Misconception #1 - As long as it's running, it's O.K.
Not necesserilly. Equipment often appears to be running fine but may be on the brink of failure. Furnaces can have cracked heat exchangers and appear to run properly. However, they are leacking carbon monoxide setting up a very dangerous situation. Air conditioners will run low on refrigerant but have to run harder and longer. This can evantually lead to equipment failure. Jist because it runs when you want it to doesn't mean there's not serious problem.
Misconception #2 - Changing filters is all the maintenance you need.
That's a good start but more should be done. Changing and keeping filters clean is critical to maintaining the proper air flow through your equipment. However, there are numerous things that should be done regularly. The blower should be inspected and lubed. Refrigerant level and thermocouples checked. Burners adjusted and cleaned. You see, it's more then just changing filters.
Misconception #3 - It's normal for some rooms to be hotter or cooler then others.
No. Each room should maintain proper temperature. With a proper designed air distribution system all all should be comfortable. A properly designed system will have different size ducts and registers serving each room. The ducts and registers should only be identical if the rooms are identical and that is unusual. The ducts should also have adjustable dumpers for adjusting airflow to each area.
Misconception #4 - Indoor air quality is not a problem at my house.
Not true. All houses have indoor air quality problems. They just differ in severity. All houses have some problems with dust. It's usually most noticable right after you've dusted or when company is coming over. In the springtime, pollen can be big problem. And if you have pets , there's pet hair and dander that get in your air. There are also fumes from painting, hairspray, coocking, and who knows what else. Platic in your house is always giving off molecules as it sets up. If you have allergies, all this problems feel amplified by your sneezing and runny nose. All houses have indoor air pollution, some are just worse then others.
Misconception #5 - Service contracts are waste of money.
No. Regular service is critical to making your equipment last a long time and run efficiently. Regular servicing also can detect small problems before they become more serious. No one wants their system to fail on the hottest or coldest day of the year. Regular servicing helps keep your system in tiptop shape and pays for itself in the long run.
