Debunking 4 Common HVAC Myths Before Winter Hits

As the weather gets worse and the temperature drops, being in the know of what is true and what isn’t about your HVAC system is vital to staying ahead of the curve. Don’t fall for HVAC misconceptions this winter, and search to get the straight facts to keep your Winnipeg home cozy and efficient all season long. 

At Whyte Ridge HVAC, we value honest advice rooted in expertise. Let’s help you to find and bust four myths that might be costing you comfort, money, and energy.

Myth 1: Bigger is Better

Reality: The classic phrase “bigger is better” has been used in various industries for years. Bigger means more power and better value, right? Well, not quite. When selecting a new HVAC system, it is beneficial to seek advice on which machines would work best, rather than focusing on the largest or most powerful ones. If a system is too powerful, it could short-cycle and stop working, causing possibly irreversible damage. In essence, it is possible to pay for an HVAC system that is too powerful, resulting in a harmful effect on your home later on. This could call for replacement parts, or if the damage is bad enough, a replacement of the HVAC system altogether.


At Whyte Ridge, we can help you find and install the furnace and systems that you need to heat your home reliably, whether that be in the fall and winter or all year round.

Myth 2: HVAC Maintenance Is Optional in Winter

Reality: Skipping seasonal inspections can lead to reduced efficiency or unexpected breakdowns during the coldest times of the year. Regular maintenance can ensure safety, maintain furnace performance, and possibly help preserve manufacturer warranties. It is suggested to schedule a tune-up and inspection before fall or winter as to beat the rush later and avoid long wait times on a list. Going into the season without a checked HVAC system is like driving on ice without tire chains: Sooner or later, you are going to end up sidelined in the cold.

At Whyte Ridge, we believe that annual check-ups, and these preferably before winter arrives, can ensure your system runs smoothly all season.

Myth 3: The Location of Your Thermostat Doesn’t Make a Difference

Reality: The location of your thermostat is vital to the heating and cooling of your house. Thermostats have sensors that detect how warm your house is to give the furnace an accurate reading and let it heat properly. If the thermostat is on an exterior wall, in view of sunlight, close to windows, or near larger household appliances like the oven, its heat reading could be influenced by them and be incorrect. This could lead to a loss of heating efficiency, uneven heating, and possibly an increase in your energy bills due to your furnace working harder than it may need to to compensate for a false reading.

At Whyte Ridge, we can help advise you on your thermostat, and give it a tune-up to ensure it is in a good spot and giving proper temperature readings.

Myth 4: If it Isn’t Broken, Don’t Fix it

Reality: Regardless if something is broken or not, it may be wise to replace or upgrade it. Whether it be a single component or an entire furnace, watching for the small warning signs and knowing about risks to your equipment is vital in keeping your home warm all season long. Like a car, a furnace can become too old to be effective, even with proper replacement parts or maintenance. Of course, this requires careful research on the part of the homeowner, and not every experience will be the same. But it is still something to take into consideration when thinking about your HVAC system functions year to year. Hearing strange noises or smelling something akin to smoke? It may be time for a practical upgrade.

At Whyte Ridge, we can help you find a replacement for your old furnace at an agreeable price, without the hassle of being upsold or overwhelmed by too many choices.

Planning For a More Informed and Better Tomorrow

Knowing the difference between misinformation and truth can be extremely helpful when it comes to your HVAC system and furnace. Cutting through to the core can help save a lot of time and money, as well as help to keep your house warm through the colder months.


Are you ready for fall and this upcoming winter? Contact us today, and we can help you prepare for the cold the right way and without any confusion over what is true and what isn’t.

A technician stands proudly next to a beautiful cozy house with snow on its roof. Whyte Ridge HVAC is ready to help you be properly prepared for the cold this coming winter season.