(NUI) - Even the nicest homes can be uncomfortable if you're trying to keep
energy costs low during the cold winter months.
With these improvements, however, you can increase your home's
efficiency.
* Add padding. Make sure your home is properly insulated to help trap heat
indoors; it's one of the most convenient and cost-efficient ways to reduce
energy usage. You will need a contractor to add insulation to exterior walls,
but you can easily add attic insulation yourself.
* Save with your thermostat. Lower your winter heating bill by setting your
thermostat as low as comfortably possible.
Consider purchasing a programmable thermostat. The Tempstar line of
programmable thermostats, for example, work at a more cost-efficient temperature
while you're asleep or away from home and raise the temperature to warm your
home just before you wake up or return.
* Consider an upgrade to your heating system. In the long run, a new and more
energy-
efficient heating system can pay for itself with energy savings.
The Tempstar SmartComfort VS 90 operates at a 90 percent Annual Fuel
Utilization Efficiency, which means it uses 90 cents of every dollar you spend
to heat your home. Less efficient furnaces might only use 60 cents to 80 cents
of every dollar to heat your home. It also has a variable-speed blower motor,
which uses up to 50 percent less electricity than furnaces equipped with
conventional blower motors.
* Stop the leaks. Warm air escaping through leaks in your home results in a
significant amount of wasted money and energy. Caulk, seal and weather-strip all
seams and cracks. If you have a fireplace, keep the damper closed to keep your
heated air from flying up the chimney.
* Cut water heating costs. Use less hot water, insulate the water heater and
lower its temperature setting. Also keep in mind that a leaking faucet can waste
gallons of water in a short time, so be sure to repair leaks promptly.
* Let the sun warm the home. Open curtains and blinds on the south side of
the house during the day.
For more ideas on money- and energy-saving improvements, contact your local
Tempstar contractor. To find the contractor nearest you, visit www.tempstar.com
and click on "Dealer Locator."
