| 1. |
Install a programmable thermostat that automatically
adjusts the temperature when you're not at home. You could
see up to 15 percent in annual savings by programming your
thermostat 5 degrees lower for eight hours per day during
the winter. |
| 2. |
Set your thermostat at 65-68 degrees during the winter
while you're home during the day, and lower it to 55-58
at night or while you're away. Keep in mind that senior
citizens and people with health problems might require
a warmer setting. |
| 3. |
Use a humidifier in colder months. When air is moist,
you'll feel warmer and you can keep your thermostat lower. |
| 4. |
Check your furnace filter frequently, and replace or
clean it once a month or as needed. A dirty filter can
drive up the cost of heating your home. |
| 5. |
In winter, open draperies to let in the sun's warmth
during the day; close draperies to slow the loss of heat
through the glass at night. |
| 6. |
Rearrange furniture or shorten draperies so heating registers
and air returns aren't blocked. |
| 7. |
Make low-cost storm window by placing plastic over windows. |
| 8. |
Reduce the demand on your water heater by taking shorter
showers. Install water-saving, low-flow shower heads and
set your water to less than full force. |
| 9. |
Lower the temperature setting on your washing machine.
Most of the energy your washing machine uses is for heating
water. Wash your laundry with warm or cold water rather
than hot; then rinse in cold water only and save at least
50 percent on your washer's energy costs. |
| 10. |
Turn your water-heater thermostat to no more than 140
degrees. |
| 11. |
Set your dishwasher on the low-temperature setting unless
your dishes are very dirty. |
| 12. |
Insulation and Weatherstripping |
| |
| a. |
Weatherize your home. Use caulking and weather stripping
around doors and windows to seal cracks and leaks.
Hold a feather or a burning incense stick in front
of a window. If the feather or smoke moves away from
the window, you have a leak and should weatherize. |
| b. |
Check the attic insulation. Proper insulation can
reduce your heating and cooling bills by up to 30 percent.
If you have less than 7 inches of fiberglass insulation
in your attic, consider adding another layer. The higher
the insulation value, the better protection you have
against cold and heat |
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