Conservation Tips

Heating Conservation Tips

1. Make sure your ceiling has at least six inches of good thermal insulation.
2. Replace any cracked glass in your windows.
3. Keep ductwork in good repair with duct tape or duct insulation.
4. Correct air leaks around windows, doors and electrical outlets.
5. Remove air conditioning window units, or cover them well.
6. Open curtains, blinds and drapes to let the sun warm your home during the day.
7. Repair weather stripping and caulking.

Cooling Conservation Tips

1. If you have a fireplace, keep the damper tightly closed when not in use. A glass fire screen can help minimize the loss of conditioned air.
2. Keep air conditioner filters clean during cooling season to improve efficiency and the life of your air conditioner.
3. Cook on the grill to keep cooking heat outside the home.
4. By raising your thermostat setting from 72 to 78 degrees, you can save approximately $100 during the summer.
5. Consider buying a whole house or attic fan. It draws in cool nighttime air through your open windows and forces out hot air that builds up during the day.
6. Install reflective window coatings to reflect heat away from your home.

 Year-Round Conservation Tips

1. You can save as much as 10% a year on your energy bills by simply turning your thermostat down during the heating season or up during the cooling season when you leave home for more than two hours.
2. Schedule a tune-up. Not only will a tune-up ensure your heating equipment is working at its optimum efficiency, but it will also save you up to 5% on your annual energy bills.
3. Don't leave the fridge door open! Every time you do, up to 30% of the air inside can escape. The same can be said for your oven.
4. Repair and weatherize your storm windows.
5. Close off rooms you don't use - and remember to shut the vents inside.
6. Clean your dryer's filter after each use. A clean dryer filter will allow your dryer to work more efficiently. Dryer filters full of lint will cause your dryer to work harder and longer, using more energy.
7. Make sure your home is properly insulated in order to keep the cool air or heat within the home for a longer period of time.