Don’t Believe These Popular Home Energy Myths

The most common home energy myths are either based on incomplete information or facts that have long been debunked over time. Don’t waste energy this summer by implementing the home energy myths presented below. Instead, you should learn some true ways to save big.

• Myth: Investing in an efficient air conditioner will automatically result in lower energy bills. Of course, more efficient equipment has the potential to lower your energy bills, but it’s not the only factor at play. You must also size and install your system correctly to get the most out of it. Furthermore, you should seal all ductwork to prevent any air leaks.
• Myth: Cranking down the thermostat cools off the home faster. Many people falsely think of heating and cooling like a gas pedal — the harder you press, the faster the car gets up to speed. However, your thermostat is more like a light switch; it’s either on or off, with nothing in between. Cranking the temperature down to 65 degrees risks going beyond your ideal comfort zone, wasting energy in the process.
• Myth: Keeping the lights on helps bulbs last longer and consume less energy than turning them on and off. This myth is based on outdated information. It was once the case that flipping a light on and off drastically reduced a bulb’s lifespan, but better design has gotten rid of this problem. As for energy consumption, the small power surge generated when you turn on a light is far less energy-consuming than leaving it on for even five minutes when it’s not needed.
• Myth: High-efficiency homes cost more than conventional homes. Actually, in many cases, energy-efficient homes with passive solar lighting, well-designed ductwork and tightly sealed walls don’t cost any more than conventional homes. However, they do boast significantly lower operating costs.

At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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