5 Common Residential Heating and Cooling Myths

As homeowners, we all want to maintain a comfortable living environment while also trying to save on our energy bills. But with our over 25 years of professional HVAC experience, we’ve found that many people believe in some myths when it comes to their residential HVAC system. Read below to see if you’ve unknowingly fell prey to a common heating and cooling myth!

Myth 1: Smart Thermostats Don't Always Save Money During Summer Months

Many homeowners believe that investing in a smart thermostat will automatically lead to substantial savings on their cooling bills during the hot summer months. While it's true that smart thermostats offer advanced features and potential energy savings, they are only as effective as the way they are used.

Cost Savings Tip:

The effectiveness of smart thermostats depends on how homeowners utilize their advanced features. If users don't take advantage of scheduling, geofencing, or learning capabilities, the thermostat won't optimize energy usage. Relying on default settings or not adjusting the thermostat to their specific comfort needs can result in missed energy-saving opportunities.

Myth 2: Maintenance and Tune-Ups are a Waste

While it's true that maintenance comes with an upfront cost, neglecting regular tune-ups can lead to inefficiencies, system malfunctions, and potential breakdowns. A poorly maintained HVAC system can consume more energy, work harder to maintain desired temperatures, and ultimately lead to increased energy bills.

Cost Savings Tip:

On the other hand, professional maintenance ensures that the system runs at its peak efficiency, identifying and addressing minor issues before they escalate into major, costly repairs. Well-maintained HVAC systems not only consume less energy but also have a longer lifespan, delaying the need for premature replacements, which can be a significant cost-saving advantage.

The key is finding HVAC professionals that have the knowledge and resources to keep your system running at peak performance, like those at Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning. Check out our highly reviewed maintenance plan here.

Myth 3: Closing Off Room Registers Saves You Money

Modern HVAC systems are designed to balance airflow throughout the home. When homeowners close off registers in certain rooms, it disrupts this balance, creating pressure imbalances within the ductwork and the system. The HVAC system becomes less efficient, leading to increased energy consumption and potential strain on the system.

Cost Savings Tip:

Maintain open registers to ensure balanced airflow, promoting optimal system performance and energy efficiency.

Myth 4: It's Best to Always Leave Your Fan on Auto Fan Position

There's a common belief that leaving the HVAC fan on the "Auto" position is more energy-efficient than keeping it running continuously. This might be because people often think that running the fan all the time will use up more electricity, resulting in higher energy bills.

In reality, running the fan continuously can help in better air filtration and balanced temperatures throughout the home, ultimately leading to improved energy efficiency.

Cost Savings Tip:

Try running your system on the “Always On” function to continuously improve air circulation and filtration. This will ensure consistent temperatures throughout the home and help to reduce hot or cold spots.

Myth 5: Filters Don't Need to Be Changed Regularly

Some homeowners overlook the importance of regularly changing HVAC filters, assuming that it won't significantly impact their system's performance. And we get it, we all have busy schedules and understand how easy it can be to forget to change air filters.

But as we’ve seen, running your system with a dirty air filter will drastically reduce your system’s efficiency and increase the chance of costly repairs as the months and years go by.

Cost Savings Tip:

Regularly change your air filters according to your manufacturer’s instructions. This will maintain optimal airflow, keep your HVAC system operating efficiently, and avoid costly repairs caused by poor maintenance. You will save money in the long run.

We hope we’ve been able to debunk some myths for you so that your house can stay cool and you can reduce your energy bill through smart moves with your HVAC system.

Viccarone Heating and Air Conditioning is committed to your comfort and has serviced thousands of units here in Northeast Ohio. If you have any questions about your system, give our service number a call at (440) 748-6100.

Reach out today and we’ll help you keep your ENTIRE home cool this summer!

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