| "Keep
the Heat Out, the Cool In"
Don't forget to close the
fireplace damper to prevent conditioned air from escaping through the
chimney.
Caulk around windows, doors, pipes, and anywhere else air can leak in
and out. Use
weather stripping around windows, and doors.
Have your heating and cooling
ducts tested for air leakage. Leaking ducts can effect the efficiency
of your heating or cooling system by
up
to 20%. Make any necessary repairs.
Insulate ceilings to R-30 standards if your attic is less than R-19.
Make sure attics have adequate ventilation. You can save more if you
also insulate walls, floors and duct work.
Close windows when heating or cooling.
Install storm or thermal (replacement)
windows. These tightly fitting windows give extra protection with double-pane
glass.
Use curtains, shades and blinds
to block the sun's rays from directly entering the home.
Seal off electrical receptacles and switch boxes with foam gaskets or
fiberglass
insulation. Savings: 1-3% percent of heating/cooling costs.
When
re-roofing, consider using lighter colored shingles. Lighter colored
shingles absorb less heat in the summer months.
|
