AC systems are critical here in Houston for keeping our homes comfortable during the hot summer months. However, many homeowners have misconceptions about their AC systems. In this blog post, we will dispel some of the most common myths about AC systems.
Common AC Myths
Duct tape can be used to seal air duct leaks
There’s a common belief that duct tape is an easy way to seal air duct leaks, but this is actually a myth. While duct tape can be effective for some repairs, it’s not the best option for sealing air leaks. So, why is duct tape not the best option for sealing air leaks? There are a few reasons. First, duct tape is not very flexible, so it can’t conform to the contours of your ductwork as well as other materials. This means that there’s a greater chance that the seal will fail over time. Additionally, duct tape is not very durable and can be easily damaged by heat, moisture, or abrasion.
One option to seal air leaks is to use mastic sealant. Mastic is a thick, sticky substance that can conform to the contours of your ductwork and create a strong, lasting seal. Another option is to use foil tape. Foil tape is made of metal and has a high level of adhesion, so it can create a tight seal that will withstand heat, moisture, and abrasion.
If I turn my AC off when I leave home, it will save me money.
Fact: Turning your AC off when you leave home will actually cost you more money in the long run. Your AC will have to work harder to cool your home down when you turn it back on, which will use more energy and increase your utility bills. It’s best to keep your AC at a consistent temperature while you’re home and use a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away. This will save you money and keep your home more comfortable.
My AC doesn’t need to be serviced, it’s working fine.
Fact: All AC systems need to be serviced regularly in order to operate at their best. Servicing your AC system includes cleaning the coils, changing the air filter, and checking the Freon levels. These simple AC maintenance tasks will keep your AC system running efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road. Be sure to consult with a professional AC technician to find out how often your system needs to be serviced.
It is easy to repair or do an Ac replacement on your own
There is a common misconception that it is easy to repair an HVAC system. This could not be further from the truth! In fact, repairing an HVAC system is a complex process that should only be attempted by a qualified technician. If you are not familiar with the inner workings of an HVAC system, you could do more harm than good by trying to fix it yourself.
One of the main reasons why it is a myth that it is easy to repair an HVAC system is because there are many different components that make up the system. Each of these components has its own specific function and must be working correctly in order for the system to operate properly. If even one component is not working correctly, it can throw the entire system off balance. This can make it very difficult to identify the root cause of the problem and fix it properly. An HVAC system is often very complex. They may have multiple layers of protection against temperature changes and humidity, meaning that there are many different parts that must all be working correctly in order for the system to function properly. This can make it very difficult to troubleshoot problems and find the right solution.
Outdoor units do not be cleaned
It’s a common misconception that outdoor AC units never have to be cleaned. The fact is, they definitely do! One of the main reasons why it’s important to keep your outdoor AC unit clean is because it can help extend its lifespan. When dirt and debris build up on the unit, it has to work harder to function properly. This puts extra strain on the system and can cause parts to fail prematurely. By keeping the unit clean, you can help it run more efficiently and avoid expensive repairs down the road. Another reason to clean your outdoor AC unit is that it can improve the quality of your air. If the unit is full of dirt and debris, that’s going to get circulated through your home every time the AC turns on. This can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. By keeping the unit clean, you can help ensure that the air in your home is as clean and healthy as possible.
We hope this blog post has helped dispel some of the myths about AC systems. If you have any questions about your AC system, be sure to consult with a professional. If you are here in the Houston area, call us at Be Cool AC & Heating, and we can inspect your AC unit and answer any questions you may have. Schedule your appointment today!
