There are a lot of heating and energy-saving myths going around this winter season, and some homeowners still believe them, thinking that they’ll help them save on their monthly utility costs. While these are almost creative, they’re still myths, and as such our forced air heating experts at OK Heating and Air Conditioning have debunked some of the most common ones:
Myth: Switching From a Gas to an Electric Furnace Is More Efficient
Truth: Gas furnaces are often just as efficient in terms of heating, so there’s no need for a replacement if your unit isn’t failing. Electric furnaces do heat hotter than gas in some cases, but you’ll still benefit from how gas is more energy efficient compared to electric.
You also shouldn’t assume that a new, high-efficiency furnace is the only way to lower your heating expenses, as there are other ways to reduce your monthly energy bill without sacrificing your home’s comfort this winter. Just ensure that all the windows and doors are properly sealed, more efficient window units are installed and your home has enough insulation.
Myth: Insulating Windows Doesn’t Make a Difference
Truth: Traditional windows easily transfer heat during the fall and winter, which means heat escapes easily and forces your heating and air conditioning system to operate harder to keep indoor temperatures warm and comfortable. By upgrading to double- or triple-pane windows, you’ll see a noticeable difference, as they can retain heat more effectively. You can also install a low-emissivity film with reflective properties over windows.
Myth: Turning Up the Thermostat Heats Your Interior Faster
Truth: While you might assume that by turning up the dial on your thermostat your home will heat up at a faster rate, this isn’t exactly true. It only means that your furnace will pump greater amounts of heat into your home, which consumes more energy.
With our unmatched installation services for heating and air conditioning units, you can be sure that OK Heating and Air Conditioning can take care of all your HVAC needs. Give us a call at (925) 337-8319 or fill out our convenient online request form to get started.