As Utah homeowners and businesses gear up for another season of extreme temperatures, understanding your HVAC system is key to staying comfortable without breaking the bank. At Ninja HVAC, we’re committed to helping you separate fact from fiction. Here are five common HVAC myths debunked to help you optimize your system, save energy, and ensure long-term performance.
Myth 1: You Only Need to Change Your Air Filters Once a Year
Analogy: Changing your air filter once a year is like only washing your hands annually. Your health would suffer, and so does your HVAC system’s ‘health’—except it can’t sneeze to warn you!
Many believe annual filter changes suffice, but this can reduce efficiency and worsen air quality, especially in Utah’s dusty climate.
Fact: ENERGY STAR recommends checking your filter monthly and replacing it at least every three months. In Utah’s dry, dusty environment, filters clog faster, so monthly checks are wise. Regular changes improve airflow, enhance air quality, and reduce system strain, potentially lowering energy bills. Learn more about maintaining your system on Ninja HVAC’s SLC Heating & Cooling FAQs page.
Myth 2: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
Analogy: Closing vents to save energy is like trying to breathe through a straw while running a marathon. Your HVAC system needs to ‘breathe’ freely to work efficiently.
It’s tempting to close vents in unused rooms, but this practice often backfires.
Fact: Closing vents increases ductwork pressure, risking leaks or damage to components like the blower fan. Iain Walker, an ASHRAE member, notes that closing vents doesn’t save energy and may increase costs as the system works harder. Keep vents open for balanced airflow. For better control, explore zoned HVAC options with Ninja HVAC’s expert services.
Myth 3: A Bigger HVAC System Is Always Better
Analogy: An oversized HVAC system is like wearing clown shoes to run a marathon. You’re stumbling, sweating, and wasting energy while everyone else zooms by in their perfectly fitted sneakers.
Some think a larger unit delivers better performance, but size matters in terms of fit.
Fact: The U.S. Department of Energy states that oversized systems cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy and struggling with humidity control in Utah’s dry climate. A properly sized system ensures efficiency and comfort. Ninja HVAC offers expert sizing assessments—check out their main service page for more details.
Myth 4: Routine Maintenance Isn’t Necessary Unless There’s a Problem
Analogy: Skipping HVAC maintenance is like ignoring a toothache. You might chew happily for now, but soon you’re clutching your jaw and dreading the dentist’s drill—and the bill!
Some homeowners skip annual check-ups, believing maintenance is only needed for issues. This can lead to failures, especially in Utah’s harsh weather.
Fact: ENERGY STAR advises annual pre-season check-ups to maintain performance and prevent problems. Regular maintenance catches minor issues early, improving efficiency and extending system life. Dive deeper into the benefits on Ninja HVAC’s HVAC Preventative Maintenance page, or see how neglecting care can lead to emergencies on their 24 Hour Emergency HVAC Services page. Schedule a tune-up with Ninja HVAC to stay ahead.
Myth 5: It’s Better to Leave the Thermostat at the Same Temperature All Day
Analogy: Keeping your thermostat constant is like leaving the lights on all day to save electricity. Your house might glow like a beacon, but your wallet’s dimming fast.
Some think a steady setting saves energy, but this increases costs.
Fact: The U.S. Department of Energy states that adjusting your thermostat when away or asleep can save up to 10% on heating and cooling bills. Programmable thermostats automate this, making it easy to save in Utah’s variable climate. Programmable thermostats automate this, making it easy to save in Utah’s variable climate. Find thermostat tips on Ninja HVAC’s SLC Heating & Cooling FAQs.
Take Control of Your HVAC System with Ninja HVAC
Debunking these myths empowers you to make informed decisions about your HVAC system, saving money and enhancing comfort. At Ninja HVAC, we’re here to help Utah homeowners and businesses with expert maintenance, system sizing, and energy-saving solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about keeping your HVAC system running smoothly.
Ready to optimize your HVAC system? Reach out to Ninja HVAC for professional services tailored to Utah’s unique climate.
Key Citations:
- ENERGY STAR: Heat & Cool Efficiently
- VerifyThis: Closing Vents Won’t Save Money on Heating
- Department of Energy: HVAC Sizing Research
- ENERGY STAR: Maintenance Checklist
- Department of Energy: Thermostat Savings This Winter
- The Home Depot: How Often to Change Your Air Filter
- Paschal Air: How Often to Change Your HVAC Air Filter
- Department of Energy: Programmable Thermostats
