Your home’s HVAC system is a sophisticated piece of equipment with multiple components and processes. Read on to discover some of the common HVAC myths that could impact your system’s performance in Fort Pierce, FL.
Myth: A Larger AC System Will Cool Your Home Better
One of the critical factors that will determine the performance of your AC system is sizing. The capacity of your cooling system must match the requirements of the building. When your AC system is too small, it’ll keep running to meet your home’s cooling load.
However, an AC system with a larger capacity may not be the solution either. An oversized HVAC system will keep switching on and off. The constant cycling will cause some critical components to deteriorate.
As relative humidity levels rise on the east coast of Florida, your AC system may not regulate humidity effectively. Since it keeps switching on and off, your cooling system doesn’t get enough time to capture and drain the moisture.
Therefore, an AC system should neither be too big nor too small. That’s why manufacturers and industry experts recommend consulting a professional for installation services.
Myth: You Can Choose an AC System If You Know the Square Footage
Before the AC installation process, a licensed service technician will consider several factors to ensure that the system’s sizing is precise. The square footage of your home is only one of the variables that professionals apply in their calculations.
Licensed service technicians use Manual J Calculations, the industry standard for sizing the HVAC system. Besides square footage, Manual J will also consider the total area of the walls and the number of windows and exterior doors.
An AC installation professional will also analyze your insulation and check for drafty windows and doors. Substandard insulation will raise the building’s cooling load and strain your air conditioning system.
Myth: You Can Seal Air Ducts with Duct Tape
Despite its name, duct tape isn’t the ideal solution for leaks in your air ducts. The tape cannot handle the extreme temperature fluctuations in your ductwork. The material will break down and cause further complications for your system.
Additionally, building codes define the standards for sealing air ducts and fixing leaks. For example, AC service technicians must fasten crimp joints and ductwork connections with mechanical fasteners.
Using duct tape could raise your utility bills and overwork your air conditioning system. It’s advisable to consult certified AC service technicians to restore your system’s performance and comply with local regulations.
Myth: The Thermostat’s Location Isn’t Important
Another common HVAC system myth is that you can place the thermostat virtually anywhere in your home. The truth is that the device’s location will influence the system’s efficiency and your home’s comfort.
The thermostat must not be in drafty areas of the room, such as the exterior doors and windows. It should also be away from direct sunlight or any heat radiation from cooking appliances. Otherwise, the device will record incorrect room temperatures, which will influence the performance of your air conditioner.
Myth: Maintenance Isn’t Important If the AC System is Working Correctly
Maintenance is essential for the performance of your HVAC system, even if it seems to be running efficiently. The maintenance process involves checking components for faults that could evolve into an expensive repair.
What may appear to be minor faults may eventually damage your system and pose hazards. Even loose wiring could trigger dangerous electrical arching and potentially cause a fire.
Also, there are faults that homeowners cannot detect by casual observation. Maintenance service technicians have the tools and expertise to spot the problem at its onset.
You should schedule maintenance at least once a year to uphold the system’s performance throughout the season. A professional maintenance process will keep your home safe and protect the manufacturer’s warranty.
Our NATE-certified service technicians will repair and maintain components and provide an honest assessment of your equipment during the tuneup. Call Grimes Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about our comprehensive maintenance plans.
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