Heating your home can be expensive, especially in our neck of the woods when winter is at its worst. So, it’s no surprise that homeowners are always on the lookout for ways to save money on their heating bills. While there are many tips out there that are helpful, some can do more harm to your bank account than good.
Below is a list of the most common home heating myths that you may have believed to be true but are actually costing you money.
Close Vents to Save Money
Has anyone ever told you to close the vents in unused rooms to save money on heating costs? Doing this is counterproductive and can cost you money as it forces your heating system to work harder and use more energy. Keep all vents open and free of obstructions so that air can properly circulate throughout your home.
Turn Your Heater Off While Away from Home
Instead of turning your heating system off completely, lower the temperature on the thermostat. Otherwise, it will need to run longer and use more energy to return your home to a comfortable temperature once you return. Better yet, install a programmable smart-thermostat that allows you to adjust the temperature from just about anywhere.
It’s Cheaper to Heat Your Home with a Space Heater
Electric space heaters can provide added warmth, however they should not be used as a primary source of heat. They can be more expensive to operate than other types of heating systems and pose a serious fire hazard if not used correctly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and never leave a space heater unattended. And if your heating system isn’t delivering the warmth it once did to any area of your home, have it inspected by a licensed HVAC technician.
Crank the Thermostat Up to Warm Your Home Faster
When you want to get warm fast, it may be tempting to spike the thermostat. The truth is that your heating system can’t pump out more heat just because you set the temperature higher. Instead, it heats your home for longer periods of time, using more energy than it would had you set the thermostat to your ideal temp.
Ceiling Fans Are Only for Summertime
A ceiling fan helps you feel cool and provides a gentle breeze on a hot day. But that same fan can be used to your advantage come winter. Simply turn the switch on the fan to run in reverse (clockwise). Since warm air rises, it will push the air that’s trapped near the ceiling down to the center of the room, causing your home to feel warmer. In turn, this takes a little pressure off your heating system, allowing you to turn the temp down by a few degrees.
You Don’t Need Annual Heating System Maintenance
An annual inspection and tune-up is essential for your heating system to operate as efficiently as possible for as long as possible. With regular use, the equipment can loosen, lose lubrication, fall out of alignment, and develop any number of problems. While these “minor” problems are easy to fix during a tune-up appointment, if ignored, they can lead to much more significant, pricey repairs down the road. What’s more, regular maintenance helps keep the manufacturer’s warranty intact.
Need Help with Your Heating Needs?
If your system isn’t providing the consistent, reliable heat it once did, contact Air Professional Associates today. Whether it’s in need of repair or an inspection and tune-up, you can be sure our home comfort pros will get the job done and to your complete satisfaction. And if it’s time for a new system, we can assist you with that as well. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!