Low-Cost Winter Energy Savings Tips  

Insulating and Sealing Air Leaks

• Caulk and place weatherstripping on windows and doors that leak air.
• Install switch and outlet gaskets / foam inserts located on outer walls.
• Insulate heat ducts that travel through unheated areas of your home, such as crawl spaces, the attic and garage.
• Seal up areas on outer walls and basement around plumbing penetrations.
• Fill gaps around chimney.

Heating and Ventilation

• Install a programmable thermostat with your furnace to adjust the temperature setting while you sleep or no one is home.
• Replace the furnace filter monthly or when dirty.
• Have your furnace inspected and tuned-up by a professional before the heating season.
• If you have radiators, place heat-resistant reflectors (i.e., aluminum or aluminum foil) between the exterior walls of your home and the radiators.

Water Heater

• Install a heater jacket for the water heater (do not install jacket if heater has foam insulation).
• Place foam pipe wrap around warm water pipes (keep wrap 12 inches away from top of heater).

Windows

• Install plastic on windows.

Lighting

• Replace conventional light bulbs with efficient compact fluorescent lights (CFL) or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs.