When the cold weather arrives, keeping your home warm becomes the main priority. However, numerous myths regarding home heating can result in greater energy expenditures and inefficient systems. Let’s dispel some of the most frequent myths and reveal the truth.
Myth #1: Turning up the thermostat will heat your home faster.
When you go into a cold house, it’s tempting to push the thermostat up to the highest setting, but this doesn’t help the situation. Heating systems operate at a consistent rate, so setting it higher than your preferred temperature only loses energy as it exceeds the comfort zone.
Myth #2: Turning off vents in unused rooms saves energy.
While it may seem rational to prevent heat from rooms that aren’t in use, doing so can hurt your system. Forced-air systems are intended to disperse air uniformly; shutting vents causes pressure imbalances, which compel the system to work harder, thereby increasing wear and tear.
Myth #3: Larger heating systems are always better.
Oversized systems heat spaces quickly but unevenly, and they frequently cycle on and off. This short cycle wastes energy, which can lead to increased electricity bills and a shorter system lifespan. A correctly sized system is critical to efficiency and comfort.
Myth #4: Keep your thermostat at a constant temperature.
Many people feel that maintaining a constant temperature requires less energy than altering it during the day. In actuality, turning down the thermostat while you’re away or asleep can save you a lot of money on your energy bill. Smart thermostats make this modification simple and effective.
