Common HVAC Myths Debunked

There’s a lot of misinformation floating around about heating and cooling systems. Falling for these myths can lead to higher energy bills, reduced system lifespan, and inefficient performance. At Air Orleans, we want to help you separate fact from fiction. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common HVAC myths and why they simply aren’t true.

Myth #1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

🔍 The Reality: Closing vents doesn’t actually save energy. In fact, it can cause damage to your HVAC system.

Your HVAC system is designed to distribute air evenly throughout your home. When you close vents in unused rooms, it increases pressure in the ductwork, forcing your system to work harder. This added strain can lead to:

✅ Higher energy consumption
✅ Increased wear and tear on the blower motor
✅ Reduced efficiency and airflow
✅ Potential duct leaks due to excess pressure

What to Do Instead: If you want to reduce energy use, consider a zoning system, where different areas of your home are heated or cooled separately. Another option is to upgrade to a smart thermostat, which optimizes energy use based on occupancy patterns.

Myth #2: Bigger HVAC Systems Are Always Better

🔍 The Reality: An oversized system will cause more harm than good.

It’s a common belief that getting a bigger HVAC unit will heat or cool your home faster. While it may do so in the short term, it comes at a cost:

✅ Short cycling: The system turns on and off frequently, preventing proper dehumidification and temperature consistency.
✅ Uneven temperatures: Some rooms may feel too hot or cold, while others remain uncomfortable.
✅ Increased energy costs: More frequent cycling consumes more electricity.
✅ Shorter lifespan: Constant cycling wears out components faster.

What to Do Instead: Always have a professional perform a Manual J Load Calculation to determine the right system size for your home. A properly sized unit will provide efficient heating and cooling, better humidity control, and longer-lasting performance.

Myth #3: HVAC Maintenance Isn’t Necessary Unless Something Breaks

🔍 The Reality: Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends your system’s life.

Think of HVAC maintenance like getting an oil change for your car—it’s essential to keeping everything running smoothly. Skipping maintenance can lead to:

✅ Reduced efficiency and higher energy costs
✅ Increased risk of breakdowns
✅ Shorter system lifespan

What to Do Instead: Schedule bi-annual HVAC check-ups (once before summer, once before winter). Professional tune-ups include:

• Cleaning outdoor coils and drain lines

• Checking refrigerant levels

• Inspecting electrical components

• Ensuring airflow is optimal

Myth #4: The Lower You Set Your Thermostat, the Faster Your Home Cools

🔍 The Reality: HVAC systems don’t work like that—they cool at a set rate.

Lowering your thermostat to 60°F won’t cool your home any faster than setting it to 72°F. The system will still operate at the same pace, but it will run longer and waste energy.

What to Do Instead:

• Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature.

• Use a programmable thermostat to schedule temperature changes throughout the day.

Myth #5: Ceiling Fans Lower the Temperature in a Room

🔍 The Reality: Fans cool people, not rooms.

Ceiling fans do not reduce room temperature. Instead, they create air movement, making you feel cooler by enhancing evaporation on your skin. If no one is in the room, leaving the fan on just wastes electricity.

What to Do Instead:

• Use ceiling fans only when the room is occupied.

• Switch fan direction counterclockwise in summer for a cooling effect, and clockwise in winter to push warm air down.

Myth #6: HVAC Systems Need Refrigerant Refills Regularly

🔍 The Reality: Refrigerant should never need to be "topped off."

Unlike car fuel, refrigerant does not get used up. If your system is low on refrigerant, it means there’s a leak—and simply adding more doesn’t fix the issue. Leaks can cause:

✅ Reduced cooling capacity
✅ Higher energy bills
✅ Compressor failure

What to Do Instead: If you notice weak cooling or ice buildup on your refrigerant lines, call a professional to inspect and repair the leak before adding more refrigerant.

Myth #7: Space Heaters Are a Cost-Effective Way to Heat Your Home

🔍 The Reality: Space heaters are energy hogs.

While space heaters can provide quick warmth, they consume a significant amount of electricity, leading to higher energy bills. Most space heaters use 1,500 watts per hour, which adds up fast.

What to Do Instead:

• Improve insulation to keep heat inside.

• Seal windows and doors to reduce drafts.

• Upgrade to an energy-efficient heating system.

Final Thoughts: The Truth About HVAC Efficiency

Misinformation about HVAC systems can lead to unnecessary energy waste, discomfort, and costly repairs. Understanding how your system actually works allows you to:

✅ Improve efficiency
✅ Save money on energy bills
✅ Extend the life of your HVAC equipment

If you have questions or need expert HVAC advice, the team at Air Orleans is here to help!

📞 Call us today to schedule a consultation or maintenance check.