Separating Fact from Fiction to Save You Money and Stress
There’s a lot of advice out there about how to run your heating and cooling systems—but not all of it is accurate. In fact, some of the most common HVAC “tips” can actually lead to higher energy bills, inefficient performance, and even costly repairs.
At Four Seasons Air Specialists, we’ve been helping families in White Bear Lake stay comfortable since 1974. Today, we’re clearing the air and busting some of the most common HVAC myths we hear from homeowners.
❌ Myth #1: Cranking the Thermostat Cools or Heats Faster
✅ The Truth: Your HVAC system works at the same pace regardless of how high or low you set the thermostat. Turning it way up or down won’t make your home heat or cool faster—it just makes the system run longer, wasting energy.
💡 Try This Instead: Set your thermostat to your desired temperature and let it do its job. For faster comfort, make sure your vents are clear and use fans to help circulate air.
❌ Myth #2: You Only Need to Change the Filter Once a Year
✅ The Truth: Your HVAC filter should be changed at least every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and allergies. A dirty filter can reduce airflow, strain your system, and worsen indoor air quality.
🛠 Tip: Set a reminder to check your filter monthly, especially during heavy use in summer or winter.
❌ Myth #3: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
✅ The Truth: Your HVAC system is designed to balance airflow throughout your home. Closing vents can actually cause pressure imbalances, leading to reduced efficiency, uneven temperatures, and even system damage.
✔️ Better Option: Use a zoning system or programmable thermostat for better control without disrupting airflow.
❌ Myth #4: Ceiling Fans Lower the Temperature
✅ The Truth: Fans don’t cool the air—they move it. That airflow creates a wind-chill effect that helps you feel cooler, but it doesn’t lower the room’s temperature.
🌬 Tip: Turn off fans when you leave the room to save energy—they only help when you’re present.
❌ Myth #5: Bigger HVAC Systems Are Always Better
✅ The Truth: An oversized system may cool or heat your home too quickly, causing it to cycle on and off frequently. This leads to wear and tear, higher humidity, and uneven comfort.
🔍 What You Need: A properly sized system based on your home’s square footage, insulation, and layout. At Four Seasons, we perform professional load calculations to ensure the right fit.
❌ Myth #6: Maintenance Isn’t Necessary if the System Seems Fine
✅ The Truth: Just like a car, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance—even if it’s running. Preventative tune-ups help catch small issues before they become expensive breakdowns.
🗓 Pro Tip: Schedule AC service in the spring and furnace service in the fall to keep everything running at peak performance.
❌ Myth #7: HVAC Systems Only Control Temperature
✅ The Truth: Modern systems manage humidity, air filtration, and ventilation—all critical for comfort and health. Poor humidity or air quality can cause mold, allergies, and even HVAC damage.
💡 Solution: Ask us about whole-home humidifiers, air purifiers, and smart thermostats that optimize your indoor environment.
❌ Myth #8: Duct Tape Is Good for Sealing Ducts
✅ The Truth: Despite the name, regular duct tape isn’t ideal for sealing HVAC ducts—it breaks down over time due to heat and air pressure.
🛠 Real Fix: Use foil tape or mastic sealant for long-lasting, efficient duct sealing. Or have our pros inspect and seal your ducts for you.
Trust the Experts—Not the Myths
There’s no shortage of HVAC myths out there, but believing the wrong ones can cost you in comfort, energy bills, and repairs. At Four Seasons Air Specialists, we’re committed to helping you make smart, informed choices for your home.
✅ Serving White Bear Lake families since 1974
✅ Trusted Lennox dealer and certified technicians
✅ Honest advice, expert service, and seasonal maintenance plans
📞 Have a question about your system—or a myth you’d like us to bust? Contact us today at: 651.426.5254
