With so much information out there, it’s easy for homeowners to fall into the trap of believing persistent HVAC myths—and unfortunately, these misconceptions can lead to unnecessary expenses, decreased energy efficiency, and even reduced indoor air quality. At Roots Heating & Air, we believe in empowering our customers with accurate, science-based knowledge grounded in building science and best practices recommended by ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers).
Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about heating and cooling systems and uncover the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Bigger HVAC Systems Deliver Better Performance
Truth: While a larger heat pump or air conditioner might seem like a smart investment, oversizing can lead to serious problems. Oversized systems often have short cycles, causing uneven airflow, excessive wear on parts like the compressor, and poor humidity control. This can compromise thermal comfort and increase operating costs.
Proper HVAC installation includes a detailed load calculation that considers not only your home’s square footage but also factors like roof material, window orientation, insulation levels, and duct layout. An oversized system wastes energy, increases carbon emissions, and doesn’t necessarily improve performance.
Myth #2: Change the Air Filter Once a Year
Truth: Your air filter plays a crucial role in protecting your air handler, improving filtration, and reducing exposure to dust, bacteria, and particulates. Changing it just once a year is far too infrequent. Most filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and air pollution levels.
Neglecting filter replacement leads to restricted airflow, poor ventilation, increased pressure on system components, and potential mold growth, especially in humid environments or areas with combustion appliances like a boiler, fireplace, or stove.
Myth #3: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
Truth: While it might seem logical, closing vents can actually increase static pressure in the ductwork, disrupt the balance of your central HVAC system, and cause duct leaks. These imbalances reduce the effectiveness of systems like variable air volume setups or hydronic heating, increasing strain on centrifugal fans, fan coil units, and plenum space components.
Modern systems are designed with balanced heat transfer in mind. If certain rooms need less conditioning, consider programmable thermostats, zoned systems, or passive ventilation alternatives instead of simply shutting off vents.
Myth #4: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Matter
Truth: The location of your thermostat is critical for accurate temperature readings. Placing it near heat-generating appliances, chimneys, or in direct sunlight can result in poor calibration, causing your heating and cooling system to cycle improperly.
For best results, install thermostats on interior walls, away from windows, ceilings, or baseboards, and integrate with home automation systems for smart climate control.
Myth #5: HVAC Systems Don’t Need Routine Maintenance
Truth: Skipping routine HVAC maintenance leads to increased operating costs, reduced system lifespan, and potentially hazardous issues like carbon monoxide leaks in furnaces or fuel oil systems. Routine checks ensure that key components like pumps, refrigerant lines, heat exchangers, and condensers operate safely and efficiently.
Regular inspections also ensure your system complies with safety standards outlined by Occupational Safety and Health guidelines and helps maintain energy star ratings.
Myth #6: Energy-Efficient Units Alone Will Cut Your Bills
Truth: While high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings are important, they’re only part of the equation. Factors like building insulation, thermal bridges, duct sealing, and dehumidifier or humidifier integration also significantly impact efficiency.
Upgrading to a ground source heat pump, installing programmable thermostats, and improving ventilation with energy recovery ventilation (ERV) or free cooling methods can further reduce your electric power consumption and overall carbon footprint.
Myth #7: Duct Tape Is Fine for Sealing Ducts
Truth: Despite its name, duct tape is not recommended for duct sealing. It tends to deteriorate over time and doesn’t provide a reliable seal. Professional-grade mastic sealant or specialized foil tape should be used instead to ensure air-tight duct systems.
Poorly sealed ducts contribute to energy loss, reduced thermal insulation, and diminished system efficiency, especially in attics, basements, or crawlspaces where sheet metal and pipe runs are exposed.
Truth-Based HVAC Planning Saves Money and Energy
Believing myths can lead to:
- Higher utility bills
- Reduced indoor air quality
- Unnecessary plumbing or hvac repairs
- Safety hazards due to improper combustion or poor airflow
- Reduced equipment longevity and voided warranties
Instead, rely on trusted information from certified HVAC contractors near you who understand local HVAC needs, climate conditions, and building construction standards.
Let Roots Heating & Air Separate Fact from Fiction
At Roots Heating & Air, our team of experienced professionals provides honest, high-quality HVAC services to ensure your system is safe, efficient, and built to last. Whether you’re dealing with plumbing, ductless air conditioners, boiler systems, furnace maintenance, or planning a full HVAC installation, we’re here to help you make informed decisions—free of myths and full of value.
Call (303) 381-3061 or request service online today to schedule a system inspection or consultation. Discover the truth about your system—and unlock the comfort, efficiency, and performance you deserve.
