Ask a Tech: Spring Maintenance Myths Busted

Spring is in the air - and with it comes the urge to freshen up everything from closets to yard tools. But what about your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems? There’s a lot of advice floating around this time of year, and not all of it is accurate. So before you tackle your spring to-do list, let’s bust a few common myths that could be doing your home more harm than good.

To clear things up, we went straight to the source. We asked a few Atlas Butler techs to weigh in on some of the most common spring maintenance myths. Here’s what they had to say, along with a few helpful tips to keep your home comfortable, efficient, and problem-free as the weather warms up.

Myth: You only need to get your HVAC system maintenance once a year

• The truth: Think of it like getting a seasonal tune-up.

Most HVAC systems benefit from maintenance twice a year: once in the spring before A/C season begins and again in the fall before it’s time to turn the heat on. Spring is a great time to make sure your A/C is running efficiently and safely. Regular maintenance helps catch small issues such as clogged filters, low refrigerant levels, or worn-out parts before they turn into more significant and expensive problems.

Myth: All air filters are the same

• The truth: Filters may look similar, but what’s inside matters.

“A lot of people think the higher the MERV rating, the better the filter. But that’s not always true,” says Adam L., Atlas Butler HVAC Tech. “Higher-rated filters do catch more particles, but they also restrict airflow, especially in homes with high static pressure, which most people have. That extra resistance makes your blower motor work harder and can shorten your system’s lifespan.” Atlas Butler recommends filters with a MERV rating of 10 or 13. These offer a good balance between capturing airborne particles and allowing proper airflow throughout your system.

Myth: If it’s not broken, don’t fix it

• The truth: Preventive maintenance helps you stay ahead of problems.

Waiting until something breaks often leads to costly heating and cooling repairs or emergency service calls. Routine maintenance helps catch wear and tear early, improves system performance, and extends the life of your equipment. A quick seasonal check-up now can save you a major headache later.

Myth: You don’t need to check your sump pump until it rains

• The truth: If you're waiting for a storm, it might already be too late.

"My brother said the same thing. Now he has a backup sump pump because his basement flooded," says Michael H., Atlas Butler Plumbing Tech. Even when the weather is dry, it’s smart to test your sump pump regularly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure the system turns on and drains properly. It only takes a few minutes and could prevent serious water damage later.

Myth: Closing vents in unused rooms saves money

• The truth: This can actually reduce system efficiency.

Your HVAC system is designed to keep your entire home comfortable. Closing off vents disrupts airflow and increases pressure in the ductwork. This makes your system work harder. Over time, that added stress can lead to strain on the system, which can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and even equipment damage.

Myth: You only need to replace your furnace filter once a year

• The truth: Filters should be replaced more often, usually every one to three months.

Clean filters help your system run efficiently and maintain better indoor air quality. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a high-pollen area, you should replace them more frequently. A clean filter also helps reduce strain on your system, which can extend its lifespan.

Atlas Butler is here for your HVAC Maintenance Needs

Atlas Butler is here to help. Whether you're prepping your HVAC system for warmer weather or making sure your plumbing is ready for spring storms, our techs are available 24/7 to keep your home safe and comfortable.

Call 1-800-FURNACE or visit atlasbutler.com to schedule your seasonal maintenance today.