Furnaces have been a top choice for heating homes for over 100 years. Unfortunately, during that time, several myths have emerged that can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary furnace repairs.
Let’s debunk these common furnace myths and set the record straight.
Myth #1: Closing air vents and registers in unused rooms saves energy Many homeowners believe that shutting vents in unused rooms reduces energy consumption. However, this actually disrupts airflow and forces your furnace to work harder. Your HVAC system is designed to distribute air evenly throughout your home. Blocking vents can create air pressure imbalances, leading to inefficient heating and potential duct leaks.
A better approach? Instead of closing vents, use natural heat sources by opening curtains during the day and closing them at night for insulation.
Myth #2: Turning up the thermostat will heat the home faster Raising the thermostat to a higher setting won’t speed up heating—it simply tells your system to run longer. Your furnace heats at a consistent rate, no matter how high you set the thermostat.
Not only does cranking up the heat waste energy, but it also increases wear and tear on your system. To maintain comfort efficiently, consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat.
Myth #3: A smart thermostat is a high-tech waste of money If you don’t utilize the features of a smart thermostat, it won’t provide much benefit. However, when used properly, a smart thermostat can optimize temperature control and reduce energy costs.
Smart thermostats allow you to schedule temperature adjustments, control settings remotely via an app, and receive maintenance reminders. Additionally, if you opt into American Standard Diagnostics, your HVAC dealer can monitor system performance and potentially resolve issues remotely, preventing costly repairs.
Myth #4: Space heaters are more efficient than a furnace While space heaters can provide supplemental warmth for small areas, they are not a cost-effective way to heat an entire home. Many space heaters consume significant energy while covering only limited spaces.
If you experience cold spots, consider professional furnace maintenance or duct cleaning. An HVAC expert can suggest solutions to improve heating efficiency without relying on energy-draining space heaters.
Myth #5: Regular furnace maintenance isn’t necessary Just because your furnace is running doesn’t mean it doesn’t need upkeep. Like a car needing regular oil changes, your furnace requires routine maintenance to operate efficiently.
One simple but crucial task is changing the furnace filter every 30-90 days, depending on the filter type and household conditions (such as pet ownership). A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.
Final Thoughts Believing in these furnace myths can cost you money and reduce your system’s efficiency. The best way to keep your home warm and energy-efficient is through proper usage, regular maintenance, and investing in modern technology like smart thermostats.
For expert guidance and professional furnace maintenance, consult an HVAC professional today.
