Keep Cold Air Out

Seal leaks around doors, windows, and electrical outlets to avoid losing heat through these cracks.

Heat can escape through electrical outlets, light switches and fixtures on outside walls. Consider installing foam gaskets behind outlets and switches or install plastic security caps to reduce heat loss.

Remove window air conditioners for the winter. If they cannot be removed, seal around them with caulking or tape and cover them with an airtight, insulated jacket.

Use Appliances Efficiently

If your water heater surface is hot or even warm, energy used to heat the water is being wasted. If you never run out of hot water, then you’ve probably set your hot water thermostat too high. Reset it between 110-120 degrees. Wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket. Check user manual and labels on the tank first.

Make sure heating vents aren’t blocked by furniture or drapes and the dampers are open. Vacuum out dust and pet hair from warm air registers and cold air returns so your furnace runs more efficiently.

Invest Wisely in Home Improvements

Thinking of replacing your furnace? Consider getting one rated 90% or higher in efficiency. Replacing your old furnace can save up to 30% on heating costs.

If you’re building a new home or remodeling, place the water heater as close as possible to the kitchen, laundry room and bathrooms. Heat is lost as it moves through pipes, so the closer the unit is to these rooms, the more money you save.

Invest Wisely in Home Improvements

For a minimal cost, you can upgrade the insulation in your exterior walls, crawlspace, basement and attic. Insulation may come in batts or as loose fill that can be blown into hard-to-reach places.

If you have single-pane windows, add storm windows to cut heat loss by up to 50%, or replace with energy-efficient double-pane windows with inert argon gas fill, warm-edge spacers and low-e coating.