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HVAC Myth Busters: Debunking 6 Common Misconceptions

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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable atmosphere and healthy indoor air quality in our homes. However, with technology advancing at such a rapid rate and an abundance of information readily available, several myths and misconceptions surrounding HVAC systems have developed over the years. In this blog post, we aim to evaluate some of these commonly-held beliefs and shed some light on the truth behind several HVAC myths.

HVAC Myth #1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

HVAC Myth Busters: Debunking 6 Common Misconceptions

You may have heard that closing vents in unoccupied rooms can help save energy and improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. In reality, modern systems are designed to work optimally when all vents are open. Closing the vents may disrupt the balance of the system, leading to increased pressure and potentially causing damage. 

Instead of closing vents, it’s more effective to invest in a programmable or smart thermostat that allows you to adjust the temperature based on your daily schedule. These innovative devices optimize your HVAC system’s energy usage without compromising its functionality.

HVAC Myth #2: Regularly Changing the Air Filter is Unnecessary

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It’s tempting to put off changing your air filter for far longer than is recommended; however, a dirty or clogged air filter can lead to reduced airflow, which causes the system to work harder and consume more energy. Changing the air filter regularly — about every 1–3 months — is a simple, cost-effective way to maintain your HVAC system’s efficiency, extend its lifespan, and improve your home’s air quality. 

HVAC Myth #3: Bigger HVAC Systems Are Always Better

A common misconception is that a larger HVAC system will heat or cool your home faster and more efficiently. In reality, bigger is not always better. Oversized systems can contribute to short-cycling, which occurs when the system turns on and off frequently, resulting in energy waste and unnecessary wear and tear on system components. 

Proper sizing is essential to achieve optimal performance. An HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine the most appropriate system for your home based on factors such as insulation, square footage, and climate.

HVAC Myth #4: HVAC Maintenance Is Only Necessary When There’s a Problem

Most people wait until their HVAC system breaks down before scheduling maintenance. What they may not realize is that regular maintenance and seasonal tune-ups are vital to prevent major issues before they arise. HVAC professionals can inspect and clean system components, check for warning signs of potential problems, and perform tests to ensure everything is operating at peak efficiency. When you invest in preventative maintenance, you’ll likely save money on repairs, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.

HVAC Myth #5: Duct Tape is an Effective Duct Sealing Solution

Despite its name, duct tape is not an effective solution for sealing ducts. Over time, duct tape can deteriorate and lose its adhesive properties, leading to leaks. Professional duct sealing, on the other hand, uses appropriate materials such as specialized tapes and sealants to ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently and that heated or cooled air reaches its intended destination. 

HVAC Myth #6: All HVAC Technicians Provide the Same Quality of Service

hvac myth Roy UT

Not all HVAC technicians are created equal. When you assume that all service providers offer the same level of expertise, you may experience subpar results. When choosing an HVAC technician to perform installation or repair services, it’s important to look for certified professionals with extensive experience and a positive reputation in your community. Look at online reviews, ask friends and neighbors for recommendations, and verify the company or individual’s certifications. 

Choosing a service provider known for providing quality service ensures that your HVAC system receives the highest level of care and attention to detail, and you can rest assured that the work done will contribute to the system’s longevity and overall performance. Excellent service may come at a higher price, but it’s an investment that’s sure to be worth it in the long run.

Experience the R&D Difference

Now that you’re free from pesky misconceptions and equipped with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about HVAC maintenance, it’s time to make the right choice by calling R&D Heating and Air next time you need HVAC services. Our highly trained technicians are known for their outstanding work and comprehensive care. Whether you need air conditioning repairs, furnace replacement, seasonal tune-ups, or duct cleaning, we’ve got you covered. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

As the winter chill descends, it’s vital to ensure your home remains cozy and comfortable. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is sudden HVAC issues during a cold winter night. To ensure you stay warm this winter and get ahead of the chilly weather, we’ve compiled a list of six helpful tips to help you avoid unexpected HVAC malfunctions.

