Common HVAC Myths, Debunked by the Experts

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, there’s no shortage of advice out there. From thermostat settings to maintenance routines, homeowners often hear tips from neighbors, social media or quick internet searches. But not all of this advice reflects how modern HVAC systems work. In fact, some of the most common HVAC myths can lead to higher energy bills, unnecessary strain on equipment and reduced comfort inside your home.

Understanding the facts behind these misconceptions can help you get better performance from your system and avoid costly mistakes. Below, we break down six common HVAC myths and explain simple best practices to help keep your home comfortable and your system running efficiently.

Myth #1: Turning off the AC when you’re not home saves energy

It sounds reasonable that turning off the air conditioning unit while you are away will help save money and conserve energy, but it’s actually just the opposite. But an air conditioning unit requires a large amount of energy to restart after being fully shut off. Humidity can build up and rise to an uncomfortable level throughout the house without consistent air circulation. This damages the internal parts of your system and can increase your electric bill, as the unit is forced to work harder and less efficiently for a longer period.

The solution? You can save as much as 10 percent a year on heating and cooling bills by setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees higher when you are asleep or away from home. Consider installing a programmable thermostat or an HVAC system with variable-speed technology to automate this practice and give you full scheduling control without sacrificing comfort. Variable-speed technology systems are an efficient and cost-effective solution, enabling the HVAC system to run at a variety of speeds to precisely control the heated or cooled air in the home, remove moisture and improve indoor air quality.

Myth #2: Setting the thermostat lower cools your home faster

When a room is too hot, most people’s first instinct is to go to the thermostat and press the button a few (dozen) times. But setting the temperature extremely low does not affect cooling speed or kick the air conditioning unit into high gear. As the unit works longer to cool the home, it will waste energy and experience unnecessary strain.

Instead, the best practice is to set the thermostat at one comfortable temperature and let the HVAC system handle the rest. To be the most energy-efficient on days over 100 degrees, set it to 78 degrees. This may seem a bit warm, especially on those days you think you could fry an egg on the pavement. Utilizing ceiling fans, blocking out sunlight, scheduling regular HVAC maintenance appointments and gradually increasing the house temperature as you get used to a warmer indoor setting, you and your family will adjust comfortably. Just remember, most systems are designed to lower your indoor temperature by about 20 degrees from the outside. So, if the weather is 100 degrees outside and your system is running at peak efficiency, your indoor temperature will likely never maintain a level lower than about 80 degrees.

Myth #3: Bigger HVAC systems perform better

Contrary to popular belief, bigger isn’t always better when it comes to your HVAC system. The reason? Having a system that’s too big for your home can:

• Cost a lot to run.
• Cycle on and off too often.
• Ultimately shorten the lifespan of the unit.

Instead of choosing the biggest, most powerful unit, focus on finding the one that’s the right size for your home. You don’t need to figure it out on your own — consult the experts to find the unit that’s best for you.

Myth #4: Maintenance is optional or only needed when the system breaks

In some ways, taking care of your HVAC system is like taking care of yourself — you shouldn’t skip annual wellness checks and only go to the doctor when you’re sick. Regular maintenance is important to keep your system operating efficiently, as an efficient system helps you save on monthly bills. In addition, cutting corners will cost you in the long run when you have to pay for costly repairs. Instead, schedule annual maintenance to keep your system running in good condition and stay ahead of any major problems.

Myth #5: Air filters only need to be changed once a year

How often you change your air filters depends on your specific situation, but you definitely need to do it more than once per year. Changing them every three months is a good rule of thumb, but you may want to do it more often if you have pets that shed or a family member with allergies. In that case, you might want to change them every month. Not sure whether it’s time to switch them out? You can also tell whether an air filter is full by just looking at it. If it looks gross and dusty, it’s time to change it.

Myth #6: Brand is the most important factor when choosing a new unit

While many brands pitch themselves as the best in the business, not all heating and air systems include the same comfort features. You’ll want to find the right HVAC system for your home, budget and lifestyle. Before choosing a new unit, it’s a good idea to ask questions such as:

• Has your home been cold enough during summer and warm enough in the winter?
• How long do you intend to keep your house? Have you considered investing more in your equipment now to save on long-term energy costs?
• Do you want the ability to create different temperatures in different rooms throughout your home?
• Does anyone in your home suffer from asthma, allergies or dry skin? Do you have pets in your home?
• Are you concerned about the environment?

Helpful features you want to look for may include a Wi-Fi thermostat, an integrated humidifier, weather-protection features or the ability to create multiple heating and cooling zones. Carrier systems are among the best heating and cooling systems available, with several comfort, cost and environmental benefits.

Trust the Experts

Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning is a proud, award-winning Carrier-authorized dealer, continuing a legacy of comfort that began more than a century ago. The professionals at Barineau have proudly served north Florida, south Georgia and the Emerald Coast for more than 50 years and across three generations, providing top-quality home comfort service. Through committed hard work, integrity, ingenuity and treating customers like family, Barineau has built a reputation as the premier HVAC service company in the area. 

With Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning’s Total Comfort Service Program, you’ll enjoy cost-saving benefits like no overtime charges and repair discounts. Signing up for an annual plan removes the burden of having to remember annual maintenance appointments, and you will receive priority service whenever you need us. You can rest easily knowing that Barineau has your back and will remind you when it’s time for your appointment. 

Have questions? Call our team at (850) 580-4029 or schedule an appointment.