Everyone from your great aunt to the evening news will try to give you tips on home energy efficiency. But it’s important to be aware that some of those tips, thanks to advances in technology and research may actually not be useful any longer. In fact, some of the tips that people have used for years may actually waste energy rather than save it. Energy myths are everywhere so be sure to do your research before attempting to save on your next bill. The following are some answers to the most popular myths.
1.) Although you may have an energy efficient appliances such as a washing machine, when it comes to the biggest appliances in your home, know that just installing a new efficient heater or air conditioner will not reduce your bills unless your home is ready for it. That is just a home energy myth. If you have an older home, it might not be as efficient to handle such appliance. Before you buy these newer models, perform a home energy audit. After your home has been checked for heat loss and any necessary repairs and installation are done, then you can move up to an efficient heater or furnace.
2.) The truth is, closing the heating vents in vacant rooms will not actually improve your furnace’s efficiency. That is a popular home energy myth. Your heating system is balanced for your home which means if the furnace isn’t heating the space it expects to, it can work harder and wear out much sooner. So it is better to install a zoned system instead of just closing off vents. With a zoned system you can control individual areas and only heat the rooms you’re using.
3.) Do not leave lights on. There is a home energy myth that turning on a light requires more energy than leaving it running. However, that is wrong. Turn off lights even if you leave the room for just a moment.
4.) When you leave the house or go to sleep, adjust the thermostat. Leaving your home at a constant temperature does not save you money. If you really want to save, install a programmable thermostat.
5.) Because only a small part of your home is made up of windows, the truth is, installing new ones will not reduce your energy bill as much as you might expect. Instead, protect your windows with weatherstripping.
