To help conserve the energy you use, follow these energy saving tips:
- Consider a High Efficiency Furnace - High efficiency gas furnaces reduce heating costs up to 50% (over a heating season) compared to similar equipment that is 10 to 15 years old.
- Heating System Tune-up - Inefficient heating systems can waste energy and money. To ensure your heating system is operating most efficiently, have a qualified licensed contractor inspect your system. A tune-up usually consists of testing the system for combustion efficiency, cleaning nozzles or burners, changing filters and making fuel/air mixture adjustments.
- Chimneys and Vents - Clear chimneys and vents of animal nests, debris and obstructions. This will help your heating system operate efficiently and prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Filters - Dirty Filters reduce air flow and make heating systems work harder and use more energy. Dirty or clogged air filters can increase operating costs up to 10%. Change the filters on forced air systems once per month during the heating season.
- Heating Ducts - Make sure heating ducts are free of cracks and leaks. Seal cracks and leaks with metal duct tape. Install duct insulation, especially where ducts run through unheated spaces.
- Adjusting Your Thermostat - Lowering your thermostat one degree can save up to 3% on your heating fuel for each degree below 73 degrees. Set your thermostat to 68 or lower during the day and 65 at night. Add an extra layer of clothing and blankets. Caution should be taken when elderly persons or infants are in the home. A programmable thermostat is an effective way to automatically change temperature settings.
- Air Vents and Registers - Make sure furniture, drapes and carpeting do not cover air supply registers and cold air returns.
- Take Advantage of the Sun - In the winter, open drapes during the day to take advantage of solar gain. At night, close the drapes to keep the heat in.
- Range-top Burners Or Ovens - Never use range-top burners or ovens for home heating purposes. Continuous burning can lead to the production of carbon monoxide and/or fire hazards.
