We have all heard the "classic" advice for saving money on home energy efficiency. Some of these tips have been passed down for generations, while others are modern misconceptions born from a misunderstanding of how HVAC systems work.
The problem? Following the wrong advice can actually drive your energy costs higher and put unnecessary strain on your equipment. Here is the truth behind common energy efficiency myths.
Myth 1: Turning the Thermostat Way Down (or Up) Cools the House Faster
The Reality: Most HVAC systems work at a single speed. Setting your thermostat to 60 degrees when it is 80 degrees inside won't make the air come out any colder; it simply keeps the system running for a longer period of time. What Works: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to gradually adjust temperatures based on when you are home.
Myth 2: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
The Reality: Modern HVAC systems are designed and balanced to move a specific amount of air throughout the entire house. When you close vents, you create pressure imbalances. This forces the blower fan to work harder and can even cause leaks in your ductwork. What Works: Keep all vents open to maintain proper airflow and pressure. If you have rooms that are consistently too hot or cold, consider a professional duct inspection or a zoning system.
Myth 3: It Takes More Energy to Reheat a House Than to Leave the Heat On
The Reality: This is one of the most persistent myths. Heat naturally moves from warmer spaces to cooler spaces. If your heater is running all day while you are at work, it is constantly fighting that heat loss. Allowing the house to cool down (or warm up in summer) while you are away reduces the "driving force" of that heat transfer, meaning less total energy is used over a 24-hour period. What Works: Set your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees back from its normal setting for eight hours a day to save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling.
Myth 4: Replacing Old Windows is the Best First Step
The Reality: While new windows are great, they are often the most expensive and least cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency. You will usually wait decades to see a return on investment through energy savings alone. What Works: Focus on air sealing and insulation first. Sealing gaps around doors, attic hatches, and plumbing penetrations—and ensuring your attic has the proper R-value of insulation—provides a much faster ROI.
Myth 5: Energy-Efficient Appliances Automatically Lower Your Bill
The Reality: An Energy Star appliance is only efficient if it is used correctly. For example, a high-efficiency dishwasher still uses a significant amount of energy if you run it half-empty every night. What Works: Combine efficient technology with efficient habits. Run full loads, use "eco" modes, and perform regular maintenance like cleaning refrigerator coils and HVAC filters.
Final Thoughts
Improving your home's efficiency does not have to be expensive or complicated. By ignoring these common myths and focusing on air sealing, proper thermostat management, and routine maintenance, you can keep your home comfortable while keeping your bank account full.
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