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Don’t Fall for These Costly Home Maintenance Myths

by | Jan 31, 2025 | Claims, Community First, Rural Missouri

Home maintenance advice gets passed down from neighbors, family, and the almighty internet—but let’s be real, not all of it holds up. In fact, some so-called “helpful tips” can actually cause more harm than good.

So, push pause on the Google searches and tell Mom to hold the phone—this blog is here to set the record straight. We’re busting common home maintenance myths with evidence-backed advice to help you:

  • Protect your home by learning what really works—and what doesn’t.
  • Avoid costly mistakes caused by outdated or misleading advice.
  • Take proactive steps to safeguard your property for the long haul.

At CFM Insurance, we’re not just here to provide a policy—we’re here to help you understand how smart maintenance protects your investment. Joining us on this journey are our policyholders, Penny and Parker, who’ve experienced the highs and lows of homeownership firsthand. With guidance from their trusted insurance partner, Awesome Agent Angie, they’ve learned how to navigate the confusing world of home maintenance myths.

Let’s separate fact from fiction—your home will thank you!

Myth 1: Closing Vents in Unoccupied Rooms Saves Energy & Money

The Truth: This common misconception can actually lead to inefficiency and higher energy costs. Modern HVAC systems are carefully calibrated to balance airflow throughout your home. When vents are closed, the system experiences increased pressure, which can: 

  • Force the unit to work harder than necessary, increasing wear and tear. 
  • Cause duct leaks over time, allowing conditioned air to escape into uninsulated spaces like your attic or crawlspace. 
  • Result in uneven heating or cooling, leaving some rooms too warm or too cold. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: Keep all vents open to ensure consistent airflow and efficient system operation. Instead of closing vents, try these energy-saving alternatives: 

  • Install a programmable thermostat: Set your system to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away or sleeping. 
  • Consider a zoning system: This upgrade allows you to control the temperature in specific areas of your home, optimizing comfort and energy use. 
  • Regular maintenance: Clean or replace air filters and have your HVAC system serviced regularly to keep it running at peak efficiency. 

Myth 2: Bleach is the Best Solution for Mold

The Truth: While bleach is often touted as a mold-killing miracle, it’s not the comprehensive solution many believe it to be. Bleach may remove mold on non-porous surfaces like tile or glass, but it doesn’t penetrate porous materials like drywall, wood, or fabric. This means: 

  • Mold can continue to grow beneath the surface, even after it appears to be gone. 
  • The chlorine in bleach evaporates quickly, leaving behind water that can actually encourage further mold growth. 
  • Using bleach can create the illusion of solving the problem while ignoring the real culprit: excess moisture. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: Mold remediation starts with addressing the root cause: moisture. Follow these steps to effectively tackle mold issues: 

  • Eliminate the moisture source: Identify and fix leaks, improve ventilation, or use a dehumidifier in problem areas. 
  • Use a mold-specific cleaner: Dedicated products are designed to treat both the surface and underlying mold, especially on porous materials. 
  • Call in a professional for widespread issues: Extensive mold growth can compromise structural integrity and air quality, requiring expert remediation to ensure thorough removal and safety.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Clean Your Gutters If There Are No Trees Nearby

The Truth: While it might seem logical, this assumption overlooks how wind, weather, and other environmental factors contribute to gutter buildup. Even without nearby trees, gutters can accumulate: 

  • Leaves and twigs blown in from neighboring properties. 
  • Dirt, dust, and roof debris washed down during rainstorms. 
  • Nesting material from birds or pests looking for shelter. 

Neglecting gutter maintenance can result in serious issues, including: 

  • Water overflow: Clogged gutters can cause water to spill over and damage siding, windows, or landscaping. 
  • Foundation problems: Overflowing water can pool around your foundation, leading to cracks or flooding in your basement. 
  • Ice dams: In colder climates, blocked gutters can trap water, which freezes and damages your roof and gutters. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: Proactive gutter care can save you from costly repairs and keep your home safe from water damage. Even if you don’t have trees nearby, a little maintenance goes a long way! 

