Reducing your energy usage not only brings down your costs, but it also preserves your HVAC system. Many people try different techniques to save energy; however, some of those practices may actually affect the heating and cooling system. Below are a few energy-saving myths and the truth behind them so you can take appropriate and effective steps to cut your bills.

3 Ways You’ve Been Increasing Your HVAC Usage

1. Setting the Thermostat Higher Heats Your Home Faster

During the colder months, you may turn the thermostat as high as it possibly goes quickly warm up your home. However, setting a higher temperature won’t make your HVAC system run any faster than it would if you set it low. This technique drives up your bills and causes your system to work harder than it needs to. 

2. Leaving a Fan Running Keeps the Room Cool

Fans are useful tools that cool rooms during higher temperatures. Many people think that leaving a fan running in a room will cool it down, regardless of whether they’re currently in that room or not. Actually, a fan doesn’t change the temperature in a room. It just circulates the air, which makes people feel cooler when it hits their skin. If there isn’t anybody in the room, the fan is useless. Turn fans off when you leave the room to save on energy costs.

3. Closing Vents Saves Energy

Many people close vents in unused rooms thinking the extra cool or warm air will go through other vents, making the house more comfortable. Unfortunately, that won’t work. Closing off vents actually puts more stress on other areas of the system, as they work harder to reach a certain temperature in the rooms. This results in more energy use, not less. 

Duncklee Cooling & Heating is the top choice for HVAC system maintenance and installation in Stonington, CT. They’ve been helping residents and businesses in New London County, CT, and Washington County, RI, for over 40 years. They pride themselves in helping their customers make their homes energy-efficient so they can feel comfortable year-round. Visit their website to browse their heating solutions or call (860) 535-2552 to schedule an appointment.