Energy-Saving Tips

Simple things to check at the beginning of each heating season:

Make sure that your attic hatch is closed; crawl and basement access doors also.
Check to be sure that all upper sash and self storing storm windows are in the fully closed position and that any locks are engaged.
Make sure that fireplace dampers are closed when not in use.
Follow-up after the “cable guy” (or electrician, plumber, etc.) to make sure insulation was put back and that they did not disconnect a duct or the like.
Open heating system registers and move anything covering them like carpets or furniture.

Use a rolled bath towel or “draft snake” inside leaky door bottoms.
Utilize drapes or heavy curtains to your advantage; open them when the sun shines, close them when it doesn’t.
Run exhaust fans only when needed.

Turn your thermostat down when you are away or sleeping.
Turn water heater temperature down to 120 O F.
Reduce consumption of hot water by washing more laundry in cold water, rinse dishes in colder water, take shorter showers…etc.
Clean clothes dryer lint traps and dryer outlet pipes; they must exhaust outdoors.

Clean or replace your furnace filter.
Convert light bulbs to compact fluorescent; highest use locations first.
Install shrink-wrap interior storm window kits on leaky windows.
Plug holes and utility penetrations with foam in a can.
Caulk leaky interior edges along baseboards, window trim, etc.
Replace broken or missing receptacle and switch covers and install child-proof plugs.

Install a set-back thermostat.
Install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators.
Install a water heater tank wrap IF you have an older, fiberglass insulated unit.
Insulate hot water pipes in unconditioned areas.
Insulate ducts in unconditioned areas.
Perform attic air sealing and then add insulation up to R-38.
Install proper door latches to keep doors closed securely.