HVAC Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

When it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, misinformation can lead to inefficiencies, higher costs, and the underperformance of your climate control solutions at home or at work. Let's debunk some of the most prevalent HVAC myths to ensure you're informed and prepared to make the best decisions for your comfort and pocketbook.

Myth 1: Bigger HVAC Units Are Always Better

Fact: An oversized HVAC system doesn't equate to better performance. In fact, a unit that's too large for your space can result in frequent on-and-off cycling, leading to inefficiency and increased wear and tear on the system. It's crucial to size your HVAC unit correctly based on the square footage of your space, insulation levels, and other factors to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Myth 2: Cranking Up the Thermostat Heats/Cools the Space Faster

Fact: The thermostat setting doesn't affect the speed at which your home reaches the desired temperature. Setting the thermostat to a higher or lower temperature than necessary will only make the system work longer, not quicker. It's more efficient to set the thermostat to your desired comfortable temperature and allow the system to maintain it steadily.

Myth 3: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

Fact: Closing vents can actually increase energy consumption and strain your HVAC system. Modern HVAC systems are designed for the specific layout of your home. Blocking vents disrupts the intended airflow, causing imbalances and making the system work harder to distribute air. This can reduce efficiency and lead to more maintenance issues and a shorter lifespan of your equipment.

Myth 4: Routine Maintenance Isn't Necessary If the System Is Running Fine

Fact: Preventive maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency. Just as your car needs regular oil changes, your HVAC system requires periodic check-ups to catch potential issues early, ensuring it operates effectively and extends its service life.

Myth 5: Filter Changes Can Be Ignored for Months

Fact: Regularly changing or cleaning your HVAC filter is paramount to system health. A dirty filter restricts air flow, forcing the system to work harder, which can lead to increased energy costs and potential system failures. Generally, filters should be checked monthly and changed at least every 90 days—or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.

Myth 6: Fans Keep Rooms Cooler

Fact: Fans cool people, not rooms. Fans circulate air, which can increase the sensation of cooling on our skin by aiding in the evaporation of sweat. However, fans do not reduce the room's temperature. When you leave a room, turn off the fan to save energy.

Myth 7: Energy Efficient HVAC Systems Automatically Reduce Bills

Fact: While energy-efficient systems are designed to use less energy, the actual cost savings depend on several factors. Proper installation, correct sizing, and regular maintenance play significant roles in the true efficiency and cost-effectiveness of an HVAC system. Simply installing a high-efficiency unit without addressing these factors won't guarantee lower bills.

Myth 8: If It's Not Broken, Don't Fix It

Fact: Waiting for your system to break down before calling a professional can result in higher repair costs and uncomfortable periods without climate control. Proactive maintenance can identify small issues before they become big problems, saving money and inconvenience in the long run.

By understanding the facts about your HVAC system, you can optimize its performance and enjoy a comfortable, cost-effective environment. If you have further questions or need professional advice, reach out to a trusted HVAC expert. Don't let myths undermine the comfort and efficiency of your home or office!.

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Is Ductwork Included?

