Is Your Home Fall Ready? A Checklist for Energy Upgrades & Seasonal Maintenance
The first day of fall is upon us!
With the changing of the seasons comes a change in the weather, and there are ways to ensure that your home is prepared for cooler temperatures. Here are some tips for energy upgrades and seasonal maintenance to help save money and energy during cold fall and winter months.
Maintain Heating Systems:
Schedule routine service for home heating systems, replace furnace and heat pump filters as needed, and regularly clean wood pellet burning appliances. Replace or clean HVAC filters routinely.
Utilize Sunlight:
Open curtains during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat the home and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.
Adjust Thermostat and Temperatures:
Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature when you are home. Lower the temperature while sleeping or when the house is not occupied to save on heating costs.
Consider a smart thermostat which can make this a simple process. Turning your thermostat back can save as much as 10% each year on heating and cooling bills.
Find and Seal Air Leaks:
Drafts around windows, doors, and other openings can allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter. Start by inspecting windows and doors for gaps or worn weatherstripping. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows. Seal air leaks around pipes, gaps around chimneys, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
Schedule Routine Service:
Annual heating system service helps ensure safe and reliable operating during colder months. The National Energy Improvement Fund (NEIF) works with contractors nationwide who provide customers with quality service, and that are authorized to offer fix, low-monthly payment options for upgrades. Be sure to schedule your service with one of NEIF’s Approved Contractor’s and check out our contractor directory here: https://www.neifund.org/contractor-directory/!
Lower Water Heating Costs:
Did you know that water heating accounts for about 18% of your home’s energy consumption? You can reduce your water heating bills and energy usage by turning down the thermostat on your water heater and using less hot water.
NEIF makes it easy and affordable for homeowners to invest in energy efficiency upgrades through low-cost financing options. In addition to upgrades, following energy tips can help you save money and energy during colder months, while also keeping your home safe, reliable, and comfortable.
Sources: Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips: Department of Energy