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Winter Energy Tips

Stay Warm Without Breaking the Bank

As the temperature drops outside, follow these tips for staying warm and cozy while saving energy and money.

  • Lower the Temperature Setting. Home heating is the largest user of energy and offers the greatest opportunity for savings. Set your programmable thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and lower the set point when you’re sleeping or away from home.
  • Close Fireplace Dampers When Not in Use. Stop warm air from escaping through chimneys.
  • Move Furniture and Drapes Away from Heat Sources. Remove furniture or items which block vents. Open any register or baseboard dampers.
  • Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air. Make sure that the fan blades are slowly spinning clockwise to draw cold air up and force warmer air down.
  • Cover Window Air Conditioners. Remove or cover window air conditioners to reduce drafts.
  • Replace Old Windows. Replace old, drafty windows with new, energy-efficient windows for added insulation and less heat loss.
  • Seal Basement Windows and Doors. Use weather-stripping or caulk to seal up cracks and prevent drafts in windows and doorframes. Beneath doors, install draft guards available at hardware stores.