- Have your furnace and ductwork inspected annually.
- Caulk, seal, and weatherstrip openings from your home to the outside. Possible savings: 10%.
- Increase your attic insulation if the joists are showing. Recommended levels: R-30 to R-38 or 10-16 inches blown.
- Install plastic sheeting or storm windows over old or leaking windows.
- Unless it is equipped specifically for home heating, use your fireplace sparingly.
- Warm air escapes through a chimney. Close the damper if the fireplace is not in use.
- Install a programmable thermostat; set it lower for times when you are away.
- Lower your thermostat to 68 degrees.
- Shade your windows for possible savings of 10-25%.
- Open draperies and shades on sunny windows to allow more sunlight and heat during the day. Close them at night to conserve heat.
- Move furnishings away from floor or return air vents.
- Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans sparingly. They can pull warm air from your home quickly.
- Encourage members of your household to layer clothing and use throws instead of turning up the heat.
- Take shorter showers. Open bathroom doors after showers to allow warm, moist air to circulate.
- U.S. Dept. of Energy Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
- Energy calculator
- Video: Watch Seal Ductwork
- Video: Watch Seal Air Leaks
- Video: Watch Seal Off Fireplaces
- Video: Watch Lower Your Thermostat
- Video: Watch Change Furnace Filters Monthly
- Video: Watch Weatherstrip Doors and Windows
Rita of Central Ohio installed an energy efficient furnace and heat pump, a programmable thermostat, switched to CFL lighting and bought ENERGY STAR appliances.
I'm saving around $100/month on my utilities (electric and gas) thanks to my new furnace, heat pump and programmable thermostat. It's great to know that I'm not wasting energy by having the house heating when no one's home.
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