Weatherization

Making your home more energy efficient can reduce your energy bills while improving comfort as well. A few simple tasks go a long way toward using energy wisely.

Seal air leaks in your home
In the winter months, a large portion of your natural gas bill comes from heating your home. Don’t let that warm air escape. Sealing air leaks with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping can be a cost-effective way to improve both energy efficiency and comfort. Start by sealing leaks in your attic, basement and crawlspace. Next, seal around windows, doors and electrical outlets.

Seal the leaks in your ductwork
Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by 20 percent or more. Accessible ducts, such as those in attics, basements, crawlspaces and garages, can be sealed using a specialized sealant called duct mastic available at home improvement stores (duct tape is not recommended). If you need major duct repair, consult a local heating contractor.

Add more insulation to your home
In most homes, the easiest and most cost effective place to add insulation is in the attic. Inadequate insulation in your attic could be draining as much as 30 to 50 percent of your home’s heat.

Maintain your equipment
One of the simplest things you can do to ensure your heating equipment is operating efficiently is to regularly change your air filter. Check it every month, and replace it if it looks dirty. At a minimum, it should be changed every three months. A dirty filter wastes energy because it prevents air flow.

Install a programmable thermostat
Programmable thermostats are ideal for homes that sit empty during set periods of the week. Depending on your family’s work or school schedule, you can see significant savings by sticking with those settings or adjusting them as appropriate. The key is to establish a program that automatically reduces heating and cooling in your home when you don't need as much.

At times, it’s necessary to replace equipment in your home. Consider upgrading to more efficient models whenever possible. How do you know it’s time?

Upgrade heating equipment
If you have a natural gas furnace that’s more than 15 years old, it may be time to upgrade to a more efficient model. A new natural gas furnace could save you up to 20 percent in operating costs.

Upgrade your water heater
Water heating can account for 15 to 25 percent of a home’s energy use. If your natural gas water heater is more than 10 years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a more efficient model.