At Gahanna Furnace & Air Conditioning, we’re not here to fool anyone. We’ve decided to clear up some common myths about HVAC systems. Let’s face it; there’s a lot of HVAC misinformation floating around, and we get how tough it can be to sift through it all. As your go-to local heating and cooling experts, we’re here to help you sort out fact from fiction and learn the best ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come.
The HVAC Myth about the Thermostat’s Temperature
This first myth catches a lot of people. Have you ever been in a situation where you need to cool (or warm) your home quickly, so you crank the thermostat up or down, hoping it’ll work faster? Well, we hate to break it to you, but that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system function. Most systems push out air at a steady rate, no matter what temperature you set. So, whether you set your air to 50 degrees or 70 degrees, it’ll still blow air at the same rate. In the end, you’re just wasting energy by letting it reach a lower or higher temp than needed.
Bust this myth by just setting your thermostat to your preferred temperature and letting your system do its thing. For an energy-efficient and convenient way to manage your home’s temperature, consider getting a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. This helps because when you’re away from home, you can adjust the temperature with your smartphone, so your home is comfy per your preferences by the time you step in. No more rushing to get your house cooled or warmed “fast!”
The HVAC Myth about the Thermostat’s Placement
What about the thermostat placement? Does it really matter? We’ve seen plenty of DIY jobs where thermostats end up in the worst spots! But yes – thermostat placement is important. Your thermostat’s job is to communicate with the HVAC system, telling it when to release air, distribute it, and regulate it. So, think about it: if your thermostat is near a heat source like a sunlit window, fireplace, heater, or even a drafty spot like an exit door or window, its temperature reading will be off. These incorrect readings will mess with your HVAC system, leading to uneven and irregular temperatures throughout your home.
Bust this myth by placing your thermostat on an interior wall, like in a hallway, and away from heat sources or drafty spots. Even better, if you need a thermostat installed and aren’t experienced, consulting a licensed HVAC technician might be a smart move.
The HVAC Myth about the Air Filters
Now, let’s talk about the air filter myth. If you’ve been with us for a while, you probably know the routine. We always stress the importance of changing your air filters regularly and on time. According to industry standards, you should change your HVAC air filters every 30-90 days. Many people, however, skip this, thinking it’s not necessary. But if you think about it, your HVAC system runs all day, every day, keeping dust and other particles out of your system and home. Air filters are designed to maintain high indoor air quality, which impacts both your system’s health and yours!
Bust this myth by swapping out your air filters every 1-3 months as recommended. Additionally, you can take further control of your home’s indoor air quality by using high-quality HEPA filters.
The HVAC Myth about Preventative Maintenance
We saved this myth for last because, let’s face it, it’s one of the most common ones. But keeping up with your preventative maintenance is super important. Sure, no one can FORCE you to schedule your seasonal maintenance checks, but they really shouldn’t be seen as “optional.” Just like you wouldn’t go years without seeing a doctor, the same goes for your HVAC system. Your AC unit and furnace are complex machines that work hard all year long to keep your house at a comfortable level. So, it makes sense to have a professional check them out regularly to ensure everything runs smoothly and to fine-tune things as needed.
Bust this myth by sticking to your regular maintenance checks as recommended. It’s a good idea to schedule a seasonal maintenance check for your AC unit in the spring or early summer and one for your furnace in the fall. This practice helps extend the life of your system and ensures your units are ready for the upcoming season. Plus, keeping up with these seasonal checks helps maintain the warranty provided by your equipment manufacturer.
Don’t fall for common HVAC myths! Trust the expertise of your local NATE-certified technicians from Gahanna Furnace & Air Conditioning, and stay informed with us about your HVAC system. Remember, some HVAC myths may seem harmless, but they can lead to damage, wasted energy, higher bills, and other costly mistakes that can affect your system in the long run.
Call Gahanna Furnace & Air Conditioning today at (614) 379-3602 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!