6 Common Myths About HVAC You Need to Stop Believing 

As homeowners, you rely on your HVAC systems to keep yourself comfortable all year round. But with so many myths and misconceptions floating around about how to maintain and use HVAC systems, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. In the prevalence of such myths and misconceptions, the internet has played a significant role. Since everyone has access to it, people can publish anything they hear or assume.

To help you with that, we have jotted down these myths in detail. But before you begin reading, we want you to introduce an HVAC installation and repair service provider; Diamond Flame Mechanical. They are in the business for years and serve the clients with the best.

Myth #1: Closing Vents In Unused Rooms Saves Energy

Many people believe that closing vents in unused rooms will save energy and lower their heating or cooling bills. However, this is a myth. Closing vents can actually cause your HVAC system to work harder, not less.

When you close a vent, it creates a pressure imbalance in your HVAC system, which can lead to air leaks and ductwork damage. In addition, the blocked airflow can cause your HVAC system to run less efficiently, as it will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in other rooms.

Instead of closing vents, consider installing a programmable thermostat that can adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences. This can help you save energy and reduce your heating and cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.

Myth #2: Bigger Is Better

Many people believe that a bigger HVAC system is always better, as it will be able to heat or cool their home more quickly and efficiently. However, this is a myth. An oversized HVAC system can actually be less efficient and more expensive to operate than a properly sized one.

When an HVAC system is too large for your home, it will cycle on and off more frequently, which can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the equipment and reduce its lifespan. In addition, an oversized system can create temperature imbalances, as it may not be able to distribute air evenly throughout your home.

To ensure that you have the right size HVAC system for your home, consult with a professional HVAC contractor who can perform a load calculation to determine your home’s heating and cooling needs.

Myth #3: Changing the Air Filter Once a Year Is Enough

Many people believe that changing their HVAC air filter once a year is enough to maintain their system’s efficiency and performance. However, this is a myth. Air filters should be changed more frequently, ideally every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies.

Dirty air filters can reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency and increase your energy bills, as they can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary. In addition, dirty air filters can lead to poor indoor air quality, as they can allow dust, pollen, and other pollutants to circulate through your home.

To maintain your HVAC system’s efficiency and indoor air quality, make sure to change your air filter regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.

Myth #4: Closing Doors And Vents In Unused Rooms Will Save Energy

Another common myth is that closing doors and vents in unused rooms will save energy and lower your heating or cooling bills. However, this is not always the case.

When you close doors and vents in unused rooms, you create pressure imbalances in your HVAC system, which can lead to air leaks and damage to your ductwork. In addition, your HVAC system may have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in other rooms, which can actually increase your energy bills.

To save energy and reduce your heating and cooling costs, consider using a zoned HVAC system that can adjust the temperature in individual rooms or zones based on your preferences and schedule.

Myth #5: Annual HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary

Finally, many people believe that annual HVAC maintenance is unnecessary, as their systems appear to be functioning properly. However, this is a myth. Annual HVAC maintenance is essential for ensuring that your system is operating efficiently, safely, and reliably, and can help prevent costly breakdowns and repairs down the line.

During an HVAC maintenance appointment, a professional technician will inspect and clean your system, check for any potential issues, and make necessary adjustments or repairs. This can help improve your system’s efficiency, prolong its lifespan, and ensure that it is running safely and reliably.

Skipping annual maintenance can result in decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and even dangerous conditions such as carbon monoxide leaks. In addition, skipping maintenance can also void your manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you responsible for any repairs or replacements.

Myth #6: HVAC Systems Can Cause Diseases

There is a myth that HVAC systems can cause diseases like Legionnaire’s disease. This myth stems from a true incident that occurred in 1976 when an outbreak of pneumonia occurred among people attending an American Legion convention in Philadelphia. The cause of the outbreak was eventually traced to a bacterium called Legionella pneumophila, which was found in the hotel’s cooling tower.

Although the bacteria were found in the hotel’s HVAC system, it was not the HVAC system itself that caused the outbreak. Rather, the bacteria were able to grow and spread through the system because the cooling tower was not properly maintained.

Despite this, the myth persists that HVAC systems can cause Legionnaire’s disease, and some people believe that they need to regularly clean and disinfect their HVAC systems to prevent the disease. However, this is not necessary as long as the HVAC system is properly maintained and cleaned according to manufacturer recommendations.

Wrapping it Up! 

By debunking these five common HVAC myths, we hope that you have a better understanding of how to maintain and use your HVAC system efficiently and safely. Remember, maintaining your HVAC system is essential for keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills low, so make sure to schedule regular maintenance appointments and follow best practices for using your system. And, if you are hunting for an installation and repair service provider, Diamond Flame Mechanical is here.