Fall and Winter Energy Saving Tips

We are always looking for ways to save our customers money, below are some fall and winter energy saving tips to help. We found some great tips from energy.gov and wanted to share them with you.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HEAT FROM THE SUN – Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night

COVER DRAFTY WINDOWS – Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration. Install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing

ADJUST THE TEMPERATURE – When you are home and awake, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature

FIND AND SEAL LEAKS – Seal the air leaks around utility cut-through for pipes, gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. Add caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.

MAINTAIN YOUR HEATING SYSTEMS – Schedule service for your heating system. Replace your furnace filter once a month or as needed.

REDUCE HEAT LOSS FROM THE FIREPLACE – Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F. If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue.