Winter is the time for cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and evenings by the fire—or at least that’s the dream. But when your HVAC system isn’t working quite right, winter can feel more like a battle against the cold inside your own home.
We often hear the same questions and concerns every winter, many of which stem from common myths about heating systems. It’s no wonder these myths exist—HVAC systems are complicated, and it’s easy to fall into habits or beliefs that seem logical but may be costing you money or causing your system unnecessary strain.
Let’s set the record straight on some of these winter HVAC myths so you can enjoy a warm, stress-free winter.
Myth 1: Turning the Thermostat Way Up Will Heat Your Home Faster
We get it—you walk into a chilly house and instinctively crank the thermostat up to 80, hoping it will warm up in record time. Unfortunately, that’s not how your furnace works. Furnaces heat at a consistent rate, no matter what temperature you set on the thermostat.
All you’re doing by setting it higher is extending the time your furnace runs, which could lead to higher energy bills (and possibly sweating through your sweater later when the house finally catches up). Instead, set the thermostat to your ideal temperature—your furnace will get there just as quickly without overshooting and making your home uncomfortably warm.
Myth 2: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
This one is a classic, and it seems to make sense: if no one is using a room, why waste energy heating it? But here’s the problem—your HVAC system is designed to heat your entire home. When you close off vents, you disrupt the airflow balance, which can increase pressure in the ductwork and force your furnace to work harder than it should.
This added strain can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy bills, and even damage to your system over time. If you’re looking to control the temperature in specific areas of your home, talk to a professional about zoning systems or other solutions designed for that purpose.
Myth 3: Keeping the Heat Low All Day Saves Energy
Picture this: you leave your home for the day, set the thermostat to a low temperature, and keep it there even after you return, thinking it’ll save you money. In reality, this approach isn’t as efficient as it sounds.
Modern furnaces are designed to heat your home relatively quickly, so lowering the temperature while you’re away and bumping it back up when you return is usually more energy-efficient. Better yet, invest in a programmable or smart thermostat that can adjust automatically based on your schedule. It’s a small change that can lead to noticeable savings over the winter.
Myth 4: Space Heaters Are More Efficient Than Central Heating
Space heaters might be great for warming up a specific area, like your home office or a drafty bedroom, but they’re not a replacement for central heating. Running multiple space heaters can quickly drive up your electric bill, and they often pose safety risks if used improperly.
Your furnace, on the other hand, is designed to heat your entire home efficiently. If some rooms are consistently colder than others, it’s worth investigating whether insulation, ductwork, or your HVAC system might need attention.
Myth 5: Bigger Furnaces Are Always Better
This is one of the biggest misconceptions we encounter. When it comes to furnaces, size absolutely matters—but bigger isn’t always better. An oversized furnace can heat your home too quickly, leading to something called short cycling. This constant turning on and off wastes energy, causes uneven heating, and wears out the system prematurely.
The best furnace for your home is one that’s properly sized based on your square footage, insulation, and heating needs. If you’re considering a replacement, an HVAC professional can help you choose the perfect fit.
Myth 6: Maintenance Isn’t Necessary for a New System
A new furnace or HVAC system feels like a shiny new toy—why would it need maintenance already? But just like your car needs oil changes even when it’s fresh off the lot, your HVAC system requires regular tune-ups to stay in top shape.
Seasonal maintenance helps catch small issues before they become big problems, ensures everything is running efficiently, and extends the lifespan of your system. Think of it as an investment in your home’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Myth 7: All Thermostats Work the Same
If you’re still using a manual thermostat, you’re missing out on one of the easiest ways to save money and improve comfort during the winter. Modern programmable and smart thermostats let you set schedules, control temperatures remotely, and optimize your energy usage. They’re a small upgrade that can make a big difference.
How to Keep Your HVAC System Running Smoothly This Winter
Now that we’ve busted these myths, here are a few simple tips to make sure your HVAC system keeps you warm all season long:
- Schedule a professional maintenance check before winter gets too harsh.
- Change your air filters regularly to improve airflow and efficiency.
- Seal up drafts around doors and windows to keep the warm air inside.
- Use ceiling fans in reverse mode to help circulate warm air from your furnace.
Winter doesn’t have to be a season of skyrocketing energy bills or constant thermostat battles. By avoiding these common HVAC myths, you can keep your home warm, your system efficient, and your wallet happy.We’re here to help with all your heating needs, whether it’s a quick tune-up, a new installation, or advice on the best ways to stay cozy this winter.