When temperatures drop in Kamloops and across British Columbia, homeowners depend on their heating system to keep everyone warm and safe. But over the years, plenty of heating myths have circulated — and many of them can lead to higher utility bills, reduced performance, and unnecessary strain on your furnace or heat pump.
At KVA Mechanical Ltd., our certified team has more than 20 professional tickets and over 40 years of hands-on experience serving local homes. Below are the most common myths we hear from BC homeowners — and the real facts that can help you protect your home comfort.
Myth #1: “Closing vents in unused rooms saves energy.”
This is one of the most common misconceptions. Closing vents may seem like a good way to redirect heat, but it actually increases pressure inside your ductwork. This forces your furnace to work harder than it should, which can shorten equipment lifespan and raise energy costs. It’s far more efficient to keep vents open and allow proper airflow throughout the home.
Myth #2: “A bigger furnace heats your home better.”
Oversizing can cost you money. When your furnace is too large for your space, it will heat the house quickly and shut off before completing a proper cycle — a problem known as short cycling. This may cause inconsistent temperatures, added wear and tear, and higher heating bills. A correctly sized unit, recommended by one of our of certified technicians at KVA, performs best for Kamloops temperatures all year long.
Myth #3: “You only need to change your filter once a year.”
In reality, filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on factors such as wildfire smoke, dust, pets, smoking, and allergies. Dirty filters restrict airflow in your HVAC system and are one reason a furnace may break down in winter. A clean filter allows the system to run smoothly and keeps indoor air healthier.
Myth #4: “Turning the thermostat higher heats your home faster.”
Your furnace doesn’t speed up when you increase the temperature. It operates at the same pace no matter what. Setting the thermostat higher only makes the system run longer than necessary, wasting energy and overheating your home.
Myth #5: “Maintenance is only needed when something breaks.”
Preventive care is crucial. Annual maintenance keeps your system efficient, reduces the risk of surprise breakdowns, and can add years to your furnace’s life — especially during cold BC winters when heating systems work their hardest.
Trust the KVA Mechanical Team Since 1980
As a family-owned, BBB A+ rated company, KVA Mechanical is proud to provide honest advice and reliable heating solutions. If you’re unsure about your system, need repairs, or want to schedule a seasonal tune-up, our certified experts are here to help.
Contact us today or call (250) 554-0505 to book an HVAC checkup or a pre-winter maintenance service call. You can also visit us at 1139 12th St, Unit 10, Kamloops, BC V2B 7Z2.