Monday, November 28, 2011

Conserve Energy and Protect Your Home this Winter

It’s that time of the year, again! The leaves have fallen from the trees. The Christmas spirit is definitely in the air. But, before you set up those Christmas lights around your tree and house, be sure to read through the following to help protect your home, while also conserving energy:
                                                                                                                                                         
Did you know windows are a major source of heat loss?
  • Use drapes, shutters, awnings, shade trees, glass with reflective film and/or solar screens to keep your house cooler in the summer. Let sunlight in during the winter to help warm your house.
  • You can also eliminate air leaks in your home with caulking, sealants or weather stripping. Look for leaks around windows, doors, plumbing, ducts, and electrical outlets.
This is one of my husband’s favorite - one I grudgingly apply :).
  • Set the thermostat between 65 and 70 degrees during the winter, and 58 degrees when away from the house for more than a few hours. Before sleeping, lower the thermostat and add an extra blanket for warmth. Bear in mind that warmer temperatures are recommended for homes with ill or elderly people or infants.
  • Keep heat registers and air-return vents unobstructed. Your furnace must be able to circulate air freely to work efficiently. Arrange your furniture with heating economy in mind.
  • Heat rises so use registers to direct warm air–flow across the floor. Ceiling fans can also help circulate warm air into the living area.
  • Close vents and doors in unused rooms and close dampers on unused fireplaces.
These are simple things you can easily do to help conserve energy this winter and protect your home from possible fires.
Happy Holidays to you and yours!

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