Sustainability Programs

Recycling programs | Energy Efficiency

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Do-it-yourself suggestions for saving energy and lowering utility bills during the winter season:

1. Windows/Doors
• Use silicone caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks, especially around frames.
• Install window insulator kits (shrink-fit clear plastic) to stop drafts.
• Use door sweeps and thresholds to stop floor drafts. An easy solution is to roll up a towel along the bottom of a drafty door.
• Open curtains on the south side of your house to allow the sun to heat your rooms during the day;
close the curtains at night to help keep the chill out.

2. Furnace
• Check your furnace filter monthly and change it if needed. Changing the filter frequently ensures that dirt and dust are not clogging the air flow and causing your furnace to work harder and use more energy.
• Be sure that nothing is blocking heating vents, baseboard heaters or radiators.

3. Water Heater
• Lower your water heater temperature to 120°F – the suggested setting for most households – unless you have a dishwasher without a preheater. Many water heaters are set to 140°F by installers. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on operating the thermostat. Most gas water heater temperature settings are located near the bottom of the tank by the gas valve. Electric water heater settings are generally behind a panel, sometimes having one for each the bottom and top heating elements. Be sure to shut the electricity off before removing any panels.
• If your water heater is in an unheated area of your house, wrap it with a purchased insulation blanket.
• Insulate water pipes with foam to reduce heat loss, especially near the water heater.

4. Thermostat
• Try setting your thermostat at 68°F, or lower if it is still comfortable.
• Turn your thermostat down to 65°F when you are away from your house or at night. If you will be
gone for the weekend, turn the thermostat down to 55°F.
• Invest in a programmable thermostat that regulates heating based on your preset schedule.

5. Ceiling Fans
• Make sure your ceiling fans are turning clockwise. This is the setting which creates and updraft of
warm air and forces it down to the floor level. The switch for changing the rotation of the fan is located on the fan near the base of the pull chain.

Source: http://www.development.ohio.gov/cdd/oee/publications.htm