ENERGY SAVING TIPS FOR THE WINTER ..

ENERGY SAVING TIPS FOR THE WINTER

October 22nd, 2011

Seal leaks. EnergyStar.gov figures you can save 10% of your annual energy bill with proper sealing and insulation (see below). Caulk is a cheap fix, and there are several easy ways to identify leaks. There's the one Stacy mentioned: Use a candle and watch for the flicker. Another is to grab a flashlight and a helping hand tonight. Light will shine through from the other side of cracks leaking air. You can also test doors and windows with a simple sheet of paper. Shut them over the paper and try to pull it free. If it comes out without tearing, you have a leak. Check high and low: attics, basements, foundations, windows, doors, and anywhere different building materials meet or where pipes enter and exit.

Add more insulation. As you heard in the video, this can run $500 for an average-sized home. But it takes only a few hours, and will save year-round. Adding insulation to walls can be tricky and expensive, but the attic is usually easy to get to and makes a big difference. EnergyStar.gov suggests how you can tell whether you need to add insulation at a glance: If the insulation isn't level with or above the floor beams, get more. For step-by-step instructions and safety info, check out this insulation guide from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Air filters. The cheapest fix on the list is not the least important: Air filters should be changed at least every three months. A dirty air filter wastes energy by blocking air flow. It can also lead to costly repairs for your furnace, so don't overlook this simple $3 job.

Programmable thermostat. Being able to schedule temperature adjustments for when you're asleep or away from home is an easy way to save money. EnergySavers.gov says you can save 10% to 15% on your annual heating costs by turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours. (The savings are greater in milder climates.) It also debunks an old myth: "A common misconception associated with thermostats is that a furnace works harder than normal to warm the space back to a comfortable temperature after the thermostat has been set back, resulting in little or no savings." It doesn't work that way, so don't be afraid to turn it down. And putting on an extra layer of clothes, rather than turning it back up, will save even more money.

Water heater. A jacket to insulate your water heater can cost $25, but cuts water heating costs up to 9%. Here are instructions. EnergySavers.gov also suggests setting the temperature to 120 degrees, noting that each 10-degree drop produces a savings of 3% to 5%.

To save $ on the home you want TO SELL and the one you plan to buy, call
MARY ANN LIPSEY today. 281-723-8200 or 281-353-8744

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Mary Ann Lipsey