When it comes to saving energy, there’s a lot of advice out there, but not all of it is true. Let’s set the record straight on some common energy myths so you can make smarter choices and keep your bill lower this winter.
Myth 1: Cranking your thermostat down then up saves money.
Truth: While it saves energy to turn down the temperature while you’re away, you want to avoid turning the heat up too high or too fast when you return. Raising the thermostat more than a degree or two will often start your emergency or auxiliary heat which uses 2-4 times more electricity.
Myth 2: Turning lights off and on uses more energy than leaving them on.
Truth: The small, momentary surge of power when a light is switched on is minimal compared to the energy used by leaving it on. It is always better to turn off lights when you leave a room.
Myth 3: Opening the oven door to check on food doesn’t waste energy.
Truth: Opening the oven door causes the temperature to drop by as much as 25°F, forcing it to use more energy to return to the correct temperature. Use the oven light and window instead.
Myth 4: Space heaters will save me money.
Truth: Space heaters can actually increase your bill if you use them to heat large areas. They’re best used for short-term, targeted warmth in a single room, not as a replacement for your heating system.
Myth 5: Closing vents in unused rooms saves energy.
Truth: Modern HVAC systems are designed to balance airflow throughout the house. Closing vents can actually increase pressure in the system, making it work harder and possibly shortening its lifespan.
Myth 6: Hand-washing dishes saves more water and energy than a dishwasher.
Truth: Today’s ENERGY STAR® certified dishwashers use less water and energy than washing dishes by hand. Just be sure to run full loads for maximum efficiency.
Myth 7: Bigger appliances always use more energy.
Truth: Efficiency matters more than size. A newer, larger ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator may use less energy than an older, smaller one because of better insulation and technology.
Small, smart energy habits go further than quick fixes or myths. Combine good practices with your co-op’s helpful tools like SmartHub and our time-of-day rate and you’ll be on the path to real savings this winter.