Energy Saving Ideas
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Space heating and cooling accounts for about 45 percent of your utility bill and offers the greatest opportunity to improve energy efficiency.
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Adjust the thermostat in small degree changes.Your home won't heat or cool faster by cranking it up.
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Cranking up the thermostat on a heat pump system may turn on the back-up resistance heating strips—adding greatly to your electric bill.
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Install a programmable thermostat that will automatically adjust the temperature according to your schedule. It'll pay for itself in less than a year.
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Change the furnace filter every month.
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Keep furniture and drapes away from the HVAC air supply and return air ducts to increase the energy efficiency of your system.
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When installing a new furnace, check the energy rating and choose a high-efficiency unit for maximum energy savings. This energy saving tip will pay for itself in about 7 years.
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When buying an air conditioner, don't over-size it. Select the proper size and choose an energy-efficient model.
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Install your air conditioning compressor in a shady spot. It'll work more efficiently.
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Allow plenty of room for air flow around the air conditioning compressor for it to operate most efficiently.
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Bleed air from hot water radiators a couple of times each season to make them work more efficiently.
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Major appliances add extra heat to your home and make your air conditioner work harder. Operate them in the morning or evening when it's cooler outside.
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During the winter, remove window air conditioners and seal the windows with caulk and weather stripping.
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Ceiling fans are more energy efficient at circulating the air than turning on the main furnace fan.
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Install a whole-house fan in the attic to draw hot air out of the house. Remember to cover and insulate it during the winter to prevent heat loss.
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Close the doors and shut the vents in the rooms you don't use.
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Use ventilating fans in your kitchen, bath and utility area prudently. In just one hour of use, they can pull out a houseful of warm air.
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