Retrofitworks

Blogs

Energy-Saving Myths: fact vs. myth

There’s a lot of information out there about conserving energy, but not all of it is true. Some myths can actually lead to wasted energy and higher bills. At RetrofitWorks, we want to help you make the best choices for your home. Let’s debunk some of the biggest energy-saving myths and find out what really works!

Myth 1: Keeping the heating on all day saves money

Many people believe that keeping the heating on low all day is more efficient than turning it on and off. In reality, this wastes energy. It’s much better to heat your home only when you need it.

✅ What to do instead:
Use a thermostat to control when your heating turns on and off.
Only heat the rooms you actually use.

Myth 2: Turning appliances off means they stop using energy

Even when switched off, many appliances still consume power if they’re plugged in. This is known as standby energy—and it adds up over time.

✅ What to do instead:

Unplug devices when they’re not in use.
Use a smart power strip to cut power completely.

Myth 3: Furniture in front of radiators doesn’t affect heating

Placing a sofa or bed directly in front of a radiator blocks heat from circulating properly. This makes your home feel colder and forces your heating system to work harder.

✅ What to do instead:

Keep radiators clear so heat can move freely.
Use reflective radiator panels to bounce heat back into the room.

Myth 4: Windows are the biggest cause of heat loss

While windows do let some heat escape, your walls, roof, and floors are usually the bigger issue. In fact, around 60% of heat loss happens through these areas!

✅ What to do instead:

Insulate your loft and walls first—this makes the biggest difference.
Seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent draughts.

Myth 5: Solar panels don’t work well in the UK

Solar panels don’t need heat to generate electricity—they work with light. Even on cloudy days, they can produce energy and help lower your bills.

✅ What to do instead:

Consider solar panels to reduce your reliance on the grid.
Look into battery storage to save excess energy for later.

Myth 6: Making your home energy-efficient is too expensive

You don’t need to spend a fortune to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Small, affordable changes can make a big impact.

✅ What to do instead:

Start with simple upgrades like draught-proofing and LED lighting.
Check if you qualify for grants to help with insulation and other energy-saving improvements.
Get expert advice from RetrofitWorks on cost-effective home upgrades.

The Bottom line

Not everything you hear about saving energy is true. By focusing on what actually works—like proper insulation, smart heating, and reducing wasted energy—you can lower your bills and make your home more comfortable.

Need help making your home more energy-efficient? RetrofitWorks is here to help. Get in touch to find out how we can make your home warmer and more efficient.