Wintry weather came early this year with several days of snowfall and then single-digit temperatures. Heating costs also started increasing early and will continue as the coldest months arrive. Follow these tips to save energy and money during this upcoming winter season.
- Close shades and drapes at night to keep heat inside your home.
- Open shades and drapes during the day to catch free solar heat.
- Ensure windows and doors are properly weather-stripped.
- If your health or age permits, set your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (and even lower when you are sleeping or away from home).
- Install a programmable thermostat (and program it) to automate raising and lowering the temperature settings.
- Change HVAC filters monthly.
- Close fireplace dampers when not burning a fire.
- When using the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening the damper in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or opening the nearest window slightly.
- Caulk around plumbing penetrations that come through walls or floors beneath bathroom and kitchen sinks.
- Caulk along baseboards with a clear sealant.
- Caulk around storm windows and basement windows.
- Ensure the attic access door closes tightly.
- Insulate the attic access door.
- Use heavy-duty, clear sheets of plastic on the inside of windows to reduce the amount of cold air entering your home.
- Verify all outdoor doors (including storm doors) close and seal tightly.
- Use space heaters wisely and safely.
These tips are from the Touchstone Energy® brochure 101 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money.
Photo by Valley Rural Electric Cooperative