  • Clean your gutters regularly: A good rule of thumb is to inspect and clean them at least twice a year—once in the spring and again in the fall. 
  • Invest in gutter guards: These can reduce debris buildup and make maintenance easier while still allowing water to flow freely. 
  • Check after storms: Heavy rain or wind can quickly introduce debris, so inspect gutters for blockages after severe weather events. 

Myth 4: Insulating Your Attic is All You Need to Prevent Heat Loss

The Truth: While attic insulation is a key component in reducing heat loss, it’s not a standalone solution. Without proper air sealing, warm air can still escape through gaps and cracks, rendering your insulation less effective. Common problem areas include: 

  • Windows and doors: Drafty frames and seals allow warm air to leak out.
  • Ductwork: Unsealed ducts can lose heated air before it reaches your living spaces. 
  • Recessed lighting and plumbing vents: These can create small gaps that contribute to significant energy loss. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By tackling both insulation and air sealing, you’ll maximize energy efficiency, lower heating bills, and keep your home consistently warm during winter. It’s a win-win for comfort and savings! 

  • Combine insulation with air sealing: Use caulk, weather stripping, or spray foam to seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings. 
  • Schedule an energy audit: A professional assessment can identify hidden leaks and pinpoint areas where improvements are needed. 
  • Upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors: This long-term investment can further reduce heat loss and improve your home’s energy performance. 

Myth 5: Hairline Cracks in your Foundation are Common & Don’t Require Attention

The Truth: While small foundation cracks might seem harmless, they can signal potential problems and worsen over time. Factors like shifting soil, water infiltration, and freeze-thaw cycles can cause these cracks to expand, leading to: 

  • Increased water infiltration: Even tiny cracks can allow water to seep into your basement or crawlspace, potentially causing moisture issues or mold growth. 
  • Structural instability: Left unchecked, small cracks can widen and compromise the foundation’s integrity, resulting in costly repairs. 
  • Energy inefficiency: Cracks can create air leaks, making it harder to maintain consistent indoor temperatures and increasing utility bills. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By addressing small cracks promptly, you can prevent larger, more expensive problems and ensure your home remains safe and stable for years to come. 

  • Monitor the cracks: Keep an eye on small cracks to ensure they don’t grow or change shape. Marking the ends of a crack with a pencil can help you track growth over time. 
  • Seal minor cracks: Use an epoxy or concrete filler to seal small cracks and prevent water infiltration or further expansion. 
  • Call in a professional for larger issues: If cracks begin to widen, become uneven, or show signs of water seepage, consult a structural engineer or foundation specialist to assess the situation and recommend repairs. 

Myth 6: Hand-Washing Dishes Uses Less Water Than a Dishwasher

The Truth: Modern dishwashers are designed to be more water- and energy-efficient than hand-washing. While hand-washing can use up to 27 gallons of water per session, an energy-efficient dishwasher uses as little as 4 gallons per cycle. Beyond water savings, dishwashers also operate at temperatures that help sanitize dishes more effectively than hand-washing can achieve. 

 Factors to consider:

  • Water usage: Even the most conservative hand-washing techniques use significantly more water than modern dishwashers. 
  • Energy consumption: Heating water for hand-washing can require more energy than a dishwasher’s optimized cycles. 
  • Time efficiency: A dishwasher allows you to save time while ensuring your dishes are thoroughly cleaned. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By trusting your dishwasher over hand-washing, you can save resources, reduce your environmental footprint, and enjoy cleaner, more hygienic dishes with less effort. 

  • Run full loads: Only run your dishwasher when it’s full to maximize efficiency and minimize resource use. 
  • Skip pre-rinsing: Most modern dishwashers are designed to handle lightly soiled dishes without the need for pre-rinsing, further saving water. 
  • Upgrade your appliance: If your dishwasher is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to a modern energy-efficient model to save even more water and energy.

