Learn the Truth About Your HVAC System Before it’s Time for an AC Tune-Up.

06/07/22

After being in the business for a number of years, we’ve heard almost every myth and misconception there is about air conditioners. After talking to our techs, we put together a list of the most common AC misunderstandings, and the actual truth. Take a second to read through these before your next AC tune-up.

Myth: A Larger HVAC System Means More Power

In this case, bigger does not mean better. In fact, a system that’s too large won’t properly cool your home. It doesn’t matter how much BTU your system has, or if it’s the largest on block; what matters is the size of your home.

We determine the size of your HVAC system by how large your home is and how much needs to be cooled. A system that’s too large will short cycle. Meaning it will turn on for a short period of time and turn off again. This is a problem because the constant start and stop puts too much pressure on the compressor.

Myth: The Thermostat Can Go Anywhere

We’ve seen too many people think they can put a thermostat anywhere on the wall and call it a day. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.

The thermostat regulates the temperature in your entire home, meaning if the thermostat itself gets too hot or too cold, it could change the temperature for your whole home. The first thing to be sure of is that the thermostat is not in direct sunlight.

When the thermostat is in direct sunlight, heat from the sun will trick it into thinking the house is warmer than it actually is. This could disrupt the flow in your home. Another thing to keep in mind is that the thermostat should not be close to the kitchen or dryer. These areas can also make the thermostat think your home is warmer than it really is.

It’s just as important to make sure the thermostat isn’t in a place that’s too drafty. If there are drafts or cold spots near the thermostat, it will send a signal to your HVAC system that your home needs to be warmed up.

Myth: We Only Use the Furnace During the Winter

Did you know, heating and cooling systems use the same equipment, no matter the season! This comes as a surprise to many of our Cincinnati homeowners. Believe it or not, you use your furnace all summer long.

Without the furnace, there is no cooling system. Though the condenser is used for cooling only, the furnace is used all year round. When air travels into the furnace, it goes over a set of cooling coils.

These coils pull heat from the air, then send the treated air back into your home. The heat pulled from your air is transferred to the condenser where it is released into the atmosphere.

This is one of the many reasons we stress the importance of regular tune-ups for your HVAC system.

Myth: Setting the Thermostat Lower Means the Home will Cool Faster

It’s a big myth that setting the temperature lower on the thermostat will cool your home faster. No matter where you set the thermostat, an HVAC system can only cool a certain amount of air at a time. Meaning that no matter where you set the thermostat, it won’t change how fast or slow your home cools.

If we’re really being truthful, setting the thermostat very low, then changing the temperature to something higher can raise your energy bills. It also can do damage to your system. Instead, set the temperature to something reasonable and regulate temperatures throughout the day by opening windows or using blackout curtains.

Myth: Closing Vents Saves Money

There’s been a rumor floating around that blocking off air vents in unused rooms can save on energy bills. We’re here to tell you that doing this actually costs you more money.

Modern AC systems are zoned based on the size of your home. The system makes enough air for each zone. If a zone were blocked off, by having a closed vent, then the system has already made that air with nowhere for it to go.

This trapped air can put unnecessary pressure on your furnace and ductwork, which could lead to costly repairs.

Myth: You Only Need an AC Tune-Up When the System Isn’t Working

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is to schedule two tune-ups per year. Once in the spring before it starts to get hot and muggy and once in the fall before temperatures drop.

Regular tune-ups ensure your system is clean, healthy, and working at peak efficiency. Also, regular tune-ups mean our expert technicians can catch small problems before they become big, costly issues.

Need to book an AC tune-up in Cincinnati? Contact the HVAC professionals at Help and enjoy a comfortable home all year long.

Posted in: Air Conditioning