At Blacklick Heating & Cooling, we’re not here to make fools out of anyone. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to debunk some common HVAC myths about HVAC systems. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and we get how tough it can be to navigate through it all. As your trusted local heating and cooling experts, we’re excited to help you sort out fact from fiction and share the best practices to keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come.
HAVE YOU HEARD THE HVAC MYTH ABOUT RAISING OR LOWERING YOUR TEMPERATURE SETTING?
This first myth catches a lot of people! Have you ever been in a rush to cool (or warm) your home quickly, so you crank the thermostat higher, thinking it’ll speed things up? Well, we hate to burst your bubble, but that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system work. Most systems distribute air at a steady rate, no matter the temperature setting. So, whether you set your air to 50 degrees or 70 degrees, it’ll push out air at the same pace. In the end, you’re just wasting energy by aiming for a lower or higher number than necessary.
Counter this myth by simply setting your thermostat to your desired temperature. Then, sit back and let your system do its thing at its own pace. If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient and convenient way to manage your home’s temperature, consider installing a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. When you’re away, you can adjust the temperature right from your smartphone before you even walk through the door. This way, you won’t need to worry about getting your home cooled or warmed up “fast”!
HAVE YOU HEARD THE HVAC MYTH THAT THE THERMOSTAT PLACEMENT DOES NOT MATTER?
What about the placement of the thermostat? Does it matter? Yes, it does! We’ve seen many DIY jobs where thermostats were placed in the least strategic spots. Your thermostat’s job is to communicate with the HVAC system, telling it when to put out air, distribute it, and regulate it. So, think about it: if your thermostat is near a heat source like a window with direct sunlight, a fireplace, a heater, or even a drafty area like an exit door or window, its temperature reading will get skewed. These false readings will then mess with your HVAC system, causing uneven and irregular temperatures throughout your home.
To counter this myth, place your thermostat on an interior wall, like in a hallway, and away from heat sources or drafty spots. Even better, if you need to install a thermostat and aren’t experienced, it might be wise to consult a licensed HVAC technician for the job.
HAVE YOU HEARD THE HVAC MYTH THAT THE AIR FILTERS DO NOT NEED TO BE CHANGED SO OFTEN?
Now, let’s talk about the air filter myth. If you’ve been with us for a while, you likely know the routine. We always emphasize the importance of changing your air filters regularly and on time. According to industry standards, it’s recommended to swap out your HVAC air filters every 30-90 days. However, many people skip this, thinking it’s not necessary to change them that often. But if you think about it, your HVAC system runs all day long throughout the week. Its job is to keep dust and other airborne particles from entering your HVAC system and home. Air filters are designed to maintain your home’s indoor air quality, which directly impacts the health of your system and you!
Counter this myth by changing your air filters every 1-3 months as recommended. You can take your home’s IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) to the next level by using high-quality HEPA air filters.
HAVE YOU HEARD THE HVAC MYTH THAT PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE WON’T MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
We saved this myth for last because, honestly, it’s one of the most common ones. It’s super important to keep up with your preventative maintenance. And let’s face it, while no one can MAKE you schedule your seasonal maintenance checks, they really shouldn’t be considered “optional.” Just like you wouldn’t go years without seeing a doctor, the same goes for your HVAC system. After all, both your AC unit and furnace are complex machines that work hard 24/7 to keep you and your family comfortable. So, it makes sense to have them looked at by a professional regularly to ensure everything is running smoothly and to fine-tune things as needed.
Counter this myth by sticking to your regular maintenance checks as recommended. It’s a good idea to schedule a seasonal check-up for your AC unit in the spring or early summer and one for your furnace in the fall. This practice not only extends the life of your system but also ensures your units are ready to handle the upcoming season smoothly. Plus, keeping up with these seasonal checks helps maintain your equipment manufacturer’s warranty.
Don’t be fooled by these common HVAC myths! Trust the expertise of your local NATE-certified technicians from Blacklick Heating & Cooling, and stay informed with us about your HVAC system. Remember, while some HVAC myths might seem harmless, they can lead to damage, wasted energy, higher bills, and other costly mistakes that could affect your system long-term. Stay smart and save with us!
Call Blacklick Heating & Cooling today at (614) 245-2572 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!