Have you heard home advice that just feels off? Myths about home maintenance and improvement pop up everywhere, and they often sound so believable that many follow them without question. Unfortunately, these misconceptions waste money, time, and energy. But today, we’re putting a stop to them! Say goodbye to these six misleading home myths.
Homeowners Insurance Covers Everything
Insurance policies are tricky. Some home insurance plans exclude damage from flooding, earthquakes, or pests. For instance, insurance may not help if termites invade your home, leaving you responsible for extermination costs and repairs.
Take the time to review your coverage, and consider adding specialized plans if you live in high-risk areas for specific disasters. Overall, it’s best to know what your existing plan offers and where you may need additional protection.
Lowering the Thermostat Quickly Chills the Room
Lowering the thermostat to quickly chill a room is one of the most common air conditioner myths. In reality, this isn’t true. Your HVAC system works at a constant rate, no matter the target setting.
Lowering it too much leaves your system running longer than needed, racking up your energy bills without any benefit. Instead, focus on keeping doors and windows sealed and using fans to aid circulation for faster comfort.
Bleach Is the Best Cleaner for Every Surface
Bleach being the best cleaner for every surface is another misleading home myths to say goodbye to. Of course, the chemical is powerful, but it’s far from universal. Using it on wood, stone, or grout can lead to fading or surface damage.
Mold on porous surfaces, such as drywall, also requires specialized products because bleach only addresses the surface-level problem. Instead, match your cleaning products with the task. For instance, wood deserves gentle cleaners or oils, while vinegar solutions can suit stone countertops.
Leaky Faucets Are No Big Deal
That drip-drip-drip may seem harmless, but a single dripping faucet can waste gallons of water each week. Over time, that wasted water translates to higher water bills and excess strain on your plumbing system.
Even worse, neglecting it can lead to rusted fixtures or damaged seals, resulting in costly repairs. Fixing a leaky faucet is straightforward and typically requires tightening a washer or replacing a cartridge.
Open Floor Plans Are Always Better
Open layouts may seem impressive, but they come with dilemmas too many overlook. Huge, shared spaces allow noise to travel freely, disrupting quiet areas when you’re cooking or entertaining.
Temperature control is also challenging, as heating or cooling larger areas requires more energy. Additionally, it’s hard to obtain privacy in open spaces, leaving fewer areas to retreat for quiet moments.
Instead of chasing the trend, evaluate whether it matches your lifestyle. You might enjoy a partial open layout, combining cozy corners with functional gathering spaces.
Home Security Systems are Too Expensive
Investing in home security doesn’t require a massive budget. Wireless cameras, smart doorbells, and motion sensors provide excellent protection without hefty installation fees.
You could install cameras overlooking entry points or set up motion-activated lights to deter trespassers. Practical additions like these can enhance your home’s safety in no time!