Myth 7: Turning Off Your HVAC When You’re Away Saves Energy

The Truth: Shutting off your HVAC system forces it to work harder to reheat or cool your home when you return, often using more energy than maintaining a consistent, adjusted temperature. Energy-efficient systems are designed to operate best when maintaining moderate temperature changes rather than handling drastic fluctuations. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Energy Usage Spike: Turning your HVAC system completely off may cause a significant energy spike when it has to reheat or cool your home, especially during extreme weather. 
  • Comfort Levels: A completely off system could make your home uncomfortably hot or cold upon your return, leading to longer recovery times. 
  • Humidity Control: In hot and humid climates, turning off your HVAC can allow moisture to build up, increasing the risk of mold and mildew growth. 
  • Wear and Tear: Frequently forcing your HVAC to work overtime to quickly adjust temperatures can strain the system, potentially reducing its lifespan. 
  • Cost Efficiency: Maintaining a moderate temperature adjustment is often more cost-effective than turning the system off completely and compensating later. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By making small adjustments rather than turning your HVAC off entirely, you can reduce energy usage and avoid overloading your system. 

  • Use a programmable thermostat: Set your thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature a few degrees higher in summer or lower in winter while you’re away to conserve energy. 
  • Invest in smart technology: Smart thermostats allow you to monitor and adjust settings remotely for maximum efficiency and comfort. 
  • Consider zoning systems: If your home has multiple zones, adjust each one based on occupancy to save energy without sacrificing comfort. 

Myth 8: Small Leaks Aren’t a Big Deal

The Truth: Even a minor leak can cause big problems over time. A dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, and small pipe leaks can result in hidden water damage, mold growth, or structural instability. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly escalate into costly repairs if ignored. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Water Waste: Small leaks significantly increase your water bill and waste a valuable resource.
  • Mold Risk: Leaks create moisture in hidden areas, fostering mold and mildew growth, which can harm indoor air quality and your health.
  • Structural Damage: Persistent leaks can weaken walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to expensive and invasive repairs.
  • Environmental Impact: Wasting water contributes to resource depletion, even from a small, unnoticed leak.

Evidence-Backed Advice: By addressing small leaks early, you can save water, reduce repair costs, and protect your home from potential long-term damage. 

  • Monitor for signs of hidden leaks: Watch for unexplained water stains, musty odors, or increased water bills as indicators of a potential problem.
  • Use professional help when needed: If a leak is beyond a simple DIY fix, call a plumber to assess and resolve the issue.
  • Prevent future leaks: Regularly inspect faucets, pipes, and appliances for signs of wear and tear.

Myth 9: Ceiling Fans Are Only Useful in the Summer to Cool Down a Room

The Truth: Ceiling fans are not just for cooling; they can also improve warmth and energy efficiency in the winter. When set to rotate clockwise at a low speed, ceiling fans push warm air that rises back down into the room, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce heating costs. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Energy Efficiency: Using a ceiling fan in winter allows you to lower your thermostat slightly without sacrificing comfort, leading to energy savings. 
  • Room Size: Ceiling fans work best in rooms with high ceilings, where warm air tends to accumulate near the top. 
  • Proper Setup: Fans should be adjusted seasonally—counterclockwise for cooling in summer and clockwise for warmth in winter. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By utilizing ceiling fans year-round, you can enhance your home’s comfort and save on energy costs in both summer and winter. 

  • Switch fan direction seasonally: Most fans have a switch near the motor to change the direction of rotation. Use this feature to optimize your fan for summer or winter use. 
  • Use in conjunction with your HVAC: Combine your fan with your heating or cooling system for maximum efficiency. 
  • Turn off when not in use: Ceiling fans circulate air but don’t change the room’s temperature, so turn them off when the room is unoccupied. 

Myth 10: Duct Tape is the Ultimate Home Repair Tool for Leaks, Cracks, & Quick Fixes

The Truth: While duct tape is versatile and great for temporary fixes, it’s not a permanent solution for many repair needs. It lacks the durability, adhesive strength, and weather resistance required for areas like HVAC ducts, plumbing leaks, or exterior surfaces exposed to the elements. Over time, duct tape can fail, leading to bigger problems. 

