The best way to protect your investment in any piece of mechanical equipment is with regular maintenance and care. You know that your car’s engine will not last very long unless you change the oil regularly. And the same is true for your home’s HVAC system. But what many homeowners are not clear about is what they should be doing to get the most out of this rather costly system that keeps their homes comfortable year-round. There are many myths out there that are not only wrong but could cost you years of service from your HVAC equipment. Some of the bad information includes:

Your Thermostat Controls The Temperature Of Your Home

This is a grey area at best. If your home is not remaining comfortable, the issue could be related to thermostat issues. But there are many other factors to consider. For the thermostat to keep your home at the desired temperature, you need to have adequate insulation, no air leaks at doors or windows, and a very efficient HVAC system. The best way to look at it is that your thermostat is in control of when your furnace turns off and on. But maintaining the temperature in your home is a group effort among the furnace, thermostat, and the structure of your home.

An HVAC Filter Only Needs To Be Replaced Once A Year

This statement is not true at all. But there is no one correct answer that includes a specific time frame for replacement. The correct answer is that the filter in your HVAC unit should be replaced as needed. That means you should check it regularly. And when the filter is becoming covered in dust and dirt particles, replace it. Factors like the level of dust in the environment, the amount of operating time of your HVAC system, and the air filter’s quality will all play into its life expectancy. The only given is that if it is not replaced as needed, it will shorten the life of your HVAC equipment and decrease the air quality in your home.

Your HVAC System Does Not Need Service Until It Stops Working

If you think that changing the filter every few months is all that your HVAC system requires, then be prepared to break out your checkbook. Annual service is a necessity for this heavily relied upon system. From a professional inspection and tune-up to cleaning, service is essential. And the older the unit, the more critical regular service is to prolong your use of this system.

Your HVAC Equipment Is Fine To Use Until It Breaks Down

Everything begins to wear out at some point. And when a mechanical device nears the end of its life, the energy efficiency and the units function both suffer. You will find that your utility bills are beginning to creep up for no apparent reason in many cases. And at the same time, you might be noticing that your home is not as comfortable as it once was. Some rooms are warmer or cooler than others. And it takes a long time for the furnace to warm your home. These are signs that it is time to start shopping and budgeting for a new HVAC system.

When you have a problem with your HVAC or need to schedule service, call (850) 831-4599. The team of HVAC experts at Thompson & Thompson Service Group is happy to assist you in keeping your current unit in peak condition. And when the time comes, you know you can trust our crew to get you the best replacement unit for your home and at a fair and reasonable price.