With cold temperatures we just want to feel warm at home, right? And what do we do? Leave the heating on all day at low temperature because we think we will save some money. However, according to Jorge Morales, an industrial engineer and energy expert, this is a myth. Every heating system consumes energy as long as they are on, so the best thing to save money is to use them when we really need them. So, let’s learn more about what Jorge Morales has to say.
Leaving the heating on all day
No, this doesn’t make you pay cheaper bills. Morales said that even if you leave home for a few minutes, the heating keeps consuming energy because it’s still working. So, the most effective way to save money is to use heating systems when you need it. This way your total consumption of energy will lower (and your bill too).
Tips to save money
Do you think that heating your home in an efficient way is just turning the thermostat down or up? Let me tell you that’s not okay because it involves planning, timing, and using your home’s natural warmth. Here are some simple tips:
- Set the right temperature: keep your living areas between 66°F and 70°F (19–21°C). This is warm enough to stay comfortable without wasting energy and you can lower the temperature a few degrees at night. Have in mind that each degree higher can increase your heating bill by 6%–8%, so small adjustments make a big difference.
- Use heating schedules: programming your heating system is one of the easiest ways to save. Set it to turn on only when people are home and turn off when nobody is there. This prevents energy from being wasted on empty rooms and ensures your home is cozy when you need it.
- Invest in good insulation: a well-insulated home keeps heat inside, reducing how much your heating system needs to work. So, make sure walls, windows, and doors are insulated properly.
- Take advantage of natural heat: sunlight is a free source of warmth. Open your curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun heat your rooms naturally. This reduces the time your heating system needs to run and keeps your home warmer during daylight hours.
Efficiency matters
Heating tends to be the largest energy expense in winter, but if we start making small changes on how we use it we will notice a difference on our bills. Turning it on only when we need it, maintaining a proper temperature, and improving insulation can help you save money, energy, and even have a positive impact on the environment.
So…
Now that you know the truth, it’s time to put it into action. No more myths about leaving it on all day “just in case.” Your home can be warm, cozy, and comfortable without draining your wallet. Think about your next energy bill: every degree you save and every minute you turn off the heating counts.
So, next time you want to turn the thermostat on just because, you should remember that you can be smarter than the myth and keep your money where it belongs… in your pocket.