Reduce Winter Energy Consumption

Winter is just around the corner, this is a good time to get prepared in order to reduce your winter energy consumption.

One of the best ways to reduce energy use in winter is to use a programmable thermostat. This allows you to set a schedule for when you want your home to be heated or cooled. It can help reduce energy consumption by making sure your home is only heated when you need it to be.

A popular feature of programmable thermostats is their ability to be programmed to adjust the temperature settings according to a schedule. This allows you to set the temperature to be comfortable during the times you are at home and to save energy when you are away. You can also set the temperature to be lower during the night.

Another useful feature of programmable thermostats is the ability to set different temperatures for different zones in your home or office. This allows you to make sure each room is at a comfortable temperature, while still being able to save energy by setting the temperature lower in less-used rooms.

With a programmable thermostat, you have the ability to set temperature ranges. Having a temperature range of sets the thermostat to remain within that range. For example, you could set the thermostat to stay between 68 and 72 degrees fahrenheit. Call us today to set up a time to discuss the parameters for installing a programmable thermostat at your home or office.

Homes and commercial buildings consume 40% of the energy used in the United States. Of the $2,000 the average American spends paying for energy annually, $200 to $400 could be going to waste from drafts, air leaks around openings, and outdated heating and cooling systems.
~ Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, energy.gov

Below are seven steps to winterize your home for winter in Southern Oregon.

1) Seal windows and doors: Check for any air leaks around windows and doors by putting your hand near the edges. If you feel a draft, seal the window or door with weatherstripping or caulk.

2) Install insulation: Make sure your walls, floors, and ceilings are properly insulated. Insulation helps keep heat in and cold out, which helps reduce your heating costs.

3) Change your furnace filter: Change your furnace filter regularly to improve air circulation and reduce dust and allergens.

4) Reverse your ceiling fans: Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to push warm air down and keep the room warmer.

5) Add landscaping: Plant evergreen trees and shrubs around the perimeter of your home to act as a natural windbreak.

6) Clean your chimney: Have your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected before using it to keep your family safe.

7) Check your water heater: Insulating your water heater will reduce energy consumption. On average, water heaters can waste substantial standby heat, which is heat from the water in the tank that’s lost when the water heater isn’t in use. That heat loss is similar to a bot of poling water that is still giving off heat sitting on the stove, even after you have turned off the burner. Its easy to DIY with installing insulation on your water heater which can reduce standby heat loss up to over 40%, saving between 5-10% on your energy bill.