Top Heating and Cooling Tips

Heating and cooling account for 44 percent of your total utility bill, more than any other system in your home. No matter what kind of heating, A/C or ventilation system you use, proper maintenance or upgrading your equipment will save your money and increase your comfort.

• Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in winter as high as possible in summer.



• Clean or replace furnace or A/C filters once a month.



• Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators - make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.



• Bleed trapped air from hot water radiators twice a season, and place a heat resistant reflector between the radiator and exterior wall.



• Turn off kitchen, bath or other ventilating fans as soon as they have done the job. One fan can pull out a houseful of air in one hour.



• Select energy-efficient equipment when you buy a new furnace or air conditioner.



• Check ducts for air leaks and proper insulation. Leaking or poorly-insulated ducts can add hundreds of dollars to your annual energy bill.



• You live in a moderate climate and use electricity for heat, explore purchasing a heat pump - they can save as much as 30-40% on your electrical heating bill.


• Keep the flue sealed or the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use. A fireplace can send energy dollars right up the chimney.



• Consider installing a whole-house fan to help cool your home.



• Consider adding storm windows or replacing single pane windows with double-pane windows and high-performance glass.



• In summer, close your curtains and shades during the day - in winter open curtains on south and west-facing windows.