Energy saving tips to reduce your winter bills
The winter months bring more than glistening snow and holiday cheer . . . they bring frigid temperatures and dreaded heating bills! There are some simple ways you can become more energy efficient around your home to assist in reducing your costs this coming winter. Getting these chores accomplished early in the season will benefit you, as the days are typically warmer and have longer periods of daylight. Here are some DYI ideas which should save you energy and money:
- Seal off drafty windows and patio doors
- Caulk both sides of the trim around your windows
- Try replacing the weather stripping around the doors in your home
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to push air downward, delaying it from escaping the house
- Insulate the hot water lines around your hot water heater and turn down the temperature of the water heater to the “warm” setting (120 degrees F)
- Replace your furnace filter every 3 months (or as often as manufacturer recommendations)
- Make sure your cold air returns aren’t blocked so your furnace can operate efficiently
- Use a programmable thermostat to reduce heating costs when no one is at home
- Uncover all south-facing windows to let all possible sunlight in your home
- Install foam insulators behind the face plates of light switches and electrical outlets
- Have your HVAC system inspected and tuned up in the Autumn
All of these ideas common sense thoughts that can be implemented with little time and little expenditure; contact a locally trusted HVAC professional to inspect your heating system and ensure it is running properly for you!
Skip Daley - Weathervane Insurance 