Heating & Cooling
Energy Right
Kick it up a degree. When cooling your home, set your thermostat to 78. Anything lower will increase your cooling costs by approximately 5% for every degree below 78. And, if you’re going to be away from home, try setting your thermostat even higher. In the winter, set the temperature at 68. Your heating cost will increase 3% for each degree about 68.
Use a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans circulate air in the summertime to make you feel cooler. During the winter months, reverse the flow to force warm air down off of the ceiling.
High Tech Thermostats. Programmable thermostats can save you money and energy any time of the year. For instance, in the winter you can program the thermostat to run cooler at night and warmer during the day. Interested? Talk to your heating and air conditioning contractor for a programmable thermostat designed specifically for your type of heating / cooling system.
Make sure the lights are off when the air conditioning is on. It’s always a good idea to turn off unused lights – you’ll save energy and money. But it’s especially smart when it’s hot outside. Lights, appliances, and tools generate heat and make your air conditioner work harder. That costs you extra money!
Keep it indoors. Whether you’re heating or cooling, you don’t want your energy going out the door. Caulk and weather-strip around doors and window frames. Closely check any area where pipes go from the outside of your home to the inside, especially plumbing pipes. And, if you have operable storm windows, make sure those are shut too.
