At Fairborn Heating & Cooling, our goal is to provide accurate and reliable information about HVAC systems. We recognize that there is a significant amount of misinformation circulating, making it challenging to discern fact from fiction. As your experienced local heating and cooling specialists, we are dedicated to clarifying common HVAC myths and guiding you through the best practices to ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently for years to come.
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE TEMPERATURE SETTING MYTH?
This first myth is quite common. Have you ever been in a situation where you urgently need to cool (or warm) your home quickly and raise the thermostat setting higher, hoping it will work faster? Unfortunately, that’s not how your thermostat and HVAC system function. Most systems distribute air at a consistent rate regardless of the temperature setting. This means that whether you set your air to 50 degrees or 70 degrees, it will still dispense air at the same rate. Ultimately, you are only wasting energy by allowing it to reach a lower or higher setting than necessary.
Counter this myth by simply setting your thermostat at your desired temperature. Then, sit back and let your system do its part at its own rate. If you are looking for a more energy-efficient and convenient way to stay on top of the temperature within your home, then consider installing a smart thermostat if you don’t have one already. If you are away from your home, you will be able to change the temperature with the convenience of your smartphone before you even step back into your home. This will eliminate the need for you to get your home cooled/warmed “fast”!
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE THERMOSTAT PLACEMENT MYTH?
What about the placement of the thermostat? Does it matter? Indeed, it does. We have encountered numerous DIY projects where the thermostat was positioned in suboptimal locations. Proper thermostat placement is crucial. The thermostat’s role is to communicate with the HVAC system, indicating when to release air, distribute it, and regulate the temperature. Consider this: if the thermostat is placed near a heat source such as a window with direct sunlight, a fireplace, a heater, or even a drafty area like an exit door or window, its temperature reading will be compromised, resulting in inaccurate measurements. These inaccuracies can lead to miscommunication with the HVAC system, causing irregular and uneven temperatures throughout your home.
Dispel this myth by ensuring your thermostat is installed on an interior wall, such as a hallway, and kept away from heat sources or drafty areas. Furthermore, if you require a thermostat installation and lack experience in this domain, it is advisable to consult a licensed HVAC technician.
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE AIR FILTER MYTH?
Now, addressing the air filter misconception: If you have been our customer for a long time, you are likely familiar with our protocol. We consistently emphasize the significance of regularly and timely replacing your air filters. According to industry standards, HVAC air filters should be changed every 30-60 days. Many individuals, however, overlook this, believing frequent replacements are unnecessary. Consider that your HVAC system operates continuously throughout the week. Its function is to prevent dust and other airborne particles from infiltrating both your HVAC system and your home. Air filters are designed to maintain high indoor air quality, which directly impacts the health of your system and you.
You should dispel this myth by replacing your air filters every 1-3 months as recommended. Additionally, you can enhance your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) by using high-quality HEPA air filters.
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE MYTH?
We saved this myth for last because it is one of the most common. It is extremely important to keep up with your preventative maintenance. While no one can compel you to schedule your seasonal maintenance checks, they should not be considered “optional.” Just as you wouldn’t go years without seeing a healthcare professional, the same applies to your HVAC system. Both your AC unit and furnace are complex pieces of machinery that are used continuously to keep you and your family comfortable. Thus, it is prudent to have them inspected by a professional regularly to ensure everything is functioning smoothly and to perform necessary adjustments.
Counter this misconception by adhering to the recommended regular maintenance checks. It is prudent to schedule a seasonal maintenance inspection for your AC unit during the spring or early summer and for your furnace in the fall. This practice not only extends the longevity of your system but also ensures your units are adequately prepared for the upcoming season. Furthermore, maintaining these seasonal checks helps uphold the validity of the warranty provided by your equipment manufacturer.
Do not let yourself be misled by common HVAC myths. You can trust in the expertise of your local NATE-certified technicians from Fairborn Heating & Cooling and stay informed about your HVAC system through us. Remember, while some HVAC myths may appear harmless, they can lead to damage, wasted energy, higher bills, and other costly mistakes that can affect your HVAC system in the long term.
Call Fairborn Heating & Cooling today at (937) 404-2632 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
