Low Cost Suggestions to Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency

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With the continuing increase in energy costs, homeowners are increasingly aware of the importance of maximizing the energy efficiency of their heating and cooling systems. There are a number of tips and changes that do not require major investments that can be applied in support of this universal desire:

Start with the Thermostat

Figure 1- Typical Thermostat

• Ensure the thermostat is not located near a draft, placed on a cold outside wall, or too close to any heat source. If so, it will likely respond to inaccurate readings of ambient room temperature.
• During prolonged absences from home in the winter, turn the thermostat to a low setting. Better still, turn the heating system off, provided you can be assured of outside temperatures high enough to keep the pipes from freezing.
• Install a thermostat timer to automatically adjust the temperature based on predefined peak and off-peak hours.
• Minimize the frequency of adjusting the thermostat as constant adjustments will waste fuel, and in the event that it was lowered during an extended absence from the home, reset the temperature at the desired level. Setting it at a higher temperature will not speed up the heating process, but will waste energy.
• Adjust the thermostat to a lower temperature prior to going to bed will over the long term make a significant difference in fuel consumption.
• Lower the thermostat setting when entertaining large groups of people in your home. People generate heat, independent of any heating system.

Follow up with the Windows and Vents

Figure 2- Typical Vent

• Closing the drapes over large windows will lessen heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer.
• If using room air conditioners, all heating system vents should be closed.
• Close the vents and shut the doors to rooms that are seldom used in a home. Ensure enough heat is provided to these rooms to prevent mildew from forming.
• If air conditioning a space, ensure the vents are aimed upward. This will improve air circulation as cold air will naturally settle downward.
• Protect the outside air conditioning unit from direct sunlight and ensure air flow around it is not blocked.
• Only open the fireplace damper when a fire is lit. Updrafts will take heated air right up through the chimney.
• Ensure the house has the correct level of humidity as a dry home can feel cold even if the temperature setting is proper.

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