Some of the HVAC advice out there that’s taken to be true is actually false. Following HVAC misconceptions can end up raising your energy bills, creating the need for unnecessary repairs, and shortening your HVAC system’s life span. Let’s help you out by listing some of the common misconceptions that homeowners labor under in a bid to get the best HVAC performance in the spring and summer.
1. Interior door and register closure is an effective way of controlling the temperature.
Closing doors and blocking off some registers can cause airflow restrictions, which decrease your AC system’s efficiency. The best way to control the temperature for every room individually is with a zoning system.
2. When you’re away, leaving your air conditioner on a higher setting is always more efficient.
Setting the temperature way high when you’re away and then turning it back once you get home isn’t effective. As your home gets hotter, you create a bigger load for your air conditioner to overcome before it dehumidifies the air and cools your home back to your ideal comfort levels.
3. You don’t have to clean your outdoor unit.
It doesn’t take much debris to restrict airflow through your AC coils, which reduces efficiency. Spray down the unit with a hose to blow out all the accumulated debris. Additionally, get rid of any plants, shrubs, and debris that are too close to the unit.
4. You don’t have to change your filters frequently.
This could be true depending on factors like whether or not you own pets and how big your home is. However, some take it to mean that they shouldn’t check their filters very often. Make sure you check your filter regularly — an average of every 30 days — and change it if it’s filling up.
5. You can fix your AC unit on your own.
Statements like this and “professional maintenance is a sales gimmick” are only going to put your system at risk of needing costly repairs in the future. Unless you’ve been professionally trained, leave repairs and annual routine inspection to the pros.
Listening to HVAC misconceptions will prevent your air conditioner from running efficiently and lasting for years, so don’t be afraid to seek expert advice from a licensed contractor. If you need help with any heating or cooling issue in the Dayton area, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services.