A myth is defined as a fictitious or false belief that many people hold. And there are three HVAC myths that persist today. This blog will discuss these common myths and explain why they exist. This information can help steer you in the right direction about your current or future HVAC decisions as well.
Number 1: The bigger the AC unit, the better.
This is a popular myth that simply is not accurate. The size of your AC matters, and this does not always mean bigger. You can expect a larger AC unit to cool a space quicker, but the square footage of your home must be considered to avoid uneven cooling, increased humidity, and the breakdown of your AC system. If an AC unit is too big, the air conditioner may stop functioning due to overworking, as it turns off and on more frequently from rapid cooling. The increased humidity that occurs when the unit shuts off too quickly can cause other issues in your home as well. Depending on your home’s total square footage, sometimes a smaller size unit will work more in your favor than an overly large system.
Number 2: The type of air filter you buy does not matter.
This myth could not be further from the truth. There are many factors to consider when purchasing your home’s air filters. For example, the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of a filter has to be compatible with your system. The higher MERV rating a filter has, the more debris it will capture within your home to improve air quality. If you have an AC system with less air flow however, that means a filter with too high of a MERV rating can damage the system’s performance. Additionally, the sizes of air filters vary as well; the right size filter will ensure that your system operates with proper air flow.
Number 3: The location of your thermostat does not matter.
Though this is a myth that may seem harmless, there absolutely has to be a correct placement of your thermostat. Having a thermostat located too close to your vents, heat sources, or too low on the wall can affect the sensors of your system or damage its operation. Your home’s temperature may measure inaccurately if the thermostat is in a poor location, leading to false readings from your system. This can potentially cause wear and tear to your air conditioner while increasing energy consumption.
Along with these three myths, many others exist; further knowledge in the HVAC field sheds light on just why you should not believe them. Believing falsities concerning tedious work, such as HVAC, can lead to harmful effects on your AC system. With these truths, we hope that they help you become more observant and aware of decisions concerning your airflow and the air conditioner within your home.
~Nevaonna Alfred