Many homeowners try to be energy-efficient, but sometimes well-intentioned habits can actually lead to higher bills. Whether your system is brand new or you’re considering upgrades through flexible boiler finance, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. At Harper’s Plumbing & Heating, we’re committed to helping customers improve their home comfort and efficiency.
Below we uncover what are common heating myths that waste energy and how you can make smarter choices to keep your property warm without overspending.
Myth 1: Leaving Your Heating On Low All Day Saves Energy
This is one of the most persistent heating myths. Many people believe that keeping the heating on constantly at a low temperature is more efficient than turning it on and off as needed. In truth, maintaining heat all day causes your boiler to work continuously, burning more fuel in the process. The smarter approach is to set a timer and use thermostatic controls to warm your home when required, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Myth 2: Turning the Thermostat Up Heats the Home Faster
It’s a natural reaction to feel cold and crank the thermostat up high, hoping for a quicker warm-up. Unfortunately, boilers and radiators don’t work that way. The system heats at a consistent rate regardless of the thermostat setting. Setting your thermostat higher simply keeps your boiler running longer, wasting gas and increasing your bills. Instead, adjust your thermostat to the desired room temperature and let it reach it gradually.
Myth 3: Closing Vents or Rooms Saves Energy
In many households, people close vents or shut off rooms that aren’t frequently used, thinking this reduces heating costs. However, this can disturb your heating system’s balance, creating pressure differences and hindering airflow. In systems with central heating, blocking vents can make the boiler work harder to distribute heat. It’s better to maintain balanced air circulation throughout your home to ensure even, efficient heating.
Myth 4: Radiators Heat Better When They’re Hot All Over
Uneven radiator heat often signals sludge or trapped air inside your system. While you might assume radiators should be scorching top to bottom, this isn’t always the case. In fact, a radiator that’s cooler at the bottom could be more efficient if circulation is correct. If your radiators have cold spots or take too long to warm up, your system may need attention. Check out our guide on power flushing central heating for advice on improving system performance.
Myth 5: You Don’t Need Regular Boiler Servicing
Many homeowners assume that if their heating seems fine, servicing isn’t necessary. This is one of the most costly assumptions. Regular boiler servicing helps maintain efficiency, extends lifespan, and prevents breakdowns during winter when you need heat most. Neglecting annual checks can lead to inefficiencies and costly repairs down the line. If you’ve noticed early signs of heating trouble, such as odd noises or inconsistent heat, take a look at our blog on early heating trouble to identify problems before they worsen.
How to Avoid Costly Heating Mistakes
To optimise energy use and comfort, follow these practical steps:
- Use programmable thermostats to automate schedules efficiently.
- Bleed radiators yearly to remove trapped air.
- Insulate pipes and your loft to conserve heat.
- Book regular professional servicing to maintain boiler efficiency.
- Ask our qualified engineers about system balancing and upgrades.
Final Thoughts: Save Money by Debunking Myths
Understanding what are common heating myths that waste energy is the first step to improving your home’s efficiency. Every small change you make—like maintaining your boiler, adjusting your thermostat properly, or scheduling regular servicing—can lead to real savings on your annual energy bill.
At Harper’s Plumbing & Heating, we help customers enjoy reliable warmth and lower energy costs, whatever the season. Explore your options through our flexible boiler finance plans, or contact us to discuss your heating needs today.