With energy costs on the rise, homeowners are constantly searching for ways to keep their heating bills manageable—especially as winter approaches. Staying warm is vital for safety, but homes also need adequate heating to prevent issues like frozen pipes and burst lines.
“Under pressure, people will try anything to lower their bills, even myths that have no proven benefit,” says Llewellyn Kinch, chief executive and co-founder of MakeMyHouseGreen.
“It’s easy to trust these myths when they come from well-meaning friends or family, but many are wildly outdated,” adds Kinch.
Drawing on years of expertise, he shares the top heating myths he encounters that could be adding to your bills rather than lowering them. Follow Kinch’s tips to save money, protect the environment, and keep your home safe this winter.
Myth 1: Closing Vents and Doors in Unused Rooms Will Save Energy and Money
Myth Bust: Shutting doors in unused rooms can seem like a good idea for saving heat, but in homes with central heating, it often backfires. When doors are closed, it can create uneven heating and make the central heating system work harder to maintain the desired temperature in open areas.
Kinch explains, “Instead, keep internal doors open to allow warm air to circulate effectively, which helps reduce strain on your system and maintains even warmth throughout your home.”
Myth 2: Cranking Up the Thermostat Will Heat a Home Faster
Myth Bust: Turning the thermostat to a high temperature will only increase your bills and carbon footprint on the planet, not make your home heat up any faster.
“Your heating system will work at the same rate regardless of the temperature setting,” Kinch informs us. “The best approach is to set your thermostat to a comfortable and practical temperature that your home can sustain.”
Myth 3: Myth: All Insulation is Created Equal
Myth Bust: There are different types of insulation, and not all of them are equally effective. “It's important to research and choose the best type of insulation for your home based on factors such as the type of material, thickness, and R-value. Proper insulation can greatly reduce heating costs,” says Kinch.
Myth 4: It's More Cost-Effective To Use A Space Heater Or Electric Blanket
Myth Bust: While space heaters and electric blankets may seem more cost-effective because they only heat a small area, they are actually more expensive than central heating. These appliances use a lot of energy and can quickly add to your energy bill. It's best to use them sparingly and rely on your central heating system.
Myth 5: The Bigger The Boiler, The Better
Myth Bust: “Many people believe that a bigger boiler will heat their home more efficiently when, in reality, an oversized boiler can burn too much energy and waste money in the process,” warns Kinch. “Choosing the right size and type of boiler for your home will ensure your comfort without running up the bill or damaging the environment.”
Llewellyn Kinch, chief executive and co-founder of Make My House Green, comments: “Many myths about energy usage were sparked years ago when home systems weren’t nearly as efficient as today. I look to my grandmother for many life lessons, but heating my home is not one of them. Staying current on the latest technology and enlisting the help of qualified professionals is the best way to save money and reduce your environmental impact.
“Always do your own research with proper industry experts. There are too many myths out there that could lead you down the wrong path and cost you money in the process. Utilise expert experience to your advantage to save money and the planet.”
https://makemyhousegreen.com/