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.
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! |
