As the new year approaches, many homeowners are starting to think about how they can make their homes more comfortable and efficient. While there’s no shortage of advice out there, not all of it is true!
Home comfort myths have a way of sticking around, even though they’re outdated or just plain wrong. In 2025, let’s leave these myths behind and embrace better ways to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Here are a few common home comfort myths you can forget in the new year.
1. Turning Your Thermostat Up Really High Heats Your Home Faster
This is one of the most persistent myths around, but unfortunately, it’s simply not true. Your heating system works at a consistent rate, no matter how high you set your thermostat. If you crank it up to 80 degrees when it’s cold outside, all you’re doing is wasting energy. In fact, it could actually make your system work harder, causing it to wear out sooner. For optimal comfort, set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and let your system work at its usual pace.
2. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
The idea here is that by closing vents in rooms you don’t use, you can save energy by directing all the airflow to the spaces you’re living in. However, this is actually a myth. Most modern heating systems are designed to work best when all vents are open. Closing vents can increase the pressure in your ducts and cause your system to work inefficiently. If you’re looking to save energy, try adjusting your thermostat, sealing drafts, or adding insulation rather than closing off vents.
3. Space Heaters Are a Good Substitute for Central Heating
It’s tempting to rely on space heaters to keep warm during those chilly months, but they aren’t a perfect substitute for your central heating system. Space heaters can be effective in small areas, but they are less energy-efficient and can be dangerous if not used properly. They can overload circuits, cause fires, or even dry out the air in your home. Instead, focus on maintaining your central heating system, ensuring it’s properly serviced, and using space heaters sparingly as a supplement to your primary system.
5. A Bigger System Is Better
Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to heating and cooling your home. Some homeowners think that the larger the heating and cooling system, the better the performance, but this isn’t the case. An oversized system can actually lead to inefficiency, poor air circulation, and humidity problems. A professional technician can help you determine the right size system for your home, so you’re not wasting energy or money.
6. Turning Off Your Heat at Night Saves Money
Some people believe that turning off your heat at night or when you leave the house will save you money, but this myth can actually backfire. Your system has to work harder to bring your home back to a comfortable temperature after a long break, using more energy in the process. Instead, consider setting your thermostat a few degrees lower when you’re away or asleep, and use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when needed.
Home Comfort Experts in the Quad Cities
As we say goodbye to 2024 and look ahead to 2025, let’s leave these home comfort myths behind and embrace a new year of efficiency and comfort.
At Total Maintenance Inc., we’re here to help you keep your home running smoothly with expert heating and plumbing services. Whether you need a furnace tune-up, a plumbing inspection, or just some advice on how to improve your home’s comfort, our team is ready to help. Just give us a call at 563.900.8788