Eight Common Heating Myths Debunked

There are many myths out there about home heating that create confusion and inefficient furnace usage. It’s time to set the record straight.

Here, the heating authorities at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing debunk the eight most common myths to keep your home comfortable and decrease your heating bills.

Myth 1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Money

The concept that closing vents saves on heating costs is a widespread misconception. But your heating equipment is designed to heat your residence with a balanced flow of return and supply air. Shutting vents throws off this balance, oftentimes leading to pressure buildup, overheating and increased energy use. For that reason you should keep at least 80% of your vents open continually to promote even heating and more efficient energy use. If you’re interested in heating certain rooms more than others, look into installing a zoning system.

Myth 2: Setting Your Thermostat and Then Leaving It Alone Is More Efficient Than Raising and Lowering It

This myth originates from the idea that reheating a cold house takes more energy than maintaining a constant temperature. While this has some truth to it, dialing back the temperature sometimes can result in energy savings. The U.S. Department of Energy states that scheduling a 7- to 10-degree setback period for eight hours a day can save up to 10% on your heating bills. The only time this wouldn’t be true is if you have a heat pump, which employs a backup electric resistance heater during the recovery period. However, you can solve this challenge with a special heat pump thermostat.

The best way to make the most of setback periods is to set up a programmable thermostat. This way, the temperature is once again at a a comfortable setting before you get home from work or wake up in the morning.

Myth 3: Setting the Thermostat to a Higher Temperature Warms Your Home More Quickly

If you start feeling cold, it may seem enticing to raise the temperature as high as possible. The thought here is that, like pushing down harder on a gas pedal, raising the temperature higher heats the home faster. But the truth is your heater works at the same rate irrespective of how high the thermostat is set. If you’re cold, put on a sweater and turn up the temperature a degree or two so it doesn’t get uncomfortably hot and end up wasting electricity or fuel.

Myth 4: Space Heaters Work Great for Cold Spots

Using space heaters to deal with cold spots is not a good long-term solution. Your HVAC system is designed to heat your entire home, so if there are cold spots, this indicates an issue with your insulation or ductwork. In addition, space heaters can be a safety hazard if operated unattended. They also utilize a lot of energy, leading to bigger energy bills.

Myth 5: There’s No Need for a Tune-Up if the Furnace Works Fine

It’s a common misconception that if your heating system works, everything is fine, and it doesn’t need a tune-up. Along those same lines, many homeowners think that a new furnace doesn’t have to have seasonal maintenance for the first few years. However, all furnaces can use regular maintenance, regardless of age. Seasonal tune-ups encourage efficiency, prevent breakdowns and can extend system life span. A maintenance visit is also the ideal time for a professional to find and repair little issues before they turn into bigger, more costly problems.

Myth 6: You Shouldn’t Replace a Furnace Until It Breaks Down for Good

Even though you want to utilize your furnace for its entire life, waiting for it to break down completely is not advisable. Timely furnace replacement prevents an emergency during freezing weather. Indeed, it’s an investment, but new, more energy-efficient furnaces can save you a great deal on your energy bills and improve overall home comfort.

Myth 7: The Bigger the Furnace, the Better

When it comes to HVAC systems, it’s not a good idea to pick the biggest unit possible. Installing a furnace that’s too powerful for your living space can lead to repeated cycling, which is inefficient and wears out the system faster. Call a trusted heating and cooling professional, like the crew at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, who can help you choose an ideal furnace for your home based on factors like square footage, layout and climate.

Myth 8: The Furnace Brand Is the Most Crucial Decision

Though the brand of furnace is relevant, the installation service provider is actually more critical. Correct installation is the key to efficient and effective operation. Research and pick an experienced and reputable company for furnace installation to get the most out of your investment.

Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Heating Service in the U.S.

Now that you know the truth behind these heating myths, you’re ready to enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient home in the U.S.. For more help, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can fix all your comfort dilemmas with quick, lasting solutions. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, meaning we’re not satisfied until you are. For professional service that makes a meaningful difference in your life, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Call 866-397-3787 today to schedule an appointment!