For working environments like factories and warehouses, HVAC systems are ideal for maintaining a consistent, comfortable temperature. Excessive heat and cold can be detrimental to a workforce’s concentration levels, directly impacting productivity. An expertly installed HVAC system is one of the easiest ways to maintain comfortable temperature levels, regardless of the weather outside.
There are a number of myths about HVAC systems – something we here at Heritage Heating and Cooling are keen to dispel. Read on for information that puts these myths firmly to bed.
Myth: HVAC filters only need to be changed once a year
Most issues that occur in HVAC systems are related to airflow issues, which can be directly linked to a dirty filter. Dirty filters prevent air travelling through the system, affecting both heating and cooling functions – a blocked filter can reduce airflow by up to 90%.
Aside from a reduction in airflow, a blocked filter could eventually lead to a blower motor failure, compressor failure, and a lack of cooling. When in use for heating, the furnace could overheat and shut down the system.
Some people might think changing an HVAC filter once a year is sufficient, but this isn’t often enough. Filters should be changed every few months, and possibly even more frequently for buildings that are frequently dusty or smoky.
Myth: Thermostats can be installed anywhere
Thermostats are sensitive to temperature, so the place they are installed is very important. A thermostat will not work properly if it is installed near a source of heat, a place where a door frequently opens to the outside, or a window. It should also not be installed in a kitchen or bathroom, or anywhere that receives direct sunlight.
Placing a thermostat in these places could cause false readings. The thermostat will then think the building is warmer or cooler than it actually is, which will activate your HVAC system prematurely and waste energy.
Myth: Turning the thermostat all the way up or down cools and heats faster
Whatever temperature you set your thermostat to, your HVAC will only work so hard to reach it, and it will always do so at the same rate. The system won’t work any faster just because the temperature has been changed up or down significantly. Turning the thermostat one way too much will just make the air conditioner or heater cycle on and off more frequently – which can eventually wear down the internal mechanisms.
To prevent unnecessary wear and tear to your HVAC, make sure you set a realistic temperature and wait while the system works its magic. Handily, many models can be set remotely. Simply programme it to be set to a specific temperature before you come into work the next day, and it’ll already have reached your ideal temperature by the time you get in.
Myth: Leaving your HVAC system on a constant low setting is more energy efficient
It would be easy to assume that leaving the heating or air conditioning on at a constant low temperature is more energy efficient than turning it on and off when you need it. However, leaving your HVAC system running constantly – even at low levels – simply results in it being on when nobody needs it. Therefore, you risk people getting too warm and throwing the windows open (which is very energy inefficient), or feeling underdressed in summer clothes when the air conditioning is constantly running unnecessarily.
Also, running your heating or air conditioning at a low setting won’t make much difference when it really is needed to heat or cool your building.
Myth: Bigger HVAC systems are better
It’s understandable to think the bigger the HVAC system, the better it will operate – however, this can be an expensive myth. The size of a building, the number of windows and doors, the quality of insulation – all these things can affect how many units are needed to effectively heat or cool a building.
A system that is too big will cycle on and off repeatedly, wasting energy and shortening the system’s working life. And a system that’s too small will be unable to keep the building at a consistent temperature.
If you’re uncertain, contact an HVAC provider like Heritage Heating and Cooling for expert advice and guidance about the right kind of system needed in your building. We also offer a free site survey, where one of our engineers will visit your business and assess your HVAC needs at no cost.
Myth: HVAC maintenance can be done yourself
This is definitely false – HVAC maintenance should always be performed by a trained professional. Maintenance is critical to system operation and safety, and it can be a hazardous job. Unless you are a trained engineer, you should never attempt maintenance yourself. Always call in a professional to do the job for you.
At Heritage Heating and Cooling, we offer nationwide service and repair to all leading HVAC systems. Our highly experienced professionals ensure everything is working as it should be, and provide regular maintenance and repairs when problems occur.
Although there are plenty of myths about heating and cooling systems, one thing that’s certain is Heritage Heating and Cooling can provide you with the best HVAC systems on the market. Get in touch with us to find out more about how we can help you with your business’s heating and cooling solutions.
