A large-scale insulation or sealing project will dramatically improve your energy savings while also decreasing your monthly energy bills. Unfortunately, these types of projects can be costly and disruptive. When you’re looking for ways to boost energy savings and trim your utility costs, many smaller tasks will help do the job quickly and inexpensively.
Regularly change furnace filters: Check the filters in your furnace every month and change them if they get dirty. Clean filters improve HVAC system performance and let your furnace run at its highest level of efficiency and effectiveness. Fresh filters also help keep your indoor air clean and free of particulates such as dust, pollen, and mold.
Block drafts: Put weatherstripping or other draft-blocking materials around doors and windows, particularly in places with noticeable gaps between the frame and the door or window itself. Use a rolled-up towel or blanket to block drafts that come in at the bottom of the door. Use caulk to seal around the window and door casings and the panes of glass in the doors and windows themselves.
Turn down the thermostat: Reducing temperature settings a few degrees can result in considerable energy savings without compromising comfort. Turn the indoor thermostats down to 68 degrees during times you and your family are at home. Reduce temperatures even further when you’re asleep at night or away during the day. A programmable thermostat can automatically handle the setbacks.
Turn the water heater down to 120 degrees: This will produce water that is sufficiently hot for normal household tasks, including cleaning, bathing, and cooking.
Seal air leaks: Check your HVAC ductwork for air and energy leaks, loose sections, or broken connections. Seal and repair these major sources of energy loss. Check areas around your home where pipes, conduits, wires, or other components penetrate the wall. Seal gaps or holes around these penetrations with caulking or weatherstripping.
Pipe Works Services brings ample professional experience to our northern New Jersey heating, air conditioning, and plumbing customers. Contact us today for more information on easy and inexpensive things you can do to increase energy savings this winter. Our goal is to help educate our customers in Chatham, NJ, and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).