24 Jan Household Myths Most People Believe, But Shouldn’t
The inner workings of your home can be a bit of a mystery, which is how household myths begin and gain strength. Most are harmless, but some can cost you time and money. For sound advice, go to a pro like the ones at Cliff Bergin & Associates. Our NATE-certified technicians and licensed plumbers have seen it all, and can help you see the light!
Household Myth 1: I’ll Give My Furnace a Break by Closing Vents in Unused Rooms
When you close a supply vent, you increase pressure in your air ducts, which strains the blower that is designed to push a certain amount of air against a certain amount of pressure. This can be an issue if your duct system is not sized properly. Another way to manage temperatures in different rooms is with zoning or a ductless split system. Ask an expert at Cliff Bergin for more information.
Household Myth 2: I’m Saving Money With a Washable Air Filter
Electrostatic air filters are washable air filters that, in theory, never need to be replaced. While they do work and can save you money, they’re not for everyone. As the name implies, these filters rely on static electricity, which is only powerful enough to capture light dust, not larger particles or mold spores. This is not good news for you or your furnace, which is already going to have to work harder to move air through this filter’s eight to 10 layers. Most professionals would rather you use a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or media cartridge to help prevent allergy problems and prolong the life of your heating system.
Household Myth 3: Duct Cleaning Alone Will Improve Indoor Air Quality
Duct cleaning can be an effective air quality solution when paired with an efficient filtration system. Consider the highly rated Carrier® Infinity® air purifier. This filter works with your heating and air conditioning system to remove dust and other pollutants instead of recirculating them through your ducts. In addition, it is vitally important that your filter remains clean. We recommend a quarterly inspection of your filter to ensure it is clean and free of debris.
Household Myth 4: My Water Heater Sounds Like It’s Going to Explode
If your water heater starts clanging or popping, it’s usually because there’s sediment—like calcium from hard water—that has settled near the heating element at the bottom of the tank. When the burner turns on to warm your water, sediment prevents the heat from rising properly. It’s the popping of the resulting air bubbles that makes all that noise. Draining and flushing your water heater can help. However, if it’s an older unit that hasn’t been serviced regularly, you’re probably better off buying a new, energy-efficient system.
Household Myth 5: It’s OK to Flush Wipes
Just because these mini-washcloths will flush down a toilet, it doesn’t mean you should do it. Even if they say “flushable,” they take longer to degrade than bathroom tissue. That extra time is enough to create a serious clog in your entire sewer or septic line.
We’re Here to Help—Just Ask Our Home Experts
As a homeowner, you need someone you can rely on for good advice about your heating, air conditioning, air quality, and plumbing needs. In the metro Milwaukee area, Cliff Bergin is the better choice for straight-forward recommendations, experienced help, and cost-effective solutions. Just ask—we have countless long-time customers who came to us with a simple question and have kept coming back for honest, fair service.