The internet is without a doubt a very useful resource when it comes to getting information on pretty much any problem you might have. However, sometimes too much information can cause issues, since not all that information is always true or applicable to your specific case (think: people who google minor symptoms and suddenly suspect their illness is far more severe than it actually is).
This false information, or lack of customized information, impacts what you do with your HVAC systems too—and unfortunately can lead you to make mistakes in regards to your system efficiency. You could wind up paying more for less comfort as a result. What you really need is an HVAC contractor in West Palm Beach, FL to tell you what’s what. That’s what we are here for! Keep reading to discover some of the most common myths that we’d like to debunk for you today.
Myth #1: Your Air Filter Only Needs Changing Annually
This would be a pretty big mistake, if you believed it. As a second part to this myth, many homeowners believe that the air filter of their HVAC systems is there to protect the indoor air quality of the home. However, its intended purpose is actually to protect the inside components of the HVAC systems themselves, from dust and dirt that can impede performance.
Because of this misconception, many people believe that the air filter just needs to be changed during their annual maintenance appointment. The fact of the matter is that although our technicians will certainly check the air filter during maintenance, it needs to be changed out (or cleaned, if it’s permanent) every 1-3 months during periods of use. When you live in the Palm Beach area, that pretty much means all year long!
Myth #2: Closing Off Vents Will Help Save Money
We get where this idea came from. If there’s no cooled air being pumped into an unoccupied room, then your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard, right?
Unfortunately, this is not the case and this is one of the biggest myths we want to debunk. Closing off room vents can actually make your air conditioner work harder. This is because your air conditioner is still trying to achieve the same level of airflow and meet the temperature demands of your thermostat, without its conditioned air being properly distributed through the ductwork.
To truly boost the efficiency of your air conditioner and achieve zoned cooling, you’d want to have a zone control system installed, which closes off dampers instead of vents, or invest in a ductless cooling and heating system with individual air handlers, which can be controlled individually from one another.
Myth #3: Refrigerant Needs Regular Refilling
Referred to as recharging in the HVAC world, refilling refrigerant shouldn’t be something you need, unless you have a leak. Ideally, your HVAC system is supplied with enough refrigerant upon installation to last its entire lifespan. It’s a recycled product, not one that runs out like fuel does in a car.
Therefore, if your system is losing refrigerant, it means that the system has a leak, which must be located and repaired to maintain effective cooling.
We are one of the very few HVAC companies in south Florida that is also a licensed mold assessor, mold remediator, and duct cleaner. Contact us today for whatever your HVAC needs may be!
