8 Ways to Reduce Your Energy Bill this Fall

The nights are getting cooler and the days are getting shorter, reminding us that winter is just around the corner. And for most of us, the change of seasons will bring increasing energy costs along with it. Here are eight things you can do to control your energy costs this fall without sacrificing your comfort.

1. Turn down your thermostat.

When the colder temperatures arrive, it's tempting to crank up the thermostat—at the expense of your heating bill. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68 degrees while you’re awake at home and setting it lower while you’re asleep or away from home. To stay warm and cozy, wear a sweater and bundle up with a throw blanket while watching TV or working on your computer.

2. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan blades.

This will push down the warm air that gathers near your ceiling and distribute it evenly throughout your home.

3. Let the sun shine in.

To take advantage of the sun’s warmth, keep your window curtains and shades open during the day. Close them at night to keep the heat in and the cold out.

4. Make sure your air vents aren’t blocked.

When your heating vents are blocked by furniture, accessories, or other belongings, your heating system has to work harder to deliver warm air, increasing your energy costs.

5. Watch your hot water use.

Washing Machines:  Nearly 90 percent of your washing machine’s energy is spent heating water. If you switch from hot to warm water, you’ll cut your energy use in half. Using cold water will reduce it even further.

Showers:  Long, hot showers can really do a number on your energy bill. Try taking shorter showers (10 minutes or less) to reduce the energy required to maintain the high temperature and operate your exhaust fan.

6. Seal any cracks or openings around your home.

Use caulking or weather stripping to seal any cracks or openings that allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter your home. Common areas of concern include:

• Doors and Windows

  
  

• Dryer Vents

  
  

• Gas and Electric Service Entrances

  
  

• Cable TV and Phone Line Service Entrances

  
  

• Mail Chutes

  
  

• Pet Doors

  
  

7. Change your air filters every three months.

A dirty air filter will cause your HVAC system to work harder than it should, decreasing its overall efficiency and increasing your energy costs.

8. Schedule a heating system tune-up.

If it has been a while since you’ve had your heating system checked, schedule a tune-up. This will ensure your system is running at peak performance, increasing its lifespan and reducing your energy costs.

Help with Fall Home Maintenance Tasks in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, White Mountains, and Western Maine. 

If you need support getting your home ready for the winter, contact the home maintenance and repair experts at Cormack Construction. We serve the home building, remodeling, and repair needs of homeowners in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, White Mountains, and Western Maine.