Save On Heating And Cooling

• In the summer, raise your thermostat to 78 degrees; in the winter, keep the thermostat at 68 degrees. You can save 7% on cooling costs in the summer for every degree you increase the setting above 78. Take advantage of the more moderate temperatures in the spring and fall, and turn off your climate control system if possible.
  
• Change filters on your heating and cooling systems every month. Dirty filters, by inhibiting the flow of air into your system, result in greater energy use and higher bills.
  
• Install ceiling fans and use them in the summer and the winter. To make optimal use of their energy-saving capacity, fans should run counterclockwise in the summer to draw cool air up from the floor and clockwise in the winter to push warm air down from the ceiling.
  
• Because they are out of sight, ducts can also be out of mind. Ducts with holes or that are improperly aligned cause significant energy loss over time. When having your climate control system inspected, have the maintenance specialist check your ductwork for problems.
  
• Weather-strip doors to keep unwanted hot or cold air out of your home. Front doors, in particular, are the biggest source of energy loss. Caulk windows and make sure that sliding glass windows and doors are firmly shut.
  
• Keep shades and drapes closed in the summer, particularly in windows facing the sun. Reverse this process in the winter so that warm sunlight can enter your home.
  
• Keep your fireplace damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.