There are countless misconceptions surrounding the world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). It is easy to get lost and potentially make unadvised decisions that could negatively impact the efficiency and lifespan of your unit.
Our heating and cooling experts at ACHV Services are here to debunk five common myths to help you make more informed decisions about your air conditioning.
- The Bigger the Unit, The Better
- Closing Vents Boosts System Efficiency
- DIY HVAC Repair will Save Money
- Setting Your Thermostat Lower Will Make Your Home Cool Down Faster
- Your HVAC Doesn’t Need Regular Servicing
Let’s get to debunking these myths!
Myth #1. The Bigger the Unit, the Better
So, you might be thinking that a larger air system will surely heat or cool your home more efficiently, right? Well, contrary to popular belief, this isn’t necessarily the case.
The size of your unit should be just right — not too small, not too large — for the space you need to heat or cool.
Factors like insulation, ceiling height, window size and orientation, and even the local climate can influence the ideal size that you need.
A system that’s too large can short cycle, turning on and off frequently, which decreases its overall efficiency and lifespan. On the other hand, an undersized unit will struggle to achieve the desired temperature, leading to continuous operation and higher energy consumption.
This also results in a shortened system lifespan.
An HVAC professional, like ours at ACHV Services, will be able to conduct a thorough evaluation of your home and determine the appropriate unit size based on these factors.
Myth #2. Closing Vents Boosts System Efficiency
Surprisingly, experts don’t recommend this common practice, because air conditioning systems function best when there’s unrestricted airflow.
Shutting vents around your house causes pressure to build up within the system, making it work harder and potentially causing long-term damage. In other words, closing vents might save some energy in the short term, but in the long run, it might lead to costly repairs!
Myth #3. DIY HVAC Repair Will Save Money
It’s a tempting idea, isn’t it? If your unit experiences trouble, why not roll up your sleeves and do a bit of DIY repair to save the extra cash expenditure, right?
Wrong! These systems are complex.
They are designed and fine-tuned by skilled professionals like ours at ACHV Services. Unless you’re one of these individuals, attempting repair work yourself could lead to more damage than good. These repairs are not something to be taken lightly due to safety concerns.
From electrical shocks to gas leaks, many risks come with HVAC repair that should only be managed by trained technicians.
Plus, when you are doing DIY repairs, there is no warranty or guarantee that the issue won’t recur. If something goes wrong, you’ll be wholly responsible for the system and for fixing the new problems. Don’t DIY, call us instead!
Myth #4. Setting Your Thermostat Lower Will Make Your Home Cool Down Faster
Setting your thermostat to a lower setting will not accelerate the cooling process. Your AC works at a constant speed, aiming for your set temperature until it is achieved.
Setting the temperature lower means the system will keep working for a longer period, not that it’s working harder or faster. Instead, set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature—not too cold, not too hot. It’s about finding balance.
When it comes to energy conservation and cost-effectiveness, every degree matters.
Avoid dramatic swings in temperature settings and consider investing in a programmable thermostat to help manage your energy usage.
So, the next time you’re tempted to turn the dial way down in hopes of cooling your home faster, remember patience is a virtue — and in this case, an energy and money saver too!
Myth #5. Your HVAC System Doesn’t Need Regular Servicing
Any mechanical system needs routine maintenance to remain operational and efficient.
Regular servicing is equal to routine oil changes for your car or regular check-ups for your health. It ensures the system functions optimally, consuming minimal energy and prolonging its lifespan.
The benefits of routine servicing include:
- Energy efficiency
- Improved air quality
- Lengthened system lifespan
- Cost savings from prevented repairs
Well-maintained air conditioning delivers cleaner and healthier air, promoting not just comfort but also well-being. It’s also worth noting that regular preventive maintenance can often catch potential issues early on, preventing expensive repairs or system replacements in the future.
Read More>> Should You Turn Off the AC When You Leave Your House?
AC Unit Popular Beliefs
The world of HVAC is filled with misconceptions that can lead to confusion and unnecessary expenses.
However, after you consult with our experts in the field, it is evident that many common myths about these systems are debunked.
Understanding that closing vents can disrupt airflow, that a bigger HVAC system is not always better, that regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs, and that DIY repairs are never the answer will help homeowners make informed decisions about their heating and cooling needs.
Call our HVAC specialists at ACHV Services today at (727) 453-2432 or (813) 917-2982 for service anywhere in Tampa Bay. We are here to help you make the most of your air conditioning system, perform repairs and maintenance, and answer any questions you may have!
