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.

 

 

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