Autumn is the time of year when your energy bill typically gets a break, before the extreme temperatures of winter set in. Here are a few ways you can maximize energy savings this time of year, and heading into winter.
- Open the blinds or curtains on your south-facing windows for some free solar gain during the day. This may allow you to hold off turning on your home’s HVAC system.
- If your home needs new windows or doors, this is a great time of year to do it. You won’t lose as much conditioned air, while the work is in progress.
- Find and seal leaks around windows, recessed lights, plumbing and electrical penetrations, unfinished attic, closet and cupboard spaces.
- Replace weather stripping around doors where needed.
- Schedule your HVAC system for maintenance and replace furnace filters.
- If you have a fireplace, be sure your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Also check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible.
