Tips For Conserving Energy

Atlas, the cold season is upon us. If you are feeling like the rest of us you are probably a bit chilly. There are some simple steps you can take to preserve the heat in your house and keep those toes warm!

First, be sure your storm windows and doors are installed. When installed properly this is a major factor in saving fuel. Conserve energy

by closing outside doors promptly and securely. Keep all of the doors of an attached garage closed. This is a huge escape for heat!

Lowering the thermostat setting in unoccupied rooms and closing the doors can also save energy.

In occupied rooms you can lower your heating bill by as much as three percent for every one degree you reduce your thermostat. The thermostat must be lowered for at least 24 hours in order to save this three percent. Note that programmable thermostats are one of the best energy investments you can make if you have central heating. Prices are reasonable between $30.00 and $150.00 depending on what features you wish to have. This programming device allows you to set specific times for your heating unit to either increase or lower the temperature in your house. Programmable thermostats are great for persons away during the day when increased temperatures are not needed.

Insulating exposed hot water pipes with foam pipe sleeves can help reduce costs to heating your hot water. It takes a lot of energy to keep a 50-gallon tank of water hot around the clock! In addition, you can insulate your water heater. This can save energy since most are located in cold basements. Don’t forget to replace or repair hot water faucets if they drip.

Keep windows and doors closed and locked when not opened for ventilation. Sometimes the closed windows and doors have leaks around them. They may seem small and insignificant, individually, but when added up it could mean a big area of escaping heat! The best way to prevent these escapes, is to be sure you have proper caulking and weather stripping around them. Keep in mind this is an on-going maintenance process that takes time and patience!

Some heat is actually lost through the glass if you don’t have new energy-efficient windows. When you close the shades and curtains at night you can help reduce this heat loss.

Furthermore, if you leave the fireplace damper open you will lose a considerable amount of heat.

Remember, these items individually may not seem like a huge energy saver but combined they could save you some cold toes and some cold cash!

Susan Monaghan
Ridge Line Home Inspection, LLC
414-530-7773