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Energy Saving Tips
Low Cost Actions
Moderate Cost Actions
High Cost Actions
Consider installing a new high efficiency gas fired furnace. If your unit is over 15 years old or a low efficiency model, now is a good time to think about getting a new unit installed. Remember, your payback period decreases as the cost of energy increases.
- Turn your thermostat back in the evening when you go to bed or when you will be gone from the house for eight or more hours. Installing a programmable thermostat (typical cost is under $100) will allow for automatic temperature changes once programmed to your daily pattern. When installing a thermostat, it is advisable the unit be installed on an inside wall away from windows, doors, and ducts.
- Use insulated or heavy curtains on windows and keep them closed at night and on cloudy days. Open curtains on sunny days will allow sunshine into the home for natural heat gain while closed curtains on cloudy days will help trap furnace heat inside. Remember that glass windows are one of the biggest sources of heating loss on cold days, so the proper use of curtains can provide a significant reduction in energy use.
- Have your ducts inspected and seal any leaks with appropriate material such as mastic or non-cloth backed tape labeled with FX. A leak in a duct system often results in a heat loss to an area that does not require heating such as an attic, basement crawl space, or garage.
- Set your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water tank is located in an unheated area such as a garage, installing an insulating blanket on the water tank is a good idea. Make sure the blanket is installed properly and is in accordance with fire resistance requirements.
- Keep your furnace clean and have it checked regularly. Clean or replace filters at least once every three months.
- Use zone heating by closing rooms off that are unoccupied. This can be accomplished by shutting the door to the area and closing off supply ducts in the room.
- Install do-it-yourself weather stripping and caulking around doorways and windows to eliminate air seepage. Insulating foam in spray cans is another product to consider.
- Install vinyl glazing as an inexpensive storm window. Typically, this can be accomplished for under $1 per square foot by the homeowner.
Moderate Cost Actions
- Insulate your home. For ceilings and attics use R-30 and for floors in unheated areas use R-19. Contact a professional for a recommendation in your particular case.
- Buy a new efficient hot water heater.
High Cost Actions
Consider installing a new high efficiency gas fired furnace. If your unit is over 15 years old or a low efficiency model, now is a good time to think about getting a new unit installed. Remember, your payback period decreases as the cost of energy increases.