Given the consistently low temperatures we’ve been experiencing here in New Hampshire this winter, it seemed fitting to add another “layer” of suggestions for dealing with the chill.
More specifically, here are a few ideas that might help you avoid throwing money out the window:
- Check for air leaks around doors, windows, wires going into your home or office building, and along the foundation; these can be plugged with caulking. Install weather-stripping on thresholds to seal gaps. Doing these inexpensive things can save up to 10% on your energy bill.
- Install insulated window treatments if you can’t afford to install more energy efficient windows. Pull shades closed at night and open during the day; be sure to let in the sun to help warm your space naturally.
- Check Filters on heating and cooling equipment. Using old dirty filters restricts air flow causing your system to work harder. Also, schedule a “tune up”. Keeping your furnace running well can save up to 5% of your heating costs. It is suggested a family of 4 with pets should change a filter every 60 days.
- Install a programmable thermostat, or even better, multiple ones in multiple zones. Be sure to install them away from heating and cooling units, drafts, windows, direct sunlight, or bright lights. When you are not going to be in a room for some time, lower the heat setting to 68 degrees. For every degree you lower your heat in the 60-70 degree range, you save up to 5% on heating costs! When leaving for extended periods of time you can even set back to 55 degrees, which can save as much as 20% on heating costs!
- Insulate wherever you can. Check your attic, basement, crawl spaces, pipes and ducting. You may need to upgrade the level of insulation or replace old insulation.
- Cover up unused vents and remove window AC units.