Energy myths have been floating around like old wives' tales and sometimes permeate our minds until we believe fiction is fact. There are many common ones that might actually be costing us time and money. Here are a few we've debunked.

Myth: Leave the A/C On All Day

This is a common energy myth, rooted in the idea that if you keep your home cool all day, your system won't have to work as hard when you need it. There are a few holes in this reasoning. Keeping your A/C running constantly can actually lead to less efficient cooling, more frequent repairs, and higher energy bills. Your best option is a middle ground — and even better, a smart thermostat that can be programmed to learn your behavior and keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the day without wasting energy.

Myth: Natural Gas Is Not a Good Energy Source

Natural gas is actually one of the cleanest burning natural fuels available. The U.S. Energy Information Administration explains that natural gas produces fewer emissions of nearly all types of air pollutants and carbon dioxide than burning coal or petroleum products to generate an equal amount of energy. This is why natural gas use has gained popularity in transportation, manufacturing, and household heating. Did you know that Michigan is also a deregulated state when it comes to energy choice? Don't let an energy myth keep you from saving money — customers are free to choose the best plan and rate for themselves.

Myth: Wait as Long as Possible to Turn On Your Heat

You can almost hear your parents congratulating themselves on holding out for so long without turning on the heat. But in Michigan, temperatures can start to dip in late August — and waiting too long carries real risk. An overnight freeze could cause your pipes to burst, and cranking your heating system 20+ degrees overnight after a long dormant period can lead to system failures or even house fires. Experts recommend doing a test run of your heating system before the big freeze — turn it on while you're awake and able to notice any struggles, unusual noises, or odd smells. This will tell you if you need a tune-up before winter arrives.

We might not be as handsome as the MythBusters team, but we bring you useful information on a weekly basis to help run your household smoothly and save you money in the process. Keep checking back to the Kratos Gas & Power blog.