THE HEAT BEAT energy-saving newsletter -- A few seasons ago, we published an energy-saving newsletter.  The tips it contains are as relevant now as they were then, perhaps more so!  Click either link below for the edition tailored to your area.

• Baltimore & Howard Counties
• Carroll & Frederick Counties (including Southern PA)

Click here for HELP for saving on electric heat, including heat pumps.

Below is a list of more great tips and investments that we have found to work well. Some are easy to do, and others take a little more time, effort, and/or money. All of them will help you save money and stay comfortable year-round.  For more do-it-yourself maintenance suggestions click here.

QUICK & EASY

Savings: 10% – Have your system tuned up annually. We'll adjust your unit to perform at maximum efficiency and correct any minor problems before they become big ones. A tune-up can extend the life of your equipment.

Savings: 5-10% – Use natural heating.  Open the blinds and curtains in your house on sunny days to let the sun's rays warm your rooms. At night, close them to keep the heat inside. If you feel chilly, add a layer of clothing before turning the heat up.  (A loose-fitting wool or wool-blend sweater will usually do the trick.)

Savings: 5-10% – Block drafts by placing door snakes (or rolled-up towels) across the bottom of doors that lead outdoors or to basements and attics.  Keep the damper on your fireplace closed when not in use.

Savings: 5-10% – Arrange your furniture so that the heat source is not blocked.

Additional savings – Close the vents in rooms you don't use.  This will direct more heat (or cooling) to the rooms you do use.

SATURDAY SPECIALS

Savings: 20% – If drafty windows are a problem, rope caulk is the easiest and least expensive way to retain heat. Rope caulk is reusable for two to three seasons, but once it hardens, it should be thrown away. Thoroughly washing the area where it is to be used will help it stay put.

Savings: 5-10% – Hang insulating curtains or drapes. They can be closed at night to significantly lessen heat loss. In the summer, they can be closed to keep out unwanted heat. The best insulating drapes fit into tracks that are installed alongside the frame to keep air from passing around the edges.

Savings: 15% – Install a programmable thermostat. It can help you control your fuel usage by turning down the heat automatically when you're asleep or not at home.

CONTRACTOR SPECIALS

Savings: 30% – 50% – Upgrade your old heating system with a modern high-efficiency unit.

Savings: 30% – Consider replacing your windows if you see any of the following:

• Rotted or damaged wood
• Cracked glass
• Missing putty
• Poorly fitted sashes (the panes rattle or the windows don't stay up when you open them)
• Non-working locks.

Savings: 30% – Upgrade your attic insulation. Find out what and how much insulation you currently have. Make sure it's the right thickness and material. You'll get the most payback from properly insulated attic floors.

And click here to check out some of the clever tips our friends in Maine have for staying warm!