVAC System is Always Better
When shopping for a new system, it’s easy to assume that a larger, more powerful unit will provide superior comfort.
The Fact: An HVAC system that is too large for your home will “short cycle,” meaning it turns on and off too frequently. This is inefficient, as the system doesn’t run long enough to properly dehumidify the air, leaving your home feeling cool but clammy. It also causes excess wear on the compressor, which can shorten the lifespan of your unit. A professional HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine the precise size needed for your home’s specific layout, insulation, and window placement to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort.
Myth #4: You Only Need Maintenance if Your System is Broken
Many homeowners neglect routine maintenance, thinking they only need to call a professional when something is obviously wrong.
The Fact: Your HVAC system is a complex machine that needs regular tune-ups, much like a car. Routine maintenance—typically recommended twice a year, once for heating and once for cooling—is a proactive measure. A professional tune-up can catch small issues before they become major, costly repairs. It also ensures your system is operating at peak efficiency, which saves you money on energy bills and extends the overall life of your equipment.
By understanding these facts, you can take better care of your HVAC system, ensuring it runs efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively for years to come.
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