Winter of 2011-2012 – So Far Warm is the Word
Right now homeowners are benefiting from a winter that is on track to be 20% warmer than last winter. February can certainly be cold, but consumers are saving money now because of Mother Nature. There are still simple things homeowners can do to improve energy efficiency and save additional money.
1. If you haven’t done so already, get a heating system tune-up.
2. Open shades and drapes when the sun is out to let it help warm your home. Close them when the sun goes down.
3. Turn back the thermostat at night or when you are away from home; for every degree you lower your thermostat for 8 hours or more each day, you’ll save 2 percent on your heating bill.
4. Wrap your pipes to guard against heat loss and prevent them from freezing.
5. Stop drafts by eliminating any gaps between your door and the threshold on the floor.
6. Caulk or re-caulk exterior spaces between the windows and walls of your home.
7. Close your kitchen vent, fireplace damper and closet doors when not in use.
8. Keep radiators and registers free of dust for top efficiency.
