7 Common Myths About HVAC Furnaces

One of the most essential pieces of equipment in a home is the furnace. It keeps families warm in the winter, and therefore, it's important to have a clear understanding of how furnaces work. However, there are many myths about furnaces that circulate. This article will dispel some of those myths and help you better understand your furnace.


Myth #1: Furnaces are complicated machines


A furnace may have many parts and pieces, but that doesn’t make it a complicated machine. In fact, furnaces are quite simple to understand – once you know the basics. So, let’s debunk the myth that furnaces are complicated machines.

Furnaces work by igniting fuel and burning it to heat air. The hot air is then circulated through your home via a system of ducts. That’s really all there is to it! The beauty of a furnace is in its simplicity.
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​Of course, there are some more intricate details involved in the inner workings of a furnace. But, even if you don’t understand all the technical jargon, you can still appreciate how a furnace works to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.


Myth #2: Furnaces are energy hogs


Furnaces are often thought to be energy hogs, but that isn't always the case. While furnaces do use a lot of energy, they are not the biggest energy hog in your home. Your fridge and your air conditioner actually use more energy than your furnace. Furnaces are also much more efficient than they used to be. So why the misconceptions about furnaces and energy usage? A lot of it has to do with outdated information. If your furnace is more than 10 years old, it's time for an upgrade. Newer furnaces use less energy and can help you save money.


Myth #3: Newer furnaces are always more efficient and will save me money


In recent years, home furnaces have become more and more efficient. But that doesn’t mean that buying a new furnace will always save you money. In fact, there are a number of factors to consider before purchasing a new furnace for your home.

First, it’s important to understand how furnaces work. They convert fuel into heat, which is then circulated throughout your home by the ductwork. The efficiency of the furnace depends on two things: the fuel-to-heat ratio and the distribution of heat.

Newer furnaces may have a higher fuel-to-heat ratio, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re more efficient. The distribution of heat is just as important, and that depends on your ductwork.

Second, take a look at the efficiency rating of your current furnace. If it’s an older model, it may not be as efficient as newer models on the market. But if it’s relatively new, it may not be worth the investment to replace it with a newer model.

Third, consider the cost of installation and any other associated costs. A new furnace may be more expensive to install than an older one. In fact, the upfront cost of a new furnace can be quite high, and it may take several years to recoup your investment through lower energy bills. Think about the long-term costs of ownership.


Myth #4: Furnaces are dangerous


Furnaces are often thought of as being dangerous, but this is a myth. Furnaces are actually very safe when they are properly maintained and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

There are a few simple steps that you can take to ensure your furnace is safe: first, make sure that the area around your furnace is clear of any flammable materials; second, check the furnace filters monthly and replace them as needed; and finally, have your furnace serviced by a qualified technician at least once a year.

By following these simple steps, you can rest assured that your furnace is safe and will provide you with years of reliable heating.


Myth #5: Bigger is always better when it comes to furnaces


In the dead of winter, the last thing you want is for your furnace to conk out. When it's time for a replacement, many homeowners assume that bigger is always better. But that's not necessarily the case.

A furnace that's too big for your home will actually work less efficiently, because it will cycle on and off more often than a properly sized unit. That means increased wear and tear, higher utility bills, and shorter lifespan for your furnace.

So how do you know what size furnace is right for your home? The best way is to have a professional heating contractor come out and do a load calculation. This takes into account the size of your home, insulation levels, window area, and other factors to determine the correct capacity for your needs.


Myth #6: All furnaces require a lot of maintenance


It’s a common misconception that furnaces require a lot of maintenance. While it’s true that they need to be serviced regularly, there are some easy things you can do to keep your furnace running smoothly. Here are a few tips:

1. Check the air filter monthly and replace it as needed. A dirty air filter can cause your furnace to work harder than necessary and can lead to premature wear and tear.

2. Inspect the blower belt annually and replace it if it shows signs of wear or fraying. A broken blower belt can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down unexpectedly.

3. Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris. This will help ensure proper airflow and prevent potential fires.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your furnace running efficiently for years to come.


Myth #7: My furnace will last forever


It's a common misconception that furnaces last forever. In reality, most furnaces have a lifespan of 15-20 years. With proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your furnace by a few years, but eventually it will need to be replaced.

If your furnace is more than 10 years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. A new furnace will be more energy efficient and will save you money on your utility bills. It’s important to consult with a professional to find the right furnace for your home and needs.

Homeowners should be aware of the signs that their furnace is nearing the end of its life so they can budget for a replacement. Some signs include an increase in heating bills, strange noises coming from the furnace, and more frequent repairs.

Don't wait until your furnace breaks down to start thinking about replacement. By then, it may be too late and you’ll be facing an expensive repair bill. Plan ahead and budget for a new furnace so you can keep your home warm and comfortable for years to come. If you're considering a new furnace, talk to your heating contractor about the best options for your home and budget.


In conclusion, it is important to know the facts about HVAC furnaces before making any decisions. With the right information, you can make an informed decision that will save you time, money, and hassle.