HVAC Systems: The Six Costly Misguided Beliefs You Can Avoid
When we’re out making calls, we hear a lot of common myths from the homeowners we visit concerning HVAC systems. That’s why we decided to make this list of the most common misconceptions that you can avoid. This list exists to help you avoid these misconceptions and save money down the line.
Most Edmonton homeowners simply cannot tell the difference between a good HVAC system and one that is costing so much money and energy in repair costs that it’s not worth it anymore.
According to Edmonton homeowners, the following are the six most common misguided beliefs concerning heating and air conditioning systems that cost a ton of money. We revealed the HVAC truths behind them below.
1. If It’s Working, Don’t Worry
This isn’t always the case.
An example of this would be a heating system that still works even if the heat exchanger has a crack. What’s the danger? A cracked heat exchanger can lead to a leak of carbon monoxide. We don’t have to tell you how lethal this is!
Another example is a cooling system that is low in Freon but continues to work. However, in order to keep cool, it has to work double time, which costs you more in energy and makes the other parts die faster.
It doesn’t matter if your equipment seems to be working just fine. It’s still a good idea to have a HVAC professional come out every year to check on them.
2. Changing The Filter Is All That Is Necessary
Most homeowners know that they need to change the filters for a good airflow. But that’s not all you need to do. In order to keep a healthy home, you should also check the ducts and vents for any mold, dirt, or dust. Otherwise, they may spread through the home. They are also obstructions which can cause your machine to work double time to bypass.
While you are at it, check the electrical connections, the hot water systems, condenser and evaporator coils, fuel systems, steam systems, blower components, condensate drain, and refrigerant levels.
3. It’s Normal To Have Uneven Heat And Cool Air Distribution
This is wrong. It’s important for your whole home to have the same cool and hot temperature. Simply put, there’s nothing normal about certain areas of your home being cooler or hotter than the others. If your cooling and heating system is efficient, then it will take over your whole home.
Does everything seem normal but one room seems hotter or colder than the others? You may have an obstruction in the air return registers or something wrong with your ductwork. It is also possible that your HVAC system is simply not big enough for the job you need.
4. Indoor Air Quality Doesn’t Matter
This isn’t true either. It’s very important that you have a healthy and comfortable home.
The sad truth is that nearly every home is going to have varying levels of air pollution. This leads to headaches, runny noses, asthma, dry eyes, fatigue, and sometimes lung diseases. Did you think that your heating and cooling system only works to regulate temperature? Not true! It’s also used to regulate the air you breathe.
Some causes of poor indoor air quality include:
- Seasonal pollen, and pet hair and dander
- Second-hand smoke
- Paint and hairspray fumes
- Radon (This is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can get into your home through cracks in the walls and foundation)
- Combustion pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. These can come from wood burning stoves and furnaces.
5. You’re Wasting Money With Service Contracts
The only way to make sure that your HVAC system lasts as long as possible is to have regular checkups by HVAC specialists. This will lead to the fewest number of repairs and the best energy cost for you. This will also ensure that your system is working on those extreme temperature days, such as when the outside temperature is well below freezing.
Watch as it pays for itself when you have your HVAC equipment regularly serviced. It will keep it working at peak performance every hour of the day, every day of the year.
6. Go With The Cheapest Contractor
While it is true that not everything expensive is better, and not everything she does bad, there are some things that you should still take into consideration when you’re looking at quotes.
– Value, and not price, is what you are really looking for. Don’t be someone that tries to compare apples to oranges when it comes to contractors. Remember that more efficient equipment costs more, but will save you in energy costs. A shoddy company will never offer you a guarantee. Be sure to study every quote thoroughly and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
– All prices quoted should be the same as advertised. Don’t be surprised if some Edmonton HVAC contractors advertise a much lower price than is realistic. Once they when your bid, they will only pressure you to buy more of their services. Don’t be a victim.
Our Recommendations
Here are some points that you should consider if you’re looking for a reliable Edmonton HVAC contractor.
1. Make sure that your HVAC system is maintained by a professional regularly. This will help your system stay efficient and save you money, while extending its life.
2. Don’t forget indoor air quality. Be sure to change your filters regularly and always clean your ducts. Also consider a heat recovery ventilator, which will bring in fresh air and improve the climate control without wasting any energy.
3. Be sure to ask any particular HVAC contractor the following questions:
- Do you have an HVAC contractor license?
- Are you available for emergencies?
- Do you offer a guarantee?
- Are your technicians regularly trained?
- Are you a member of any trade associations?
- Are you authorized to handle air-conditioners and refrigerants?
- Do you offer credit terms or accept credit cards?
- Can you provide references?