Myths about AC systems are everywhere.
In fact, the sheer volume of misinformation about AC systems never ceases to amaze us.
But we won’t just stand here, being amazed, when we know that some of these myths can cost money, damage your system, or make your home more uncomfortable.
Instead, we’re going to debunk them!
Myth: You should close vents in unused rooms.
People believe they can save money by closing vents in unused rooms.
In reality, this is a massive mistake. Your AC unit doesn’t change the amount of air it produces. And any technician worth their salt has designed the system to match your home size.
What you’re actually doing when you close vents is adding pressure to the system.
This means your system has to work harder to cool your home, resulting in the following:
- Higher energy bills.
- Frozen condenser coils.
- Other AC system breakdowns.
What you really want is to cool your home as efficiently as possible. You can do this by keeping your system in great repair, by changing your air filters regularly, and by working with your HVAC pro to ensure the system is the right size for your home.
Myth: Bigger is better.
Sorry: an oversized AC system won’t cool your house faster, more efficiently, or better.
They say everything is bigger in Texas, but that doesn’t mean everything should be. Oversize units waste enormous amounts of energy, and often turn off and turn back on again before they can cool the entire space. They’re also more expensive.
Here are a few negative outcomes of oversize systems.
- Higher electricity bills
- Higher indoor humidity
- Warm spots in your home.
As mentioned, it’s important to work with your HVAC professional to ensure the system is the right size for your home.
Myth: You should turn off the AC when you leave your house.
In Texas, AC units play a vital role in humidity and mold control.
Bugs also like humid, warm environments, so they play a vital role in keeping bugs out of your house, too.
Which means if you want to keep your home free from mold and mildew, you need to leave your system running at all times. You can turn the temperature up a little bit when you leave if you’d like to save some money.
Besides, who wants to return home to a stifling hot house after traveling?
Myth: You don’t have to change your air filters if you dust and vacuum.
Sorry, no…air filters are actually designed to work in tandem with dusting and vacuuming.
You need to take all three steps if you want to ensure your system runs properly, and if you want to ensure proper indoor air quality. Filters will need to be changed according to your manufacturer’s schedule pretty much no matter what.
That’s every month, every three months, or every six months depending on the type of AC you use and the types of filters it takes.
Myth: New units don’t need tune-ups.
You should sign up for a system maintenance plan the minute you invest in a new unit.
The sooner you start getting tune-ups, the better. Tune-ups will keep your system acting “like new” as long as possible. Tune-ups extend the life of your system, too.
Which would you rather have?
A system that lasts ten years or a system that lasts 25?
Get Help With Your HVAC System Today
AC systems can seem complicated, but we’re here to help.
Have questions? Want to schedule a tune-up? Need a repair right now?
Contact us to get the help you need now.
