Households across the country are searching the internet to try to find ways of cutting down their bills as the cost of energy soars. However, there are some ways being circulated online that claim to save money but are actually just rumours.
Nigel Best, director of electrical training provider Electrician Courses 4U has shared five heating myths that Brits should avoid in order to keep their energy bills down this winter, as reported by the Express. He said: “During the cost of living crisis we are all looking at ways to cut back and save our pennies - not least on our energy bills.
“While there is lots of helpful advice out there on how to reduce your electricity usage, there are a few common methods which are not only ineffective but can also end up costing you more money. To prevent you from receiving a nasty surprise on your next energy bill, here are five heating myths Britons should be aware of.”
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Myth 1: Electric heaters are cheaper
Some people think that it is cheaper to use electric heaters than using the central heating. However Mr Best said that electric versions were wasteful with energy and if they’re a fan heater also create noise. He added: “This noise, which is useless to you or me, is being powered by electricity which ultimately comes out of your pocket.”
Myth 2: Keep the heating on low all day
Mr Best said that if you’re heating your house when you don’t need to it evidently costs you money you didn’t need to spend. He added: “This is indeed false. All you are doing is keeping your heating on for a longer period of time. This ultimately means you are going to end up with a very expensive heating bill at the end of the month.”
Myth 3: Smart meters will save you money
Smart meters don’t save you money, what they do is show you which appliances use the most power. It is then that you can moderate their usage. Also they should mean your bills are accurate.
Myth 4: Have a real fire
According to Mr Best wood burners are not an “efficient way” to keep homes warm. He explained: “Fireplaces that require a chimney can cause major heat loss in a home. That’s because cold air can get in via the top of the chimney and hot air can escape. The cost of firewood would also outweigh the cost of heating your home through a radiator.”
Myth 5: Turning up your heating to its highest setting will warm your house more quickly
Not true - according to the expert it just means that you use a lot of money early on and then you might need to put it back on later again when it gets cold and costs even more.
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