6 Home Energy Myths Debunked

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There are plenty of methods for energy conservation in today’s world. However, it can be challenging to discern what is right from what is wrong at times.

If you’re surfing the internet for the right ways to save energy, please be aware of misconceptions. In the worst-case scenario, you follow such tips and end up raising your costs.

Ensure you conduct thorough research so that your efforts are not wasted. To help you do exactly that, here are some common home energy myths to watch out for.

1. Energy Efficiency is the same as Energy Conservation

Energy efficiency and energy conservation are often used interchangeably.

Do they mean the same?

No!

Energy conservation focuses on implementing methods that eventually lead to less energy. This could include something as simple as turning off lights or unplugging your computer system when not in use.

Energy efficiency is tied to technological innovations in home energy management systems, promoting a more sustainable and effective use of energy. For example, you can choose LED bulbs over incandescent ones.

Having said that, both energy conservation and energy efficiency aim to reduce consumption.

2. Turning Lights On and Off Consumes More Electricity

Are you really saving costs every time you turn on the lights?

Switching lights (other than LED ones) on and off frequently reduces their operating life. Eventually, the cost of new bulbs might be higher than the money you save on the electric bills.

So if you are confused about when to turn off your lights, better not to make that decision, thinking of increasing your energy bill.

That being said, remember to turn your lights off when you leave the room!

3. Leaving Appliances on Sleep Mode is Better

If you have read energy-saving appliance hacks, then you are well aware that energy-efficient appliances are home favourites.

But what you may not know is that setting them in sleep mode doesn’t save more energy. Myth busted!

Most appliances like computers, refrigerators, TVs, AC, and washing machines consume high energy.

Gadgets on stand-by use phantom power, aka ghost power. They secretly draw energy.

Hence, the only way to prevent this from happening is by switching them off completely.

4. Closing Vents Reduces Energy Usage

Closing vents in unoccupied or unused rooms for the purpose of reducing energy usage is common in all households. Sadly, this is a widespread misconception.

This is not just a myth, but a damaging one as well.

When you close HVAC circulation into rooms, it leads to an inefficient heating and cooling system due to pressure buildup. This, in turn, damages the ducts.

Doing this can adversely affect the balance created by the HVAC system based on the size and layout of your building. For efficient airflow throughout your home, make sure that the vents remain clean and open.

5. High Thermostat Level is More EFFECTIVE

Never fall for this energy-efficiency myth that thermostats set at high temperatures will warm rooms quickly.

This only wastes more energy by making the entire system run for a prolonged period. So always set the temperature at a desired level!

If you still feel confused about how to run a thermostat, we recommend installing a setback thermostat. This ensures automatic adjustment of the temperature at pre-set times.

6. Solar Panels are Expensive

The cost of solar panels is a hot topic when it comes to buying or building a new home. What most people don’t know is that they are pretty budget-friendly.

In the past decade, the prices of solar panels have come down sharply. At the same time, solar power for the home has become a basic necessity. Technological innovations have also helped lower installation costs.

To make solar panels more affordable to the public, governments across the world have introduced varying support policies.

Solar panels are not an expensive investment. They save energy in the long run.

Conclusion

Energy efficiency myths like these can lead you on the wrong path. Being aware of them helps you make the right choices. In turn, it will maximise your energy savings.

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This content is brought to you by Luke Peters

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