In today’s world, everything seems to be increasing in price, and with warmer days ahead, ways to reduce energy usage and costs may be top of mind.
Investigating your energy usage and behaviors is key to finding the right ways to save money in the long term, but there is a lot of misinformation around what actually works. Let’s debunk some common myths that may be holding you back from reaching your energy efficiency goals—and share tips to help you cut costs as temperatures begin to climb.
Myth 1: Bigger is Better
Wrong. Size does NOT equal performance when it comes to HVAC systems.Why. An oversized unit may seem like a good idea, but, in reality, it will cycle on and off more often, leading to increased energy usage, higher costs, and less comfort.
The fix. Instead of going for the biggest model possible, homeowners should opt for a properly sized system for optimal performance and look for energy-efficient models whenever possible. While an energy-efficient system may have a higher price tag upfront, there are many rebates available, and it can cut your bills by thousands of dollars per year. Not sure what you need? Bring in a professional technician to do a home energy audit and get recommendations tailored to your space and lifestyle.
Myth 2: Closing Vents Saves Energy
Think again. Closing your vents does not conserve energy in unused rooms
Why. Your system is designed to balance air pressure throughout your home; when you close a vent, you risk pressure buildup, leaks, overheating, and reduced efficiency.
The fix. Instead, keep all vents open and adjust your thermostat to manage the overall temperature for the comfort and efficiency you’re after.
Myth 3: Lowering the Thermostat Cools Your Home Faster
No. Cranking the thermostat way down will not cool your home more quickly.
Why. The truth is, your HVAC system works at a constant rate. Setting it lower than necessary just keeps it running longer, not faster, and wastes energy.
The fix. Instead keep your thermostat at your target temperature. Additionally, consider investing in a smart thermostat. With different control mechanisms, room-specific settings, and adaptable timers, they allow for more control over your energy usage. Some models can even predict their preferred cooling settings which can more accurately control the climate. South Jersey Gas customers can utilize our Marketplace to purchase smart thermostats with instant discounts.
Staying in the Know
One final misconception is that making real impacts on your energy efficiency takes a lot of effort or money. This couldn’t be further from the truth! In fact, incorporating small, smart upgrades like weather stripping, LED lighting, or a smart thermostat can deliver big results on your energy bills. Energy efficiency isn’t about guesswork-- it’s about making smart, informed decisions.
