HVAC Myths and Misconceptions

01/15/2024

There’s a lot of incorrect information about HVAC floating around out there. If you’re not careful, these misconceptions can negatively impact your system, the comfort of your home, and your wallet. Luckily, Chancey & Reynolds is here to set the record straight. We collected the most common HVAC myths our certified technicians encounter when servicing our customers’ heating and cooling systems.

women feeling frustrated by HVAC with hand against forehead

MYTH: Routine HVAC maintenance isn’t necessary.

FACT: Regular professional maintenance from certified HVAC technicians like Chancey & Reynolds is essential to caring for your heating and cooling system. Scheduled care proactively prevents potential damage, increases the lifespan of your HVAC system, and saves you money in the long run.

MYTH: Bigger is better.

FACT: An HVAC system that’s too small won’t effectively cool or heat your home, but an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, leading to inefficiency, humid indoor air, and higher energy bills. Your space demands a tailored HVAC solution and regular maintenance from knowledgeable pros. To determine the correct size system for your space, our team evaluates the square footage of your space, the climate in your region, and the level of insulation in your home.

MYTH: You only have to change your filter once a year.

FACT: The filter in your HVAC system is the first line of defense against dirt and dust. If your filter is dirty, it will make your system work harder because the air won’t flow smoothly. That’s why you need to change it regularly. Most households should replace their filters every six weeks. But if you have someone in your home with allergies or asthma, or you have pets, you should change it every month. This will help your system work better and improve your family’s respiratory health. Check out our air filter replacement guide!

MYTH: Only run your system when you need it.

FACT: Systems utilizing variable speed technology run more efficiently at lower, steady speeds rather than being cranked on/off for immediate temperature control. If you’re worried about the costs of running your system when you don’t need it, a smart thermostat can help you avoid heating and cooling your home when you’re away.

MYTH: The thermostat placement doesn’t matter. 

FACT: Proper placement of your thermostat can greatly improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. Placing too close to vents, radiators, or windows can cause the system to turn off prematurely or continue running too long. Installing the thermostat on an interior wall, away from direct sunlight, is recommended. Also, make sure it is not near any windows or major appliances in the kitchen.

MYTH: HVAC systems recycle dirty air.

FACT: Your HVAC system keeps the indoor air clean by filtering out dust, allergens, and pollutants. But if you don’t take care of it, it can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other nasty stuff that can harm your health. Get your system checked and cleaned regularly to ensure that your family breathes clean and healthy indoor air. For added air quality control, you can use air filters with higher MERV ratings or look into additional indoor air systems like purification systems or humidity control solutions!

MYTH: Closed vents save money.

FACT: A long-standing HVAC myth is that closing vents in unoccupied areas of the home is an effective way to save money on heating and cooling. Though it makes sense in theory, this is far from the truth. Closing the vents in your home costs you more money in the long run as it can damage vital components of your HVAC system. Even if you close your vents, the air still circulates through your ducts. The increased pressure caused by closed air vents can damage your ductwork and overwork your system’s blower fan. It’s best to leave all the vents in your home open.

Trust the Pros

At the end of the day, the most critical factor is finding a reliable HVAC service provider you can trust to help you make decisions about repairs and replacements. The HVAC professionals at Chancey & Reynolds are certified and experienced with all brands, models, and types of heating and cooling systems. Your space demands a tailored HVAC solution and regular maintenance from knowledgeable technicians.

Our customers across Knoxville and Lenoir City have trusted Chancey & Reynolds with their HVAC needs for more than 40 years. We thoroughly evaluate your home’s design to recommend the best-fitting systems. We even offer free estimates and convenient financing options for those who qualify, so you don’t have to worry about major upfront costs. Get in touch today!

Knoxville Office • (865) 525-5076

Lenoir City Office • (865) 986-3883