LOVELOCK - Winter is coming. The first sign that winter is coming is the changing of the clocks, and if that doesn't convince you, then the cold night time temperatures should. As the temperatures drop, many of us look for ways to keep our heating bills affordable. On average, households in America spend about $2,200 annually on energy bills. Here are some tips on how to save on energy costs when winterizing your home.
Hunt for leaks ... hunt for air leaks in your home using a thermal leak detector (try Home De-pot, amazon.com or Lowes). This device may run around $50 to purchase and will last you years. It identifies problem spots and drafty areas of your home. You could potentially save up to 20 percent on energy costs. For more information go to energystar.gov.
Do not over-insulate ... Is there such a thing as OVER insulation??? Depending on the geographical location of your home, you may not need insulation with the highest R-value (a measure of its ability to resist heat flow). Here in northern Nevada the recommended R-value for un-insulated attic areas is R49 - R60, for floors R25 - R30 is recommended. For more in-formation go to: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_sealing.hm_improvement_insulation_table.
Change your air filter ONLY when it's dirty...
According to a spokesperson from the United States Department of Energy, you can install a whistle on your furnace that alerts you when your filter is partially clogged and will soon need replacing (cost approximately $2). A clean filter is important as it can prevent expensive maintenance down the road by preventing dust and dirt build-up. For more information go to: http://www.nrgideas.com/products/Air-Furnace-Filter-Alarm-Whistle-%7C--Energy-Saving-Device-%7C-Heating-%26-Air-conditioning-Efficency.html.
Opt for a weatherproofing kit ... If you buy plastic shrink-wrap, weather stripping and electrical-outlet sealers individually, you'll pay about 30 percent more than if you buy them in a set. Use all of these components in your home and you'll reduce energy costs by up to 20 percent.
Improve duct sealing performance ... Because ducts are often concealed in walls, ceiling, attics and basements, repairing them can be difficult. However, there are things that you can do to improve duct performance. Start by sealing air leaks using mastic sealant or metal tape and insulating all the ducts that you can access. Do not use duct tape, as it is not long lasting. Also, make sure that the connections at vents are well-sealed where they meet the floors, walls and ceiling.
Additional steps ... Wrap water heaters and hot water pipes in insulation to improve efficiency. This is especially important in locations where hot water components are exposed to cold temperatures. Reinstall storm doors or windows if they were removed during warm weather. Check the dampers on wood burning fireplaces to make sure they close snugly. If fireplaces are used, the chimney should be clean and free of obstructions.
So take a little time before it gets very cold and survey your home for ways to reduce your energy bills this winter.
[[In-content Ad]]
