Pumpkin spice everything has arrived with sweater weather soon to follow, which means it’s a good time to consider ways to lower energy bills as New England’s crisp autumn months usher in colder days and the home heating season begins.
While Maine and New Hampshire sweltered through their warmest meteorological summer on record this year, it’s only a matter of time before those overworked air conditioners are packed away and the heat kicks in.
“Homeowners often don’t realize that there are some easy, cost-effective steps they can take to keep their homes warm and cozy while reducing their energy usage during the fall season,” Unitil External Affairs Director Alec O’Meara said. “Even something as simple as leaving curtains and shades open on south facing windows to take advantage of the sun’s warmth can make a big difference. Just remember to close them at night to prevent the heat from escaping.”
With the change in seasons, Unitil recommends customers take a proactive approach by following these energy saving tips:
- Improve your home’s insulation by finding and sealing air leaks around windows and door frames with caulk and installing weather-stripping on doors.
- Check for drafts around recessed lighting, attic entrances, air ducts and even outlets and switches.
- Be sure to check your furnace filter once a month and replace it if needed, especially during the colder months when it’s used more regularly. Filters on heat pumps should also be checked monthly. If you have a boiler, make sure you have it cleaned and serviced annually.
- Remove window air conditioners during the fall and winter months.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR® certified light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. LEDs use up to 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. For those planning to display string lights as part of their autumn and Halloween decor, choose ENERGY STAR certified LED lights.
- Adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a big difference. For instance, set it at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for heating when you’re home and awake, but turn the thermostat back several degrees each time you leave the house for two or more hours, and again when you go to sleep at night.
- Consider installing a smart thermostat, which can be programmed to adjust the temperature throughout the day and night.
For more information on ways to save during the colder months, visit unitil.com/ways-to-save.
