Fight The Winter Chill

We’re counting down the 10 Days of Tips to give you the best information for keeping your home energy efficient this winter. Try to do one tip each day and you’ll be all set before the end of 2019! 

Tips to knock down your utility bill:

1. Set your thermostat to 68 and program it to lower the temperature setting while you’re away to save heating costs.
2. Maintain your furnace. Check the filters every month and replace every three months. A dirty filter slows air flow and wastes energy.
3. Keep the warm air in and the cold air out. Install weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows where you can see light or feel a cold draft.
4. Check insulation levels. Attic insulation should be 10-15 inches deep, depending on the type, and add more insulation if it is low. You can even get a rebate on your purchase!
5. Inspect your water heater. Lower the water temperature to 120 degrees and wrap it with an insulation blanket to reduce heat loss.
6. Inspect ductwork. Loose or damaged ducts allow heated air to escape. Repair, insulate and seal these ducts.
7. Maintain your HVAC. Have a licensed contractor service your HVAC every other year to prevent future problems and unwanted costs.
8. Adjust ceiling fans. In the winter, the ceiling fan should rotate in a clockwise direction, which forces warm air near the ceiling down.
9. Reduce lighting costs. Turn off lights in unoccupied areas and switch to LEDs that use up to 80% less energy.
10. Use the sun. Open the blinds when windows are in direct sunlight, so the sun’s rays naturally warm your home. Close the blinds and curtains when the window isn’t in direct sun to help keep the cold out.