30 Oct
As colder temperatures set in, it’s important to be prepared for the winter season. These tips will help you keep costs down and energy efficiency up:
• Close off unused rooms. Close doors and shut vents in areas you rarely use to help direct heat to occupied spaces within the house.
• Re-evaluate your home’s temperature. Reduce your thermostat setting 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day to save up to 10% on your monthly heating costs.
• Seal air leaks throughout your home. Leaks often occur near pipes, outlets, dryer vents, windows, door and floor trim. Leaks can also occur in unfinished areas. Seal leaks with caulk, weather-stripping or spray-foam sealant designed specifically for windows and doors. You can also use clear plastic film and double-sided tape to cover windows. Insulated drapes and cellular shades help block drafts.
• Have your heating system serviced. Regular maintenance helps it operate efficiently. Change the furnace filter as recommended.
• Reduce heat loss through your fireplace. Keep the damper closed when there’s no fire. A heat-air exchange system and tempered glass doors can more effectively warm the room. Plug and seal the chimney flue if you don’t use your fireplace.
• Take advantage of sunny days. Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows to naturally heat your home. Close them at night to block out the cold.
• Consider a smart or programmable thermostat. Most models can reduce heating and cooling use by an estimated 10% to 30%, and often pay for themselves within one to three years.
• Staggering appliance use is smart year-round. Devices consume steady power and can be easily overlooked. Consider your energy habits for heating, cooking, lighting and entertainment to avoid accidentally running multiple appliances at once.
• Keep the temperature of the water heater at the warm setting (120°F). A lower temperature can reduce your water heating costs.
Get a detailed look at your past and current power use through the My Usage features on SmartHub, CORE’s account management platform. Learn how at www.CORE.coop > My Account > My Usage.
For more tips on how you can be energy-efficient, visit www.CORE.coop > News and Resources > Energy Efficiency.