Factors to Consider: 

  • Temperature Resistance: Duct tape loses its adhesive properties in extreme heat or cold, making it unsuitable for HVAC repairs. 
  • Water Resistance: Prolonged exposure to moisture weakens duct tape, making it ineffective for plumbing or exterior fixes. 
  • Longevity: Duct tape is designed for temporary fixes and does not provide the structural stability required for permanent repairs. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: By using the correct tools and materials for repairs, you can ensure the longevity and safety of your home systems while avoiding costly follow-up fixes. 

  • Use the right materials: For HVAC repairs, use UL-listed HVAC tape designed to withstand temperature changes. For plumbing, opt for plumbing-specific sealants or patches. 
  • Save duct tape for temporary fixes: While duct tape is a great stopgap solution, prioritize permanent repairs as soon as possible.
  • Consult a professional: For complex issues, like persistent plumbing leaks or significant ductwork problems, seek expert help to ensure the job is done right.

Myth 11: Turning Off Lights Saves More Energy Than Using LED Bulbs

The Truth: While turning off lights does save energy, the real game-changer is switching to LED bulbs, which consume up to 75-90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. LEDs are so energy-efficient that the savings from using them far outweigh the benefits of simply turning off older bulbs. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Energy Consumption: An LED bulb uses significantly less electricity, even if left on longer than an incandescent bulb.
  • Lifespan: LEDs last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, reducing replacement costs and waste.
  • Cost Savings: While LEDs have a higher upfront cost, they pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and infrequent replacement.

Evidence-Backed Advice: By combining the use of LED bulbs with mindful energy habits, you can lower your electricity costs and reduce your carbon footprint for a brighter, more efficient future. 

  • Switch to LEDs: Replace all incandescent and CFL bulbs in your home with LED alternatives for immediate energy savings.
  • Turn off when not in use: Although LEDs use minimal energy, turning them off when you leave a room ensures maximum efficiency.
  • Upgrade gradually: If replacing all bulbs at once feels costly, start with high-use areas like kitchens, living rooms, and exterior lighting.

Myth 12: New Homes Don’t Need Maintenance

The Truth: While new homes are built to modern standards, they are not immune to wear and tear. Essential tasks like HVAC filter changes, gutter cleaning, and monitoring for settling or shifting foundations must begin right away. Neglecting these tasks can lead to unexpected repairs or even long-term structural damage. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Foundation Settling: New homes often experience settling within the first few years, which can lead to minor cracks or uneven surfaces if not monitored. 
  • HVAC Efficiency: Without regular maintenance, even a new system can develop issues that reduce energy efficiency and indoor air quality. 
  • Weather Damage: New homes are exposed to the same weather-related risks, such as clogged gutters or wind damage, as older homes. 
  • Builder’s Warranty: Many new homes come with a builder’s warranty, but it typically doesn’t cover issues caused by neglect or lack of maintenance. 

Evidence-Backed Advice: Regular upkeep from day one ensures your new home remains a safe, comfortable, and efficient space for years to come.

  • Start maintenance immediately: Follow a seasonal maintenance checklist to ensure all critical systems and structures are functioning properly.
  • Inspect regularly: Conduct routine inspections for signs of settling, leaks, or wear to catch small issues early.
  • Schedule professional checkups: Invest in HVAC tune-ups, gutter cleaning, and other professional services to keep your home in optimal condition.

Myth 13: Power Strips Protect Against All Electrical Surges

The Truth: While power strips are great for adding extra outlets, they don’t provide protection against electrical surges. Basic power strips lack the internal components necessary to absorb and redirect surges caused by lightning strikes, power outages, or grid issues. To protect your valuable electronics, you need a surge protector specifically designed for that purpose. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Device Safety: Expensive electronics like TVs, gaming systems, and computers are highly sensitive to surges and can be permanently damaged without proper protection.
  • Power Quality: Frequent small surges, not just major events, can degrade your devices over time.
  • Surge Protector Ratings: Look for devices with a high joule rating (the measure of energy they can absorb) to ensure effective protection.

