Eight Popular Heating Misconceptions Debunked

There are lots of myths out there about home heating that lead to confusion and inefficient furnace operation. It’s time to set the record straight.

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

Myth 1: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Cash

The concept that closing vents saves on heating spending is a prevalent 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. Therefore, 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 keeping your thermostat at one temperature all the time. While this has some truth to it, changing the temperature in some situations does produce 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 as much as 10% on your heating bills. The only time this is not true is if you are operating a a heat pump, which uses a backup electric resistance heater during the recovery period. Although, you can solve this dilemma with a special heat pump thermostat.

The best way to take advantage of setback periods is to set up a programmable thermostat. When you do this, the temperature resumes to 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 a chill, it seems like a good idea to raise the temperature as high as possible. The thought here is that, like pushing down all the way on a gas pedal, raising the temperature to a very high temperature heats the home more rapidly. But the truth is your heater works at the same rate no matter how high the thermostat is set. If you’re cold, put on a sweater and increase the temperature a degree or two to avoid overheating your home and wasting electricity or fuel.

Myth 4: Space Heaters Are a Good Way to Heat Cold Spots

Using space heaters to combat cold spots is not the best long-term remedy to a heating problem. Your heating and cooling system is designed to heat your entire home, so if there are cold areas, this indicates an issue with your insulation or ductwork. In addition, space heaters can be a safety hazard if operated unattended. They also consume a lot of energy, leading to higher energy bills.

Myth 5: You Don’t Need Preventive Furnace Maintenance

It’s a common misconception that if your heating system runs, everything is fine, and it doesn’t need a tune-up. Similarly, many homeowners believe that a new furnace doesn’t have to have seasonal maintenance for the first few years. However, all furnaces can run better with regular maintenance, regardless of age. Annual tune-ups encourage efficiency, prevent breakdowns and can prolong system life span. A maintenance appointment is also the ideal time for a technician to diagnose and fix little issues before they turn into bigger, more costly problems.

Myth 6: Wait for the Furnace to Break Down Before Replacing It

Although you want to make use of your furnace for its entire life, waiting for it to break down completely is not advisable. Preventive furnace replacement reduces the chances of an emergency during cold weather. Yes, it’s an investment, but new, more energy-efficient furnaces can save you a surprising amount on your energy bills and increase 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. A furnace that’s too big can lead to continual cycling, which is inefficient and wears out the system more quickly. Rely on the advice of a trusted heating and cooling professional, like the crew at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, who can help you select an ideal furnace for your home based on factors like square footage, layout and climate.

Myth 8: Buying a Certain Brand of Furnace Is the Way to Get a Warm Home

While the manufacturer is important, the installation service provider is much more critical. Correct installation is the key to efficient and effective operation. Research and locate an experienced and reputable company for furnace installation to get the biggest bang for your buck out of your investment.

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

Now that you know the cold, hard facts 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 address all your comfort issues with speedy, lasting solutions. All of our service is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, meaning we’re not satisfied until you are. For expert service that makes a significant difference in your life, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Call 866-397-3787 today to schedule an appointment!