The best way to decrease your energy and fuel costs is to replace old outdated equipment with new high efficiency equipment. Here are some other tips that may help.
HEATING
- Install new oil heat equipment. (about 25% savings)
- Install a programmable thermostat.
- Lower your thermostat. Lowering your thermostat settings 10 degrees while you are at work, or at night when you are sleeping can save you as much as 10% on your heating bills.
- Clear any debris from your radiators or vents so heat is not restricted and can circulate with less effort.
- Open the shades during the day so that natural sunlight can warm up the rooms while closing them at night to block the cold air.
- If you have registers vacuum them regularly and be sure nothing is blocking them such as furniture or carpeting.
- Seal any air leaks from heating ducts, windows, doors, etc.
- Lower your hot water temperature. A decrease from 140-130 degrees can save a lot.
- Replace air filters regularly
- Have a professional annually maintain and clean your system.
COOLING
- Keep shades down in the summer to block the warm sun and open them at night to let the cooler air in.
- Replace air filters regularly
- Service the cooling equipment yearly to ensure optimal efficiency
- Consider a whole house or attic fan which will eliminate hot air during the day while bringing in cool air at night.
- Raise your thermostat settings a couple of degrees.
- Clean the coils of your central air conditioner to eliminate dust and dirt
HOT WATER
- Install a high efficiency water heater
- Lower your hot water temperature. A decrease from 140-130 degrees can save a lot.
- Wash clothes in cold water instead of hot water
- Drain water heater frequently to eliminate lime deposits and sediment build up.
- Install flow restricting shower heads
- Insulate your water heater and hot water pipes to reduce heat loss
GENERAL
- Insulate areas where heat may be leaking out such as attics, or unfinished basements. This could save as much as 20% on your heating and cooling expense.
- Replace old windows
- Check to be sure insulation is not getting wet anywhere thus reducing its effectiveness.
- Calk any air leaks around windows, doors, electrical outlets...anywhere you feel a leak.
- Close fireplace damper and kitchen vents when not in use
