DEBUNKED: 5 Common Myths About Heating Systems Everyone Should Stop Believing 

By James K Kim

As the mercury drops in Westchester County, New York, we hear a lot of heating system myths from clients that can easily be debunked. 

Here are the top 5 most common myths about heating systems many homeowners believe and why they are untrue.

Heating System Myth #1: 

“You need to turn on the heat as soon as the weather turns cold.”

Many homeowners assume that as soon as the temperature drops that they need to immediately turn on their home’s heating system.

Obviously, if the temperature drops low enough to warrant the heating be turned on, by all means feel free to do so as needed.

However, if it’s before or still relatively “early” in the heating season (typically late October/early November through late March/early April), then it may be worthwhile to wait until temperatures are consistently (e.g. for 5-7 days in a row) lower to help reduce utility costs and maintain indoor comfort. 

Heating System Myth #2: 

“Set the thermostat higher to heat the home faster.”  

This is another common heating myth that may make sense, but in reality doesn’t work that way.

No, cranking up the thermostat will not heat your home quicker. 

It will actually make your heating system run longer to reach the higher set temperature on the thermostat. As a result, your energy bills will increase while the heating equipment’s operational lifespan decreases. 

A more economical and realistic way of using your heating system is to simply set it to your normal desired temperature and be patient. 

As long as your heating system is working properly and has been maintained by a professional HVAC service technician, it should heat your home gradually and reach the set temperature. 

Heating System Myth #3: 

“Leave the heat on all day to save energy.” 

Depending on who you ask, this could be true…but for a very basic reason. 

Obviously, when you leave the heating system off, then it is not running and not using energy. So yes, you are saving energy by leaving it off. 

However, for many people (particularly those who reside in colder climates), simply leaving the heat off is not an option when it’s freezing outside. 

A better way to save energy without running the heat continuously is to invest in a smart thermostat. 

A smart thermostat is capable of automatically lowering the temperature while you’re away and setting it to warm up before anyone is expected home is an effective way of saving energy on heating. 

As a result, your system will be running less (meaning you will pay less for energy) but you will still be comfortable in the home. 

Heating System Myth #4: 

“You only need to call your HVAC service provider if there’s something wrong with the heating system.” 

This is only true if you have already had your seasonal heating maintenance performed by an HVAC service technician to ensure your system is safe and ready to use this heating season.

That’s because during the heating system maintenance visit, the technician will run through an extensive checklist of issues to identify and address. 

This includes any leaks, defective components, and any other potential problematic issues regarding the heating system that the owner should be made aware of. 

This simple yet important maintenance visit will help ensure your heating system is ready for cold weather and your home is kept warm and comfortable. 

Heating System Myth #5:

“Close the vents in unused rooms to help save money on heating.”

Many homeowners believe that by closing the register vents in unused rooms like a spare bedroom will help save money on their heating bills. 

Today’s modern heating systems are designed to heat the entire home, so each vent plays an important role in balancing the air flow of the heating system. 

So in reality, closing or blocking vents can increase heating costs while negatively impacting the overall system performance and decreasing operational lifespan of the equipment. 

You’re better off keeping all air vents/registers open (and unblocked from furniture, art, objects, etc.) This allows the system to function properly with proper air flow pressures. 

Don’t Believe the Myths, Trust the Experts

By following proven heating system practices coupled with regular seasonal heating maintenance, you can avoid many of the costly pitfalls of age-old fallacies about heating systems.  

If you’re a home or business owner in Westchester County, NY and in need of an HVAC service or equipment replacement, give Cottam Heating and Air Conditioning a call. 

Our professional heating and maintenance services will ensure your heating system will run efficiently, safely, and reliably all winter long.