Energy efficiency myth busting

“Don’t go outside with wet hair — you’ll catch a cold,” “Wait an hour after eating before swimming” and “Coffee stunts your growth,” are all old wives’ tales you’ve likely heard throughout your life. Just like these common misconceptions, there are many you will come across when it comes to energy efficiency. Here are five myths to watch out for when it comes to saving money on your electric bill.

Myth No. 1: It’s more energy-efficient to handwash your dishes instead of running your dishwasher.

In most households, the dishwasher is more energy-efficient. The dishwasher uses less hot water compared to handwashing. Filling the average kitchen sink can take 4 to 6 gallons of water, depending on size and depth of the sink bowl. A running kitchen sink can use 2 gallons of water per minute, depending on the faucet type. A standard Energy Star-rated dishwasher uses around 3 to 4 gallons of water per cycle.

Myth No. 2: Running longer cycles on appliances will use more energy.

Even though using a quick cycle mode means your dishwasher or washing machine will be running for a shorter amount of time, this mode doesn’t actually save you energy or money. Instead of using these speed wash or speed dry cycles, wait until you have a full load of laundry or dishes to wash and dry. Today most technologies use significantly less energy when they are running a full cycle.

Myth No. 3: Not adjusting your thermostat will save you money on your electric bill.

We all have that family member who is adamant about the temperature on the thermostat staying the same. While they mean no harm, it is a good thing to adjust the temperature every now and then. If you are leaving to go on vacation, bump up the thermostat a few degrees. This way you aren’t wasting energy but are keeping appliances like your refrigerator cool.

Myth No. 4: Ceiling fans keep your home cool while you are away.

Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Ceiling fans circulate room air, but do not change the temperature. Running a ceiling fan when no one is home or in the room is only adding to your electricity use cost.

Myth No. 5: Reducing energy use is too expensive.

Many believe that reducing energy use requires expensive up-front costs like purchasing new appliances or construction upgrades to an older home. However, there are many things you can do without spending a fortune that will help lower your bill. Turning off lights when you aren’t in the room, sealing air leaks and unplugging devices when they aren’t in use can all lead to a reduction in consumption.