5 Common Home Heating Myths

As winters get longer and colder year after year, homeowners have developed many strategies and theories they think might help them minimize the cost of heating their home during winter. It is important to note that only some of these strategies actually work. Many of them are just myths which might actually increase their heating bill. The following are five of the most common home heating myths and the truth about them.

1. Duct Tape is Perfect for Sealing Ducts

As the name suggests, duct tape was designed for sealing ducts, so they must be great for sealing air ducts. Right? Well, the answer is no. Research has shown that duct tape easily comes off the ducts after several heating cycles. The good news is that there are several other great tapes on the market which can be used for sealing ducts.

2. Lighting the Fireplace can Help Reduce Heating Costs

It is easy to understand why many homeowners have believed this myth. After all, the fireplace produces heat which can help raise indoor temperatures. Well, according to experts, burning wood in the fireplace diminishes the amount of oxygen available for breathing. Furthermore, the fire will burn air-conditioned air. The fireplace also requires firewood, which must be bought.

3. Programmable Thermostats Adjust Indoor Temperatures Automatically

This is a common myth. The truth is that you have to input the desired settings manually and readjust the settings until you are comfortable with the operation of your heating system.

4. You Can Heat Up Your Home Faster by Cranking Up the Thermostat

There is a common misconception that adjusting your thermostat to a higher setting will force the heating system to work harder to heat your home faster. The truth, however, is that the thermostat cannot control how much heat is produced. It only determines when the heater is turned on or off, so cranking it up will not help you in any way.

5. Energy-Saving Windows Can Reduce your Heating Costs

Energy saving windows are energy efficient, but they are also expensive. The energy savings you will get from using these windows is significantly lower than the cost of procuring and installing the windows. It will take you several decades to recoup the cost of installing these windows, hence not a cost effective option.

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