Know The Truth: 4 Common HVAC Myths Busted

Learning about your HVAC system is one of the best ways to ensure you’re taking all the steps you need to keep it running properly, but there’s a lot of misinformation out there, unfortunately. We’re here to talk about some of the most common HVAC myths and what you really need to know about your Miramar, Florida, home’s HVAC system. Read on to learn more about the most common HVAC myths and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: A Small Unit Will Save Money

A common misconception is that a smaller unit will help save you money on utilities. After all, a smaller unit doesn’t use as much energy as a bigger unit, right? Wrong. A smaller unit can actually increase your utility costs thanks to longer cycling times and greater strain on the unit as it tries to heat or cool your home.

HVAC units are measured in the amount of space that it can handle, and getting an undersized unit means it isn’t rated to handle the size of your home. Inconsistent temperatures and an uncomfortable home are often the byproducts of undersized units. It’s best to get the size your home needs. This is not only more energy efficient, but your unit will have a longer lifespan thanks to reduced wear and tear.

Myth #2: Filters Only Need To Be Changed Annually

Your HVAC filter is one of the best defenses your home has against pollutants and allergens circulating in your air flow. In order for them to work right, they need to be relatively clear of debris and the right MERV rating for your system, as well as fitting properly. If your filter is clogged with dust and other particulates, it can cause issues with your system. These can range from poor air flow to excess dust in your air.

In order to keep this from happening, your HVAC filter needs to be changed every few months. If you have family members with sensitive allergies, you may want to exchange filters even sooner, as often as once a month. This will not only prevent a lot of irritants from getting into your home’s airflow but also keep your system working like it’s supposed to.

Myth #3: Turning Off Your HVAC Wastes Energy

When not at home many people choose to just turn up their HVAC temperature instead of shutting off their system. The thought behind this is that it takes more energy to restart the system than it does to just leave the temperature at a higher level throughout the day. This is actually not true: it’s more energy efficient to shut your system off (or at least raise the thermostat temperature) during the day.

Smart thermostats can help keep your home running as efficiently as possible. These pieces of technology can create a custom schedule for your family and ensure you’re not wasting energy, but that you also always return to a comfortable home. Plus, many are accessible via a phone app, letting you change your temperature remotely if your plans change or check how much energy you’re using.

Myth #4: Closing Vents Reduces Utility Costs

Closing off vents to different rooms in your home can seem like a handy way to prevent your system from heating or cooling those rooms and therefore reduce the energy needed to keep your home the temperature you like. However, this isn’t quite how HVAC systems work. Instead, your system will think that it isn’t putting out enough air flow to get your home to the set temperature, leading to increased cycling and higher energy consumption.

If you’re interested in leaving certain rooms in your home without climate control, you may want to consider a zoning system. This allows for separate temperature control, all from the same central unit. This can also be achieved via a mini-split ductless system, which will give specific rooms their own climate control system outside of the main unit.

It’s important to be well-informed when it comes to your climate control system. If you’re interested in learning more or are concerned about your HVAC, the experts at HI-VAC Air Conditioning Service can help. Call us at 954-246-4141 to learn more about your HVAC or schedule an appointment today!

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