Energy Saving Heating & Insulation Tips
No Cost
- Turn Down the Thermostat—Consider turning down your thermostat to 55 degrees when the house is unoccupied. At night when you are sleeping, consider turning your thermostat down to 60 degrees.
It is a common myth that it takes more energy to re-heat a home that has been set to a lower temperature than it does to keep the heat at a constant level. The more you turn down the heat when you don't need it, the more you will save.
- Adjust Window Treatments—During the day, let sunlight in by opening curtains, blinds and shades on the windows facing the sun to keep your home warm and reduce heating needs. At night or when the sky is overcast, keep drapes and curtains closed to keep heat indoors.
Low Cost
- Seal Leaks—Seal any leaks in your heating or cooling system ducts. Savings: as much as 20% of heating/cooling costs.
- Caulk & Weather-strip—By sealing air leaks around windows, doors, pipes and ducts you can reduce drafts and energy costs.
- Install Window Films—Use window-insulator kits to cover windows with clear plastic sheets to stop drafts and reduce energy costs.
- Seal Off Receptacles—Seal off electric receptacles and switch boxes with foam gaskets.
- Insulate Pipes—Insulate hot water pipes that provide heat to the rooms in your home. This will reduce heat loss in uninsulated areas and will help your heating system work more efficiently.
- Clean Boilers & Furnaces—Make sure your boiler or furnace is cleaned and serviced annually by qualified personnel for optimum efficiency. Cleaning substantially extends the life of your heating system while ensuring that it’s operating safely.
Good Investment
- Insulate:
- Insulate attic access and basement bulkhead doors.
- Cut your heating costs up to 25% with proper insulation. Insulate ceilings, walls, floors and heating ducts. This insulation will not only keep heat from escaping, but will also make your home more comfortable.