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#1. Heater Troubleshooting

If you want to stay warm this winter, you’ll need to ensure your heater is functioning optimally. If it’s not heating your home effectively, consult the manufacturer’s manual for instructions or try these troubleshooting tips:

  • Check the thermostat: Make sure your thermostat’s settings are correct. If it uses batteries, try replacing them.
  • Inspect the power source: Verify that the heater is receiving power by checking the circuit breaker or fuse box. If you have a gas heater, make sure the gas supply is turned on.
  • Examine the pilot light: For a gas heater, check to see if the pilot light is lit.
  • Reset the system: If your system has a reset button, try resetting it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you’ve tried everything you can think of and your heater still isn’t working, it’s time to call in a professional HVAC technician. With their advanced skills and expertise, they can identify the problem and provide effective solutions.

#2. Furnace Tune-Up

overusing your furnace use your furnace / stay warm

Staying on top of HVAC maintenance is instrumental in preventing major problems, keeping your home warm all winter long and saving you money on costly repairs. One way to do this is by seeking out a yearly professional furnace tune-up to ensure your heater is able to operate safely and efficiently. This is ideally done before the freezing temperatures arrive, but it’s an essential part of HVAC maintenance regardless of the season. 

Tune-ups allow HVAC technicians to inspect your furnace for anything that may be amiss, including wiring issues, corrosion, leaks, insufficient airflow, and debris. If they identify any problems, they can provide you with prompt repairs, ensuring your furnace remains in tip-top shape for years to come.

#3. Eliminate Drafts

Believe it or not, your windows and doors can have a significant effect on your HVAC system’s performance. They are a major source of heat exchange, which means that in the winter, they let heated air out and cold air in. Because of this, your heating system will have to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, therefore increasing your energy bills and leading to premature wear and tear on system components. 

If you want to optimize your HVAC system’s performance, check each of your windows and doors for drafts. If you detect any cold air coming in, you can utilize weatherstripping or caulking to seal the gaps and enhance your home’s insulation.

#4. Upgrade Your Insulation

Your home’s insulation is another factor that can influence your HVAC system’s performance. If your home lacks proper insulation, it will be challenging to stay warm when outdoor temperatures drop, so you may want to consider investing in an upgrade. Proper insulation acts like a warm blanket, keeping the warm air inside your home and the cold air out, making a substantial difference in your level of comfort.

#5. Clean Your Air Ducts

Over time, your air ducts have likely accumulated a buildup of dust, dirt, debris, and pollutants. Not only does this negatively impact your indoor air quality, but it also affects your HVAC system’s effectiveness in maintaining your home’s temperature. All that debris decreases airflow, putting undue strain on your HVAC system and leading to premature wear and tear. 

If your air ducts could use some attention, professional duct cleaning services are an effective way to ensure your HVAC system is taken care of, helping you stay warm indoors despite the winter chill outside. 

#6. Utilize Space Heaters and Fireplaces

gas fireplaces furnaces cheaper / stay warm

If you need a little extra coziness in one area of your home, space heaters and fireplaces can be an excellent way to stay warm. However, they are not to be used as a replacement for a central heating system. Gas fireplaces are technically cheaper to run than central heating, but they are less effective at providing warmth. Space heaters can save you money if you only need to heat one room of your house, but they can cause your energy bills to rise if you use them in tandem with a central heating system. 

If you find that you’re overly reliant on a space heater or fireplace to stay warm, it’s a good idea to get your furnace looked at by a professional to ensure it’s working properly.

Stay Warm With Services From R&D Heating and Air

At R&D Heating and Air, we are dedicated to helping Utah homeowners stay warm during the chilly winter months. If your heater or furnace needs a tune-up or repairs, don’t wait until you freeze — call us today to schedule a service appointment with one of our experienced technicians.