Evidence-Backed Advice: By using the right tools to protect against electrical surges, you can safeguard your devices and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

  • Invest in surge protectors: Choose high-quality surge protectors with UL certification for reliable protection.
  • Understand the difference: Know the distinction between basic power strips and surge protectors—check the labeling before purchase.
  • Replace older surge protectors: Over time, their capacity to absorb energy decreases, so replace them every few years.
  • Consider whole-home protection: For extra safety, have an electrician install a whole-home surge protector to guard against larger power surges.

Myth 14: Cleaning the Dryer’s Lint Trap Once in a While is Enough to Keep it Running Safely & Efficiently

The Truth: While cleaning the lint trap is important, it’s only part of what’s needed to keep your dryer running safely. Over time, lint accumulates in the dryer vent and ductwork, reducing airflow and creating a serious fire hazard. In fact, clogged dryer vents are one of the leading causes of household fires. Regular maintenance is essential for both safety and efficiency. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Fire Risk: Lint is highly flammable, and buildup in the vent can ignite due to heat from the dryer.
  • Reduced Efficiency: A clogged vent forces the dryer to work harder, increasing energy usage and drying time.
  • Appliance Lifespan: Regular vent cleaning can help extend the life of your dryer by reducing strain on its components.

Evidence-Backed Advice: By taking these extra steps, you can ensure your dryer runs efficiently, reduce your energy bills, and protect your home from potential fire hazards. 

  • Clean the lint trap after every use: This removes most lint and helps maintain good airflow.
  • Inspect and clean the vent regularly: Check for visible lint buildup in the vent and clean it at least once a year.
  • Hire a professional for deep cleaning: A professional vent cleaning service can remove hidden lint and ensure the system is safe and clear.
  • Check your dryer’s airflow: If your clothes take longer to dry, it could be a sign of a blocked vent that needs attention.

Myth 15: Your Homeowners Insurance Covers Any Type of Damage or Loss

The Truth: While homeowners insurance provides valuable protection, it doesn’t cover everything. Standard policies often exclude coverage for floods, earthquakes, or damages caused by neglect and wear and tear. For example, a leaking roof due to poor maintenance or gradual deterioration is unlikely to be covered. Understanding what your policy does and doesn’t include is crucial to avoid surprises when you need to file a claim. 

Factors to Consider:

  • Excluded Events: Most policies exclude natural disasters like floods or earthquakes unless you purchase additional coverage.
  • Neglect vs. Sudden Damage: Insurance typically covers sudden, accidental damage but not issues caused by long-term neglect.
  • Regional Risks: Coverage needs can vary depending on your location—areas prone to hurricanes, wildfires, or floods may require specialized policies.
  • Policy Limits: Even covered events may be subject to coverage limits, meaning you could still face out-of-pocket costs for high-value losses.

Evidence-Backed Advice: By understanding the limits of your homeowners insurance and investing in supplemental coverage where needed, you can better protect your home and assets against unexpected losses. 

  • Actually read your policy thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with what is covered, excluded, and limited under your policy. Don’t forget to check your deductible(s).
  • Consider additional coverage: Purchase flood insurance, earthquake insurance, or other specific coverage based on the risks in your area.
  • Maintain your property: Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of denied claims for damage caused by neglect.
  • Work with a local independent agent: Your insurance agent can help you customize your policy to ensure it meets your unique needs because they are experts in the ever-changing landscape of the industry.

Smart Choices, Stronger Protection

Penny and Parker didn’t fall for the myths, and because of that, they’re better protected against life’s unexpected moments. They’ve sealed small leaks before they turned into big problems, swapped out basic power strips for real surge protectors, and made sure their homeowners insurance fits their needs—not just what they assumed was covered. 

The truth is, knowing the facts isn’t just about saving money; it’s about protecting what matters most. From avoiding fire hazards in the laundry room to preparing for what their policy doesn’t cover, Parker and Penny took the time to be proactive—and now they’re set up for success. 

Don’t let these common myths trip you up. The more you know, the better you can protect your home and avoid unnecessary stress. If you’re ready to feel more confident about your home and your insurance, reach out to your trusted CFM Agent today. We’re here to help you take the guesswork out of protecting what you love. 

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