Five energy myths that could be costing you extra  

Every household has its own habits when it comes to energy-saving methods, but not all of them are effective. 

Here are some common energy myths and their truths to help you save money and stay comfortable.  

Myth: Turning electronics off stops all energy use. 
Even when they’re not in use, your TV, your computer and other household appliances are quietly draining power. Also known as phantom load, standby power accounts for 5-10% of residential energy use and could cost you as much as $100 extra per year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

What You Can Do: 
Try unplugging all your devices when not in use or using surge-protected power strips. By plugging your devices into one strip, you can flip them all on/off at the same time, saving you time and energy. 

If you’re worried about remembering to switch the power off when you leave, you could also consider switching to smart plugs. This will allow you to control power remotely using a smart phone app when you’re out and about.  

Myth: Cranking up the thermostat heats your home faster.
Waking up freezing is never ideal, but adjusting your thermostat to 80 degrees isn’t going to warm you up faster. In fact, the extreme temperature shift is making your heating system work harder than it should, leading to increased energy use and higher bills.  

What You Can Do: 
Set your thermostat to your desired temperature right off the bat, as it will warm you up just as quickly. You could also install a smart or programmable thermostat that allows you to adjust temperatures on the go. 

Myth: Energy-efficient homes are uncomfortable.
Uneven room temperatures or poor air sealing may make you question why your home feels uncomfortable. However, making energy-efficient upgrades often improves comfort. 

What You Can Do: 
 Enhancing your insulation, investing in properly sealed windows and installing better ventilation systems can result in more stable indoor temperatures, improved air quality and reduced energy consumption. 

Myth: Solar panels don’t work in cloudy climates like Oregon.
While we experience more gloomy days than sunny days in Oregon, it’s a myth that solar panels won’t work in the grey weather. Solar panels work in all weather conditions because some sunlight still reaches the earth even on cloudy days. In fact, solar panels perform better in cold and sunny weather because too much heat can reduce how well the panels work.  

What You Can Do: 
Adding solar panels to your home can significantly reduce your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint and give you energy independence while taking advantage of incentives and tax credits.  

Myth: Bigger HVAC systems heat or cool better.
While it may seem logical that a bigger HVAC system may cool your house better, that’s not necessarily the case. There are only a few instances when bigger HVAC systems are a smart move— such as living in a home with higher ceilings, having poor insulation, living in hotter climates or living in a larger home. 

What You Can Do:
The best way to make sure you’re getting the right size system for your home is to consider weatherization, which is the process of improving your home’s energy efficiency by reducing air leaks and improving insulation.  

All in all, making these small changes can make a real difference to your energy use and wallet.  Here are some key tips to keep in mind: 

• Unplug electronic devices when not in use to avoid standby energy. 
• Set your thermostat to your desired temperature for first use. 
• Making energy-efficient changes could result in a more comfortable home. 
• Solar panels are still effective during gloomy weather. 
• Consider weatherization when figuring out which HVAC system is right for you.