5 Common HVAC Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

To maintain a comfortable home environment, a properly-working HVAC system is essential. Many people take their heater and air conditioner for granted and only notice them when they’re not working properly. 

As a homeowner, it’s important to know the basics of HVAC maintenance so that if things go wrong, you can try to fix it yourself. Of course, there are some problems that need professional help, but if you’re experiencing issues with your HVAC system, there are many things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your home back to normal.

#1. Uneven Heating or Cooling

If you’ve noticed that some rooms of your home are significantly warmer or colder than others, even when the HVAC system is running, try these troubleshooting tips:

  • Check your air filters. If air filters are dirty or clogged, they can restrict airflow, which leads to uneven temperature distribution throughout your home. In order to improve your home’s air circulation, air filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly.
  • Check for blocked vents. When curtains, furniture, or other objects are obstructing the supply or return vents, air cannot flow properly, making the HVAC system more effective in some areas than others.
  • If your thermostat is placed in direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources, it may take inaccurate temperature readings and function improperly for the actual temperature of your home. 

If you’ve tried all these tips and your HVAC system is still heating or cooling your home unevenly, contact a professional HVAC technician for further help.

#2. HVAC System Not Turning On

If your HVAC system refuses to turn on, leaving your house uncomfortably hot or cold, try these troubleshooting steps:

  • First, check the power supply. Make sure the HVAC system is receiving power by checking your home’s circuit breaker and ensuring the power switch is turned on.
  • If the power supply is not the issue, the next step is to check the thermostat. Verify that it’s set to the correct temperature and is in the correct mode (cooling in the summer and heating in the winter). If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries.
  • You should also check your home’s air filters. When filters are severely clogged, it can trigger safety mechanisms that prevent the HVAC system from turning on. If the air filter is in bad shape, clean or replace it.

If, after trying these troubleshooting steps, your HVAC system is still not turning on, the problem may be due to something more serious. A professional HVAC technician can diagnose and fix the issue to get everything back in working order.

#3. Strange Noises Coming From System

If you hear banging, clanging, grinding, or squealing coming from your HVAC system, troubleshoot the issue by taking these steps:

  • First, listen closely. See if you can identify the source of the noise by paying attention to its source. If there are loose components or debris in the vents, they can move around when the air is turned on and cause strange noises.
  • If the noises are particularly alarming, turn off your HVAC system to prevent further damage and contact a professional technician. 

#4. Troubleshoot Leaking or Dripping Water

5 Common HVAC Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

When water is leaking around your HVAC system, it can be indicative of problems that require attention.

  • Check the condensate drain line. If it’s clogged, water can back up and leak. Carefully clear any blockages and see if that fixes the problem.
  • Additionally, refrigerant leaks can also cause water to leak from your system. If your refrigerant levels are low and you suspect a leak, get help from a professional technician. They can safely handle the refrigerant leak and recharge the system.

#5. Continuous Cycling On and Off

If your HVAC system turns on and off frequently, try these troubleshooting tips:

  • Verify the air filters are not clogged. Clogged filters can cause your system to overheat and perform improperly, so clean or replace them as needed.
  • If your thermostat is calibrated incorrectly or is located near a heat source, it can read your home’s temperature inaccurately and lead to short cycling. 
  • Low levels of refrigerant can also cause short cycling. Refrigerant issues are harder and more dangerous to fix on your own, so if this is the case, enlist the help of a certified HVAC technician.

HVAC Maintenance from R&D Heating and Air

Roy Utah AC Repairs

If you’ve tried all these troubleshooting tips and your HVAC system still isn’t functioning properly, it’s time to call in the professionals at R&D Heating and Air. As a fully licensed and insured HVAC maintenance company, we provide high-quality services to all our customers throughout Northern Utah. Our technicians can repair, maintain, and replace heaters and air conditioners, clean out your air ducts, repair gas fireplaces, and even fix appliances. 

To ensure your home’s comfort, contact R&D Heating and Air to schedule a service appointment today. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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