One of the easiest ways to cut your heating and cooling bill is to make sure that your attic has seven inches (R-22) or more (up to R-49) of fiberglass or rock wool insulation. A simple step we often ignore—replace or clean your AC vents once a month. Don’t leave your bathroom ventilator running longer than necessary, as it can drain your entire house of cooled or heated air in about an hour! During the summer keep your drapes closed in the heat of the day. In the winter keep the south facing window drapes open. Make sure all windows are caulked and weather-stripped to save 10% on your H/AC bill. White window shades or blinds will deflect the heat away from your house. Lower hot water costs by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets. Insulate your water heater and set its thermostat at 115° F. You can cut up to 50% on your lighting costs by replacing 25% of the bulbs in your main-use areas with fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lights are more expensive but also last six to ten times longer than incandescent bulbs. Plant trees ASAP. Well-placed trees will not only lower your energy costs but will increase the […]
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When the temperature outside begins to fall, our heating bills quickly start to rise. For many homeowners, keeping their house warm in the winter means paying a hefty heating bill. Luckily, there are some ways to help reduce those costs and keep a little extra cash in your pocket for a rainy (and warmer) day. Don’t Be Shade-y Even though it may be cold outside, the sun still tries to peak through on occasion. When it does, make sure to open your curtains and/or blinds in order to welcome the sun’s heat into your home. This will help to add a touch of warmth to help keep your heating costs down. After all, the time for seeking shade from the sunlight is in the summer. Cool It Did you know that the settings on your water heater could be affecting your heating bill? It’s true. Check your owner’s manual or ask a local expert about the ideal settings for your water heater which, if turned down, may still be able to heat your water adequately while reducing your heating bill. Insulation Information Insulation is used to maintain your home’s temperature. Some houses, especially older ones, may require additional insulation to […]
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