Doesn't it seem as though utility bills just keep on climbing? If you are like most homeowners, you are probably doing whatever you can to cut down on your energy costs. With heating and cooling costs being responsible for over half of the average household energy bill, your HVAC is a great place to look for potential savings. However, according to your local HVAC company in Knoxville, these common HVAC myths could actually be costing you money rather than saving it!
Myth 1: The Size of Your HVAC Isn’t Important
If you have an HVAC company in Knoxville replace your current HVAC unit, you may consider opting for a smaller, cheaper unit to save some money. However, when your HVAC unit is too small, it has to work harder to cool the space. This means spending more on energy bills, and the unit is likely to break down more often due to it having to overwork. Similarly, if your unit is too large, it is likely to turn on and off frequently, resulting in additional wear and tear, which means more frequent repairs. Your local HVAC company in Knoxville can help you choose the most appropriate unit size to suit your home.
Myth 2 - Turning Down The Temperature Cools The Space Faster
When you are too hot, it is only natural to want to cool down your room as quickly as possible, and you may knock the thermostat down a few degrees to get there faster. However, the truth is no matter how much you lower the temperature, your HVAC unit is still working just as hard, and you need to wait until the desired temperature is reached. The risk is that if you set it too low in an attempt to speed up the process, you may forget about it and end up paying a higher energy bill as a result. The best solution is to talk to your local HVAC company in Knoxville about getting a programmable thermostat, allowing you to set the ideal temperature in time for you coming home!
Myth 3 - It's Best to Turn Off the AC When You Are Not Home
You may think that turning the AC off before you leave for work each day is bound to save you money, but the reality is that repeatedly turning the unit on and off is actually going to cost more! With the AC off, the temperature in your home rises throughout the day, meaning when you come home and turn it on, your AC has to work harder and for longer to cool the space back down. You can make a better saving by using a smart or programmable thermostat to keep a steady temperature while the home is empty, then lowering the temperature around the time you expect to return home.
Myth 4 - Vents Should Be Closed in Rooms You Don't Use
On the same theme as the previous myth, many homeowners believe that closing vents in unused rooms can help lower energy costs. However, it will likely increase your repair costs, eliminating potential savings! At least 75% of your home's vents must be open for appropriate airflow. Closing vents can result in your HVAC unit having to work harder, causing more frequent repairs. If you have several rooms that you are not using regularly, you may want to talk to your HVAC company in Knoxville, TN, about zoning instead!
Myth 5: Air Filters Don't Need Changed!
As an HVAC company in Knoxville, the myth that you don't need to change your air filters is one of the most frustrating! Dirt and neglect are one of the most common reaons for problems with your HVAC system. Air filters are reasonably inexpensive, and changing them regularly every 30 to 90 days goes a long way toward maintaining your HVAC unit. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, your HVAC unit has to work much harder to cool your space. It also means your indoor air quality is negatively affected. You might be surprised to learn that you can save up to 15% on your utility bills by changing a dirty air filter!
Myth 6: Don't Replace Your HVAC Unit Until It Gives Up!
Nobody wants to spend money replacing an HVAC unit before they need to, but if you are running your unit for a long time after its expected life expectancy, it is likely to be inefficient and will cost you a lot more in repairs. It can be a better use of your cash to invest in a new HVAC unit instead. The Department of Energy states that a new energy-efficient model can save between 20% and 40% on energy costs compared to older models that have seen better days! Ask your local HVAC company in Knoxville whether you should be repairing or replacing your unit.
In conclusion, while looking for ways to reduce energy costs is natural, following these common HVAC myths can lead to higher bills and more frequent repairs. From selecting the proper size unit to maintaining a steady temperature, it's essential to understand how your HVAC system truly operates. By debunking these myths and seeking professional advice from a trusted HVAC company in Knoxville, you can make informed decisions that will save you money and prolong your system's life. Proper maintenance, smart upgrades, and efficient usage are the keys to keeping your home comfortable without breaking the bank.
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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.
Call 865-213-3818 or email office@genthvac.com
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