By Loren Crabtree • March 25, 2025

Why You Might Not Change the Ductwork When Replacing Your HVAC System When it comes time to replace your HVAC system, a question that frequently arises is whether the existing ductwork also needs to be replaced. Surprisingly, the answer isn't always a resounding yes. While it might seem logical to overhaul everything at once for efficiency's sake, several compelling reasons might sway your decision to retain the existing ductwork. Here's why: 1. Condition of Existing Ductwork The primary consideration is the condition of your current ductwork. If it's in good shape, free from leaks, and not showing signs of significant wear like corrosion or damage, it can often remain in place. Quality ductwork can last decades if properly installed and maintained, meaning it might outlast an HVAC unit itself. 2. Cost Efficiency Replacing ductwork is an extensive and sometimes invasive process that can significantly add to the overall cost of HVAC system replacement. If the current ductwork is still functional and efficient, keeping it can save you a substantial amount of money and time. It's all about balancing the cost versus benefits, and if the ductwork isn't contributing to energy loss or performance issues, the expenditure might not be justified. 3. Compatibility and Sizing In many cases, the existing ductwork is perfectly compatible with the new HVAC unit. Proper sizing is critical for the efficiency of the HVAC system — if the ducts were correctly sized for the old unit, and the new unit is of a similar size and capacity, there's often no need for adjustment. However, significant changes in the size or type of HVAC system could warrant a reassessment and potential replacement of the ductwork. 4. Minimal Performance Gains The performance boost from replacing ductwork might not be as significant as expected, particularly if your existing ducts are in good condition. The efficiency and functionality of your HVAC system depend largely on the unit itself, proper installation, and regular maintenance. While new ductwork can offer improvements, especially if the old system had issues, the marginal gains might not always justify the cost for systems already operating efficiently. 5. Environmental Considerations Retaining existing ductwork can also be a more environmentally friendly option. By not replacing the ducts, you're reducing waste and the demand for new materials. This approach aligns with the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling, contributing to a lower environmental impact. Final Thoughts Deciding not to replace the ductwork during an HVAC system upgrade isn't about cutting corners; it's about making an informed choice based on the condition, compatibility, and the potential cost and environmental impact. However, it's crucial to have your current system evaluated by a professional to ensure that keeping the existing ductwork is the best decision for your home's comfort and efficiency. Regular inspections and maintenance will keep your HVAC system, and its ductwork running smoothly for years to come, ensuring that when the time for replacement comes, you'll be ready to make the best choice for your home.

What to Look for in a Heating and Air Company Near You

By Loren Crabtree • March 11, 2025

What to Look for in a Heating and Air Company Near Me

Why does my air conditioner run in the winter?

By Loren Crabtree • February 25, 2025

Why Does My Air Conditioner Run in the Winter? Discovering that your air conditioner is running during the colder months can be a surprising and confusing experience. However, there are legitimate reasons for this occurrence, some of which are by design and others that might indicate a need for maintenance. Understanding why this happens can ease your concerns and help ensure that your HVAC system is functioning as efficiently as possible, even when the mercury drops. 1. Heat Pump Operation The most common reason your air conditioner seems to be active in winter is if you have a heat pump system. Heat pumps are designed to cool your home in the summer and heat it in the winter, using the outdoor unit in both operations. In heating mode, the system reverses the flow of refrigerant, extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it indoors. So, if your "air conditioner" is running in the winter, it's likely that it's actually your heat pump operating in its heating mode. 2. Defrost Mode In winter, the outdoor unit of a heat pump can accumulate frost, which reduces its efficiency in heating mode. To combat this, heat pumps are equipped with a defrost cycle. During this cycle, it may appear that your air conditioning is running since the system temporarily reverses back to cooling mode to generate warm air to melt the frost on the outdoor unit. This is a normal and necessary function of a heat pump in colder weather. 3. Thermostat Settings Occasionally, the reason your air conditioning runs in winter could be due to incorrect thermostat settings. If your thermostat is set to "cool" instead of "heat" or "auto," your air conditioning system will activate, regardless of the outside temperature. This is a simple fix but one that can significantly affect comfort and energy bills. 4. Integrated HVAC Systems Some modern HVAC systems integrate both air conditioning and heating into a single unit, sharing interior components like air handlers and ductwork. In these systems, even when in heating mode, parts of your air conditioning system may still operate to circulate air throughout your home. This doesn’t necessarily mean the cooling function is active, but rather that the system uses the blower to distribute warm air. 5. Malfunction or System Error If none of the above reasons apply, your AC running in winter could suggest a malfunction. This could be due to a variety of issues like a faulty thermostat, a stuck reversing valve (in heat pumps), or incorrect wiring. In such cases, it's essential to contact an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the problem to prevent potential damage or inefficiency. Understanding and Addressing the Issue Noticing your air conditioner running in winter isn’t always cause for immediate concern. Identifying the reason is the first step towards ensuring your system's efficiency and your home's comfort. Regular maintenance and familiarizing yourself with your HVAC system can help mitigate unexpected surprises and ensure that your system serves you well, regardless of the season. If in doubt, consulting with an HVAC professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.