Debunking common myths for a warmer, more efficient home
When it comes to home heating, there are a lot of misconceptions that can lead to wasted energy, higher bills, and unnecessary stress. In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about home heating and help you separate fact from fiction so you can heat your home more efficiently and effectively.
1.“Turning Off Radiators or Underfloor Heating in Unused Rooms Saves Energy”
It’s a common belief that shutting off radiators or underfloor zones in unused rooms will save energy and reduce heating costs. While it can make sense in some cases, it’s not always the energy-saving trick people think it is.
Why It’s a Myth:
Air-to-water heat pump systems are designed to run efficiently across a balanced, circulating system. When you turn off radiators or underfloor loops in certain rooms—particularly without proper zoning—it can disrupt water flow and make the system work harder to maintain the set temperature in other areas.
This can actually reduce system efficiency, increase wear on the pump, and lead to uneven heating throughout your home.
The Truth:
If you’re looking to reduce heating in unused rooms, the most effective approach is to use a properly zoned system that allows you to control individual areas without disrupting the overall water flow. Rather than shutting off heating entirely, it’s better to simply lower the thermostat in those zones. Make sure rooms are well insulated to prevent unnecessary heat loss, and ensure your system has been correctly commissioned—so reducing heat in one area doesn’t compromise performance across the rest of your home.
2. “Turning the Thermostat Up High Heats the Home Faster”
One of the most common heating myths is that cranking the thermostat up high will heat your home more quickly. This might seem like an efficient way to warm up a cold house, but it’s not.
Why It’s a Myth:
Heating systems are designed to heat your home at a constant rate, no matter what temperature you set the thermostat to. Turning the thermostat higher will not make the room warm up any faster—it will just make the system work harder and run longer than necessary.
The Truth:
The thermostat only signals when the heating system should turn on and off. Setting it to a comfortable temperature (like 20°C to 22°C) is ideal for efficiency. To save energy, try using a programmable thermostat that can adjust the temperature throughout the day based on your schedule.
3. “Space Heaters Are Always a Good Alternative to Central Heating”
Space heaters are often seen as a quick fix to heat individual rooms without running the central heating system. While they can be useful in some situations, they’re not always the best option.
Why It’s a Myth:
Space heaters are generally designed for short-term use and can consume a lot of electricity, especially if you leave them running for long periods of time. They can also pose safety risks if not properly maintained or used in rooms without proper ventilation.
The Truth:
If you find yourself constantly using space heaters, it might be time to consider upgrading or repairing your central heating system. Central heating is designed to heat your entire home more efficiently. If you only need heat in one room, a space heater can be effective in the short term—but don’t rely on them as a permanent solution.
4. “You Should Turn Off the Heat When You’re Not Home”
Some people believe it’s better to turn off the heat completely when they leave the house to save on energy costs. While this approach might save you a small amount in the short term, it’s not the most efficient way to manage your heating.
Why It’s a Myth:
Turning off your heating system entirely means your home will cool down, and when you return, your system will have to work harder to warm up the space again. This can actually use more energy than keeping your heating system running at a lower, consistent temperature while you’re away.
The Truth:
A more efficient approach is to lower the thermostat while you’re out or asleep. Using a programmable thermostat allows you to set specific times for the temperature to drop and rise, so you won’t waste energy when you’re not home but will always return to a comfortable temperature.
5. “Newer Homes Are Always More Energy Efficient”
While newer homes often come with modern energy-efficient features, this doesn’t always mean they’re automatically more energy efficient than older homes.
Why It’s a Myth:
Just because a home is new doesn’t mean it’s properly insulated, sealed, or equipped with efficient heating systems. The overall energy efficiency of a home depends on a variety of factors, including insulation, the age of the heating system, windows, and how well the home is maintained.
The Truth:
Regardless of how new your home is, you should always have your heating system inspected regularly and ensure that your home is properly insulated. Even new homes can benefit from extra weatherproofing and maintenance to reduce heating costs and improve efficiency.
6. “A Bigger Heater Is Better”
When replacing a heating system, some homeowners assume that a larger unit will be more effective at warming up their home. However, bigger is not always better.
Why It’s a Myth:
A heating system that is too large for your home can actually lead to inefficiency. Oversized units may heat the space too quickly, causing the system to cycle on and off more frequently, which wastes energy and can lead to uneven temperatures.
The Truth:
The key to an efficient heating system is sizing it correctly for your home. A heating professional can help determine the right size unit based on factors like your home’s square footage, insulation, and climate. A properly sized system will run more efficiently and keep your home comfortable without wasting energy.
7. “Air-to-Water Heat Pumps Don’t Need Annual Maintenance”
Because air-to-water heat pumps are highly efficient and run quietly in the background, many homeowners assume they don’t need much (or any) maintenance. But that’s a myth—and ignoring it can reduce performance and shorten your system’s lifespan.
Why It’s a Myth:
While these systems don’t use air filters like air-to-air heat pumps or ducted systems, they still need regular servicing. Air-to-water heat pumps rely on consistent water flow, well-balanced pressure, and clean internal components to operate efficiently. Over time, things like air bubbles, limescale, or sludge can build up in the pipes and heat exchanger—especially in areas with hard water or older homes with steel pipework.
The Truth:
To keep your air-to-water heat pump running at its best, it should be serviced annually. This includes checking pressure, flushing the system, cleaning strainers, and making sure zoning and controls are working properly. Also keep an eye on it during winter, clear any debris from the outdoor unit,
By debunking these common myths, we hope you can now make more informed decisions about how to heat your home efficiently. The truth is that simple changes, like maintaining your heating system, setting your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, and improving your home’s insulation, can save you money and energy in the long run. Don’t fall for myths—trust in the facts, and your home will stay warm and energy-efficient all season long!