5 Common HVAC Mistakes Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Hey there, welcome to Air Flow Guru! I’m Sajid Biswas, and I’ve been working in the HVAC world for years, troubleshooting everything from split ACs to duct systems. Whether it’s a sweltering summer or a chilly winter, your HVAC system is the unsung hero keeping your home comfy. But I’ve seen homeowners make some avoidable mistakes that can mess up their systems and spike their bills. Let’s dive into the top 5 HVAC mistakes I see on the job and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Ignoring Regular Filter Changes

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a home and found a clogged air filter choking the system. Dirty filters block airflow, make your AC or heater work harder, and drive up energy costs. Worse, they can let dust and debris gunk up your coils.

Fix It: Swap out your air filter every 1-3 months. It’s a quick job pop open the filter slot, check the size (usually printed on the filter), and grab a replacement from any hardware store. Pro tip:- Set a calendar reminder so you don’t forget!

2. Setting the Thermostat Too Low (or High)

I get it you’re hot, so you crank the AC to 18°C (65°F) thinking it’ll cool faster. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Your system works at the same speed, just burning more energy. I’ve seen this a lot with split ACs, where folks expect instant arctic air.

Fix It: Set your thermostat to a comfy 24-26°C (75-78°F) in summer or 20-22°C (68-72°F) in winter. If you’ve got a programmable thermostat, use it to adjust temps when you’re away. Your wallet will thank you.

3. Skipping Annual Maintenance

On job sites, I’ve seen systems fail because homeowners skipped tune-ups. Your HVAC is like a car it needs regular checkups to stay efficient. Neglecting it can lead to low refrigerant, dirty coils, or even a busted compressor.

Fix It: Schedule a yearly check with a certified tech (like me!). They’ll check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and clear drains. If you’re handy, you can clean your outdoor unit’s fins with a garden hose just turn off the power first.

4. Blocking Vents or Registers

I once visited a home where the AC wasn’t cooling, only to find furniture covering half the vents. Blocking vents messes with airflow, strains your system, and leaves some rooms too hot or cold.

Fix It: Keep vents clear of furniture, rugs, or curtains. If you’re not using a room, close that vent lightly, but don’t block them all, it messes with the system’s balance.

5. Ignoring Weird Noises or Weak Airflow

Rattling, buzzing, or weak airflow? That’s your system crying for help. I’ve seen folks ignore these signs until their unit dies completely, costing thousands to replace.

Fix It: Listen for odd noises or check if airflow feels weaker than usual. It could be a loose duct, low refrigerant, or a failing fan. Call a pro ASAP to catch it early and save on repairs.

Let’s Keep the Air Flowing!

These mistakes are super common, but they’re easy to avoid with a little care. Your HVAC system works hard, so give it some love! Got a question about your AC, heater, or ducts? Drop a comment below or reach out, I’m here to help you become an airflow guru too.