Seasonal tips


Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer

Fall

  • Clean and prepare chimneys for winter use.
  • Invest in an energy-efficient, ENERGY STAR® furnace, which uses less energy.
  • Reinstall storm windows.
  • Seal any cracks in the home that allow heat to escape.
  • Prepare all heating equipment for winter use.
  • Remove window awnings and store away.

Winter

  • Moving furniture away from air vents will increase heat flow.
  • Insulate cold areas, such as attics and basements.
  • Avoid losing through the chimney by using dampers when the fireplace is not in use.
  • Use ceiling fans to help warm rooms. A clockwise setting circulates warm air best.
  • Save energy by using natural light over electric.
  • Keep your thermostat on the lowest comfortable setting.
  • Weather strip and caulk any drafty windows.
  • Change heating filters frequently to ensure proper system operation.
  • Exhaust fans draw heat from the house, so limit their usage
  • Turn the thermostat down before leaving the house for extended periods.
  • Use energy-efficient holiday lighting. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) and fiber optic trees use less energy and last longer.

Spring

  • Wash and replace all filters.
  • For a cooling effect, ventilate attics, and crawl spaces.
  • Extend the life of kitchen appliances by maintaining coils and seals.
  • Reduce fuel costs and noise with an electric lawnmower.

Summer

  • Use ceiling fans to help cool rooms. A counter-clockwise setting creates the best cooling effect.
  • Close blinds and shades during heat waves. 
  • Maintain air conditioning equipment regularly to ensure optimum use.
  • Shut all windows and screen doors while using air conditioning.
  • Keep vents uncovered to ensure cool air flow.
  • Invest in an energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® air conditioner, which uses less energy.
  • Keep windows open at night when temperatures are cooler and air conditioning is off.
  • For added shade, place awnings over windows facing the sun.
  • Choose roofing products that reflect the sun.
  • Plant shade trees around your home to ward off heat.
  • Give your pool heater a rest. Using a solar cover to heat pool water saves money and energy.
  • Invest in a heat pump water heater for your pool. Gas and electric models are less efficient.
  • Use a pool pump that is properly sized to your pool. Oversized pumps waste energy.
  • Don’t over-run your pool filter. Use a pool pump with an automatic timer.
  • Run pool pumps on low speed. It may take longer to clean the pool, but uses less energy.

        (05/31/07)