Everyone wants to save on their monthly bills, and a high efficiency furnace promises exactly that. However, there are some common myths floating around, and we’re here to bust them. Let’s dive in.
Myth 1: Bigger is better
It is often assumed that a bigger system will heat and cool a house more effectively because it has more power. This is false. A system that is too big for a home is inefficient because it uses more energy than needed to get the job done. It just doesn’t make sense that a small condo and a three-storey house would benefit from the same size HVAC system. It is all about choosing the right sized unit for your home, not the biggest one.
Myth 2: You need to close the vents when you are not in a room in order to reduce your utility bills
Vents exists to circulate the air throughout your home. Closing the vents can block the system from inhaling and exhaling properly and cause it to work less efficiently. Closing the vent only changes how much air is entering the room, not how hard your system is working.
Myth 3: Keeping an older unit is saving you money
All HVAC systems have a life expectancy before they no longer work or require tons of servicing and maintenance. Over time, keeping an older unit instead of investing in a new one may cost you more than purchasing a new system. New systems will require less maintenance and repairs and will save you money on your monthly utility bills.
Myth 4: Your home will heat faster, the higher you set your thermostat
Your system delivers heat at the same rate no matter what the thermostat is set at. The number you set your thermostat to is simply the end goal for the system. Setting your thermostat higher will not make it heat quicker and setting it lower will not make it cool faster.
Myth 5: Attic insulation is for winter only
Winter insulation helps trap warm air in the home during the cold winter months. However, it is also useful in keeping cool air inside during the summer. Attic insulation contributes to a high degree of energy efficiency all year round.
Myth 6: You should keep your HVAC system running all the time to keep the temperature consistent
Keeping your HVAC system running all the time can wear out your system quicker. If you understand how a high efficiency furnace works, you will know that this is not necessary to keep the temperature in your home consistent. If your house has reached the temperature selected on your thermostat and the system is still running, it may just be blowing air through the vents, which is not contributing to the temperature anymore.
How a High-Efficiency Furnace Works
A high-efficiency furnace is designed to use less energy while providing consistent heat for your home. And, as we proved above, without affecting performance. Here’s how it works:
- Two Heat Exchangers: Unlike standard furnaces, high-efficiency models have two heat exchangers. The primary exchanger heats the air, while the secondary exchanger captures extra heat from exhaust gases, which would otherwise be wasted.
- Sealed Combustion: These furnaces use outdoor air for combustion instead of indoor air, improving efficiency and safety.
- Variable-Speed Blower: A variable-speed motor adjusts airflow based on your home’s heating needs, ensuring consistent temperatures and reduced energy usage.
This design minimizes energy waste, lowers heating costs, and keeps your home comfortable all winter.
Looking for the Right High Efficiency Furnace?
Do you have more questions? Contact Advantage Airtech ClimateCare to discuss your home’s HVAC system.
