As we head into another chilly Maryland winter, T. N. Bowes wants to address some persistent myths about home heating that could be affecting your comfort and increasing your energy bills unnecessarily.

Myth #1: Cranking Up the Thermostat Heats Your Home Faster

Many homeowners believe that setting their thermostat to a higher temperature will warm their space more quickly. This is false. Your heating system works at the same speed regardless of the temperature setting. Setting it to 80 degrees won’t heat your home any faster than setting it to 70 degrees – it’ll just keep running longer and waste energy.

Myth #2: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Money

This common misconception can actually damage your HVAC system. Modern heating systems are designed to balance airflow throughout your home. Closing vents creates pressure imbalances that can:

• Strain your system’s blower motor
• Increase duct leakage
• Reduce overall heating efficiency
• Lead to premature system failure

Myth #3: Space Heaters Always Save Money

While space heaters can be useful in some situations, relying on them as a primary heat source rarely saves money. In fact, running multiple space heaters can be more expensive than operating a properly maintained central heating system. The key to efficiency is ensuring your main heating system is regularly serviced and operating at peak performance.

Remember that proper maintenance from qualified professionals is the best way to ensure efficient heating performance throughout the winter months. If you’re experiencing heating issues in Southern Maryland, from Saint Charles to Lexington Park, having your system inspected by a certified technician can help identify potential problems before they become costly repairs.

Want to learn more about optimizing your home’s heating efficiency? Contact the experts at T. N. Bowes for a professional evaluation of your heating system.