Misconceptions About Your HVAC System

Feb 5, 2020 | Furnace, Heating

It’s relatively easy to understand the basics of how an HVAC system works. Unfortunately, it’s also easy to become confused by all the incorrect information that’s available. These misconceptions can end up causing serious problems for your HVAC system and your home if you put the wrong thing into practice. You can always get accurate and helpful information from the professionals at Xenia Heating & Air in Xenia, Ohio. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with any information or assistance you need when it comes to your HVAC system. 

 

Misconceptions About HVAC Systems for Homeowners in Xenia, Ohio 

Keeping Outside Doors Closed Will Not Control the Temperatures in Your Home 

HVAC systems are created and programmed to work to heat or cool a specified area based on square footage. Keeping outside doors closed, or opened, will have no effect on the pre-programmed amount of space that will be affected by your HVAC system. If you want to control the temperatures in your home from room to room, then you may be interested in installing a zoning system

 

Increasing Your Thermostat’s Temperature Will Not Heat Your Home More Quickly 

Again, since your HVAC system is designed to heat and cool a specified area based on square footage and for a set period of time, cranking up your thermostat will not heat your home more rapidly. It will only result in higher utility bills for you. Your furnace may respond to the increased temperature by running longer, but since it is already programmed to work a certain way, this is just a waste of resources and money. 

 

Turning Off Your HVAC System and Restarting It Is Not Cost-Effective 

It may seem like a good idea to shut down your HVAC system during times when it is not in use, such as on mild weather days or during hours when your home will be unoccupied. However, the fact is that turning off your HVAC system entirely will result in more energy use and higher utility bills, as your system will have to work even harder to reheat or cool down your home once it’s turned back on. A good way to control the settings on your HVAC system in order to cut down on energy waste is to install a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to change the settings on your thermostat even when you were away from home. 

 

Preventive Maintenance is One of The Best Things You Can Do for Your HVAC System 

Preventive maintenance is as essential to your HVAC system as routine medical checkups are for you and your family. Xenia Heating & Air is proud to serve Xenia, Ohio, and the surrounding areas when it comes to providing comprehensive professional care for your HVAC system. Schedule an appointment for an annual inspection and cleaning of your HVAC system prior to the onset of the extreme weather seasons. One of our licensed, certified technicians will perform a thorough inspection to ensure that everything is in perfect working order and that no issues are waiting to rear their ugly heads. The technician will also perform a thorough cleaning of your entire HVAC system, including the ductwork that carries the air into your home. 

 

Air Filters Are Instrumental to The Performance of Your HVAC System 

Check Your Furnace’s Air Filter Every 30 Days 

Changing out your furnace’s air filter is one of the fastest, easiest, least expensive, yet most important steps in preventive maintenance. Failing to keep a clean air filter in your furnace can cause your entire HVAC system to suffer extensive damage. Jot a reminder on your calendar to check the air filter once a month throughout the season when your furnace is being used and replace it when it is dirty. It’s a good idea to keep a few clean air filters on hand for convenience. 

 

A Dirt-Filled Air Filter Can Cause A Lot of Problems 

Neglecting to change the air filter in your furnace allows it to become packed with dirt, dust, and debris, which will prevent air from passing through it. In response, your furnace will attempt to force air through the clogged filter, resulting in your system becoming overworked. When this happens, the motor in your furnace becomes overheated and stops working. This will require professional intervention, and, in some cases, the damage is so extensive that you will have to replace your entire HVAC system. 

 

Do-It-Yourself HVAC Maintenance Matters 

There are times when your HVAC system may require professional upkeep or maintenance, but the steps you take to ensure that your system is well taken care of are just as important. Keep a clean air filter in your furnace at all times, not only to avoid damage to your system but to make sure that the air circulating throughout your home is clean and sanitary. Make sure to change the air filter at least once throughout the cold-weather season. 

 

Final Thoughts on HVAC Misconceptions and The Harm They Can Do 

It makes good sense to educate yourself on the proper operation and care of your home’s HVAC system. This can prevent you from inadvertently causing damage that may result in costly repairs or replacement of your entire HVAC system. Be aware that opening and closing doors and windows is not an effective means of temperature control in your home. Turning your thermostat to an extra high setting will not heat your home more quickly than allowing your furnace to run at a steady pace. Changing your furnace’s air filter when it becomes dirty is one of the most effective ways to keep your HVAC system working to the best of its ability. 

 

Still Have Questions About Your HVAC System?

Xenia Heating & Air is at your service round the clock, 365 days a year. Give us a call at (937) 708-8451 or visit us online at https://www.xeniaheatingandair.com/schedule-now/. Located in Xenia, Ohio, we are happy to serve our community and the surrounding areas, and we pride ourselves on providing the best customer service in the business.