As plumbers, we often encounter an array of misconceptions when it comes to home heating systems. A lack of accurate information can lead homeowners to make decisions that can potentially harm their heating systems and also affect the comfort of their homes. Today, we aim to debunk some of the most prevalent myths around heating systems and provide factual, clear insights to enhance your understanding.

Myth 1: Bigger boilers are always better

Contrary to popular belief, an oversized boiler doesn’t necessarily translate to better heating performance. While it is crucial to ensure your boiler can cope with demand, a boiler that is too large for your home is likely to cycle on and off frequently, causing wear and tear, and inefficient energy use. In fact, the key lies in getting a heating system that is correctly sized for your home and specific needs. Always consult a professional who can calculate the correct size for optimal performance and efficiency.

Myth 2: The thermostat should be turned up when it’s very cold

Turning up the thermostat to its highest setting will not make your home heat up any faster. Heating systems work at the same pace regardless of whether you’ve set your thermostat to 20°C or 30°C. What turning up the thermostat does is only make your boiler work for longer, thereby using more energy, leading to higher bills, without heating your home any faster.

Myth 3: Leaving the heating on low all day is more efficient

Many homeowners believe that keeping the heating on at a low level throughout the day is more energy-efficient than turning it off and on. However, this is a misconception. Having your heating on only when it’s needed and using a timer or a smart thermostat to control this can significantly lower energy consumption and save money on bills.

Myth 4: Electric heaters are more economical than central heating

Electric heaters can be handy for heating small spaces or as a supplement to your central heating system. However, using them as the primary source of heat in your home can be costly. The Energy Saving Trust states that central heating is usually the most efficient and cost-effective way to heat a whole house.

Myth 5: Radiators won’t work efficiently if they’re painted

Many people fear that painting a radiator will affect its performance. In truth, as long as you’re not using insulating, thick or heat-resistant paint, a fresh coat of paint isn’t going to significantly impact your radiator’s efficiency. It’s also worth mentioning that darker colours can emit heat better than lighter ones.

Myth 6: It’s not necessary to service your boiler regularly

Regular servicing is crucial to ensure your boiler operates efficiently and safely. A neglected boiler can become less efficient, causing your energy bills to rise. More importantly, it can become unsafe, leading to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. As a rule of thumb, ensure your boiler is serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

By understanding these facts about heating systems, you can make informed decisions about how to use and maintain your boiler and heating system efficiently. It’s always best to seek professional advice if you’re unsure about anything related to your home heating system. Always remember, when it comes to heating, what works for one home might not work for another. Therefore, individual circumstances should always be considered.

In debunking these myths, we aim to help you maximise the efficiency of your heating systems, keep your homes warm, and save on energy bills. Stay warm, stay informed!