It has been an extremely cold start to the year
energy expert has set the record straight on misconceptions about heating homes in the winter(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
An energy expert has set the record straight on misconceptions about heating homes in the winter. After a cold start to the new year many of us have had to take measures to keep our homes warm including cranking the heating up.
Merseyside was hit by several weather warnings for snow and ice last week. It lead to disruption on the region’s roads, train services, schools and even flights. With the weather alerts covering large parts of the country, thousands of people will be looking for cost-effective ways to stay warm.
According to CEO at MakemyHouseGreen, Llewellyn Kinch, lots of mistakes are made when it comes to energy. He said: “A lot of people have misplaced ideas about heating, which might be making their homes less energy and cost-efficient to heat. The issue often becomes more prevalent during winter, when heat is provided at a necessary premium and households desperately look for any way to cut down on their bills.”
According to the energy expert, consumers need to approach online energy-saving advice with caution and always fact-check before making any changes to their heating habits. Below are seven common myths about heating our homes in the winter.
1. Cranking up the thermostat heats homes faster
Llewellyn says: “Since these systems work at a constant rate, you can do nothing to make the process faster, so only set the thermostat to the desired temperature.” This will only set the final temperature higher and risks your house overheating.
2. It’s Cheaper To Leave The Heating On Low All Day Than To Turn It On And Off
Modern heating systems reach the desired temperature relatively quickly, so there’s no need to leave your heating on all day. the energy expert suggests doing this can lead to excess energy usage and overheating your home.
He says: “Programmable thermostats and smart home systems can optimise heating usage, allowing you to set a schedule for when your heating goes on and off, therefore reducing your overall energy consumption. There may be some exceptions, such as heat pumps that work more continuously.”
3. Heat Is Only Lost Through Windows And Doors
There are many ways heat can be lost from homes. Including poor insulation, unsealed gaps, and insufficient weather stripping. Llewellyn states: “Windows and doors are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to efficiently sealing your home. Heat can be lost in many ways, so be sure to evaluate your entire space and not just windows and doors.”
4. Bill-Saving Solar Energy Doesn’t Work In Winter
One misconception is that solar energy doesn’t work in the winter. Despite shorter daylight hours and the sun’s lower position in the sky, solar panels can still produce substantial energy.
Addressing this, the expert said: “Solar panels are still a great energy source in the winter that can help offset the energy-intensive demands of heating a home. While there is less sun during the shorter winter days, the cold weather helps panels operate more efficiently.”