Tips for Saving Energy

Using energy wisely can reduce consumption and save money on utility bills. Some things cost nothing and can save a lot. Here are some low-cost or even no-cost tips that can result in big savings.
 

• Have your furnace and gas appliances serviced annually by a qualified contractor to ensure safety and maximum energy-efficiency.
  
   

• Check the furnace filter monthly during the heating season and change it if it is dirty.
  
   

• Consider replacing old, inefficient natural gas appliances such as furnaces and, water heaters with new energy-efficient models.
  
   

• Install a programmable thermostat. Using a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the times you turn on the furnace or air-conditioner according to a pre-set schedule. Set your thermostats between 66 and 68 degrees during the winter. For sleep hours, set the temperature at least 5 degrees lower. When away from home for more than a few hours, set your thermostat at 58 degrees.
  
   

• Consider setting your water heater thermostat at a lower setting other than "high".
  
   

• Check your attic and wall insulation, if your attic insulation is less than 6 inches add more.  If you don't have wall insulation, add some.  You might even consider using a thermal camera to identify heat loss locations within your home.
  
   

• Keep all heat registers and air ducts clean and clear from obstructions.
  
   

• Inspect ductwork for damage, duct tap failure or disconnected ducts.
  
   

• Close fireplace dampers when the fireplace is not in use however, natural gas fireplaces require that the dampers be permanently blocked open.                      
  
  

• Seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings, such as pipes or ducts, with caulking or weather-stripping. 
  
   

• Close vents and doors in unused rooms. Check with your heating/HVAC contractor to see if this will work well with your heating system design.       
  
   

• Use draperies, awnings, blinds or shutters on all windows to slow the loss of heat through the glass. In winter, keep window coverings open on sunny days to let the sun's warmth in and close them at night to insulate against cold, outside air. Use drapes, shutters, awnings, shade trees, glass with reflective film or solar screens to keep sunlight out in the summer. 
  
   

• Use kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans sparingly in cold weather. In just one hour, these fans can blow away a household of warm air.
  
   

• Use ceiling fans to push warm air down and circulate it around a room during the winter months.  Use ceiling fans to pull cool air up and circulate it around a room during the summer months.
  
   

• Heating systems, especially forced air furnaces, dry the air in a home. Dry air feels colder than moist air at the same temperature. Use a humidifier to add the correct amount of moisture to indoor air, making it feel comfortable at a lower temperature.
  
   

• Only use your washer, dryer, and dishwasher with full loads.
  
   

Natural Gas Cooking Savings Tips