The Truth of These 8 Myths About HVAC

Have you fallen for these infamous HVAC myths? Debunk the misconceptions about your HVAC system to conserve energy and enhance home comfort.

Nothing is more important to maintaining a comfortable home environment than your HVAC system. However, many homeowners are misled by common HVAC myths that leave you with inefficient performance, steeper costs and comfort problems. We’re here to correct these misconceptions to ensure your HVAC system runs as efficiently as possible.

Myth 1: You Only Need to Change the HVAC Filter Once a Year

Despite what some think, changing your filter annually is rarely enough to maintain good air quality. This time frame is only appropriate if you have a basic filter, no pets, no allergies and a small household size. If not, you should replace the filter every 30 to 90 days according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Myth 2: It Doesn’t Matter Where the Thermostat Is

In reality, your thermostat’s location is very important for an effective HVAC system. The thermostat should be installed away from hot sunlight, drafts and any other sources of heat as well as the windows and doors. The ideal placement is on an interior wall properly gauge the daily indoor temperature.

Myth 3: Routine HVAC Maintenance Is Unnecessary

Regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance is a budget-friendly and consistent expense that saves money by offering:

  • Improved efficiency: A regular schedule for maintenance the easiest way to keep your system running at peak efficiency, lowering energy use and your utility bills.
  • Reduced repair needs: During a maintenance visit, your technician will find and resolve small problems like a broken bolt or blocked air filters before they result in widespread damage. A future-minded approach prevents unexpected breakdowns and the associated repair costs.
  • Longer system life span: Consistent upkeep aids your HVAC system in running smoothly, extending its life by some time to prevent premature replacement costs.

Myth 4: A High-Efficiency HVAC System Is All It Takes to Lower Energy Costs

While it’s a strong start, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system is genuinely maximize efficiency and minimize energy costs, you’ll need to implement a few other strategies:

  • Ensure proper sizing and installation: Your HVAC unit must be installed and sized correctly to avoid impacting the system’s efficiency and increased energy costs.
  • Enhance the amount of insulation and sealing in your house: Boosting insulation levels and tightening the seal of windows and doors around the house keeps the AC from getting out. Steps like enhancing attic insulation, sealing cracks in walls, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors help maintain consistent temperatures and less energy waste.
  • Install a programmable thermostat: This newer HVAC accessory allows you to create settings for energy-saving temperatures based on your schedule. Program your smart thermostat with automatic setbacks to minimize power use while you’re in bed or on vacation.
  • Boost air circulation: Keep all supply and return vent openings clear and use ceiling fans to circulate more air throughout your home. This helps evenly spread HVAC more uniformly for stable comfort and efficiency.

Myth 5: Duct Tape Is Effective for Sealing Air Ducts

Plenty of people believe this misconception since duct tape has a very similar name to your ductwork. Unfortunately,  it’s not designed to withstand the temperature variations and air pressure inside HVAC systems, making it a bad choice for sealing duct leaks. Alternatively, use specially made mastic or aluminum foil tape for more effective results.

Myth 6: Square Footage Is the Only Factor Used to Size an HVAC System

Quite the opposite, sizing the HVAC system correctly is dependent on a detailed assessment that takes into account much more than the size of the home itself. Here are other things an experienced heating and cooling technician should consider when choosing the appropriate size of HVAC system:

  • The local climate
  • The size and layout of your windows
  • The degree of your home’s insulation
  • Air infiltration rates
  • Home orientation
  • The size of your household
  • The amount of heat your home collects over time

Myth 7: Opting for High Efficiency HVAC Air Filters Is Always the Right Choice

Perhaps you’ve heard about the wonders of HEPA filters and wish to put one in your HVAC system. However, while these high-efficiency air filters filter out more contaminants, they also limit how much air can flow through. It’s important to use a filter that’s compatible with your HVAC system to avoid hurting efficiency and putting too much stress on it. In many cases, this is easiest with a mid-range pleated or electrostatic filter. Your Expert technician can help you choose wisely.

Myth 8: I Don’t Need to Know How My HVAC System Works; That’s What My Technician Is For

You shouldn’t have to be a HVAC Expert to use heating and cooling, but learning the basics is quite helpful. A little knowledge goes a long way toward ensuring your HVAC system’s peak performance, diagnosing issues and making informed decisions with your technician.

Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

With these common HVAC myths cleared up, you’re ready to make the most of your heating and cooling system. For additional advice and insights, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians are ready to address your questions and help you achieve a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. Get in touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for more information.

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >
Offer

10% OFF FOR ACTIVE DUTY OR VETERANS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

10% OFF Any Product or Service*
For all Active-Duty, Retired, and Veteran Military Personnel 

  • It’s our way of thanking you for your courage, dedication, and sacrifice to protect our freedom
  • All worked performed by licensed experts, and backed by a written, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Service Experts is proud to be affiliated with Military Makeover and Hiring Our Heroes

print
Offer

THREE LIMITED-TIME WAYS TO SAVE WITH AN ADVANTAGE PROGRAM BUNDLE

  • Bundle two HVAC systems through the Advantage Program and save $20 a month!
  • Bundle an HVAC and a Water Heater or Water Treatment System through the Advantage Program and save $15 a month!
  • Bundle a Water Heater a Water Treatment System or Indoor Air Quality through the Advantage Program and save $10 a month!

print

© 2025 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.

Chat with a Service Experts Professional