You’ve probably heard a myth or two concerning the HVAC system in your Atlantic Beach, FL, home. How can you know which statement is a myth and which is the truth? Unfortunately, the internet is full of HVAC myths that some people still believe. Here are five that you need to ignore:

Myth #1: A Bigger HVAC System is Better

This is wrong. Although it may apply to some other things in life, when it comes to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, bigger is not necessarily better.

If you install equipment that’s too big in a small area, you’ll run into control issues. The system will switch itself on and off frequently, and this will lead to wear and tear and waste energy.

On the other hand, HVAC units that are too small for the rooms they serve will work too hard to maintain the desired room temperature. This will, in turn, lead to faster wear, wastage of electricity and reduced life of the device.

Since it’s so important to install a correctly sized system, seek professional advice when deciding the right size of HVAC equipment for your house. Your contractor should perform a load calculation to determine the cooling capacity you’ll need to achieve and maintain a consistent temperature. This will take into account variables including:

• Total square footage to cool.
• Amount of direct sun exposure.
• Number of people typically at home.
• Type of construction.
• Airflow and ductwork.
• Climate and weather conditions.

Myth #2: You Can Use the Air Filter for a Year Without Replacement

Don’t let increased electricity bills take you by surprise by waiting too long to change your air filters. These filters will rapidly collect dust and dirt in the air, causing insufficient airflow, leading the HVAC system to work harder to accomplish its task. This means there will be an increase in the consumption of electricity.

It’s a good idea to replace or clean your air filters at least every other month. If you can do it every month, that’s even better as it will help your HVAC system work optimally. A clean air filter will ensure smooth airflow and optimal cooling of the air.

Myth #3: By Turning the Thermostat Down, the Room Cools Faster

This is a myth of HVAC systems that we all believed at some point. Have you ever set the thermostat to the lowest temperature to quickly cool the room?

The reality is that cooling can’t accelerate beyond the air conditioner’s range. Turning the thermostat down by 10 degrees wouldn’t speed the cooling any more than if you turned it down by three degrees.

Cooling takes time. Even if you set the thermostat to the lowest possible temperature, your HVAC system will continue to work at the same rate until the indoor temperature reaches the temperature set on the thermostat.

Myth #4: Using an HVAC System Will Cause Sniffling

Many people think that cold air from an HVAC system can give you a cold. This has led people to blame their AC systems when they get the sniffles.

A cold is a viral infection that a drop in temperature can’t cause. If the virus is circulating in your home, you are likely to catch it whether you’re running an air conditioner or not.

Myth #5: You Don’t Need to Service Your HVAC System Regularly

Like any other machine, your HVAC system requires routine maintenance for optimal functioning. Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to frequent breakdowns of your HVAC system.

Don’t believe these myths. Contact Ocean State Air Conditioning & Heating to keep your HVAC system properly serviced by trained service technicians. Our team offers 24-hour comprehensive AC repair, maintenance and commercial HVAC services.

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