Mythbusters: HVAC Edition

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, there’s no shortage of advice—but not all of it is accurate. In fact, many common HVAC tips passed around by neighbors, online forums, or even social media are actually myths that can cost you comfort, efficiency, and money. Believing the wrong information could lead to higher energy bills, unnecessary wear and tear, or avoidable repairs. That’s why the team at Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical is here to set the record straight. With decades of experience serving Buffalo homeowners, we know what really works—and what doesn’t. In this blog, we’ll bust some of the most popular HVAC myths so you can make smarter, more informed decisions about your home’s comfort system.

Myth #1 – “If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It”

While this old saying might apply to some things, it’s definitely not the best advice when it comes to your HVAC system. Many homeowners assume that if their furnace or air conditioner is running, everything must be fine—but HVAC systems are complex machines that need regular maintenance to function properly. Waiting until something breaks can lead to major issues like system failure, reduced efficiency, or expensive emergency repairs.

Preventive maintenance helps catch small problems before they turn into big ones. Dirty filters, worn belts, and low refrigerant levels are all common issues that are easy to fix—if they’re found early. Left unchecked, these seemingly minor issues can strain your system, shorten its lifespan, and drive up your energy bills. Regular tune-ups also help ensure your unit is running safely, which is especially important for gas-powered heating systems.

At Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we recommend seasonal maintenance to keep your system in top shape. It’s a small investment that can lead to big savings and fewer surprises down the line.

Myth #2 – “Bigger HVAC Systems Work Better”

It’s a common assumption: if a small A/C cools your home, a bigger one must cool it even faster and better—right? Not quite. In reality, an oversized HVAC system can actually do more harm than good. While it may cool your home quickly, it won’t run long enough to remove humidity or distribute air evenly, which can leave your space feeling clammy and uncomfortable.

This issue, known as “short cycling,” causes the system to turn on and off more frequently than it should. Short cycling wears out components faster, uses more energy, and can lead to premature system failure. Plus, the constant starting and stopping puts extra strain on motors and electrical parts. Proper sizing is critical—not just for comfort, but also for efficiency and system longevity.

That’s why Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical always performs load calculations to determine the ideal system size for your home. Bigger isn’t always better—right-sized is best.

Myth #3 – “Turning the Thermostat Way Down Cools Faster”

It might seem logical—if your home is hot and you want it to cool down quickly, just crank the thermostat way down, right? Unfortunately, that’s not how HVAC systems work. Your air conditioner operates at a constant rate, meaning it cools your home at the same speed no matter what temperature you set. Lowering the thermostat to 60°F when you only want it at 72°F won’t cool your home any faster—it’ll just keep the system running longer than necessary.

This habit can lead to overcooling, wasted energy, and higher utility bills. It may also cause unnecessary wear on your system by forcing it to work harder for longer periods. Instead of trying to “rush” your A/C, set the thermostat to your desired temperature and let the system do its job efficiently.

If you want better control over your indoor climate, consider installing a smart thermostat. Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical can help you choose and program the right one to keep your home comfortable without wasting energy.

Myth #4 – “Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy”

This is one of the most common HVAC myths—and one of the most misleading. Many homeowners believe that by closing air vents in unused rooms, they can redirect airflow and reduce energy usage. But in reality, your HVAC system is designed to operate with balanced airflow throughout your entire duct system. When you close vents, it throws off that balance, increasing pressure in the ducts and forcing your system to work harder.

This added strain can lead to duct leaks, reduced efficiency, and even damage to components like your blower motor. In some cases, it can also cause your system to short cycle, which further wears it down. Instead of saving money, you may end up increasing your energy bills and shortening your system’s lifespan.

If you’re looking for ways to save energy in unused areas of your home, zoning systems or programmable thermostats are a much better option. Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical can walk you through smart, safe upgrades that make a real impact on comfort and efficiency.

Myth #5 – “Maintenance Isn’t Necessary for New Systems”

It’s easy to assume that a brand-new HVAC system doesn’t need any maintenance—but skipping routine service early on is one of the fastest ways to shorten its lifespan. Even the most advanced, high-efficiency systems need regular checkups to stay in peak condition. Dust buildup, loose electrical connections, and refrigerant imbalances can all develop over time, even in new equipment.

Routine maintenance not only keeps your system running efficiently but also helps you catch potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. It’s also a requirement for most manufacturer warranties—neglecting service could void your coverage if something goes wrong. In short, maintenance isn’t optional—it’s part of protecting your investment.

At Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans designed to keep your new (and old) systems running smoothly for years to come. Because keeping up with service now means fewer surprises later.

Wrap Up: Trust the Experts, Not the Myths

When it comes to your home’s heating and cooling system, what you don’t know can hurt your comfort—and your wallet. Believing common HVAC myths can lead to higher energy bills, frequent breakdowns, and even premature system failure. The good news? With the right information and a team of trusted professionals by your side, you can keep your system running efficiently year-round.

At Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we’re committed to helping Buffalo homeowners make smart, informed decisions about their comfort systems. From routine maintenance to system upgrades, we provide honest advice you can count on—no myths, just facts.

Have questions or want to schedule service? Contact Roy’s today and let our HVAC experts keep your home running smoothly, season after season.