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INSULATION & AIR LEAKS: Insulation is essential for reducing heat flow through a home’s building envelope. Insulation can be added to attic floors and sidewalls; floor and ceiling joists as well can be insulated. Repairing air leaks and drafts in your house can reduce energy costs by 5 to 30 percent per year. Air leaks can happen at electrical outlets, electrical switches, window frames, doors and areas where the ceiling and floor meet. Insulating gaskets, caulk or weather stripping can resolve the problems most of the time. CEILING FAN Switch the direction of the fan blades to spin clockwise, run at low speed to circulate warm air down from the ceiling. Remember warm air rises and cool air descends, so the direction of your fan spins depending on the season. HOT WATER HEATER Turn down the temperature of your hot water heater to the warm setting of 120 degrees, which is the recommended setting. By doing this you will avoid scalding your hands and save money at the same time.
WATER FAUCETS Shut off the exterior water faucet or cover with insulating cap, drain to help from freezing and pipe burst.
SPACE HEATING: One of the easiest ways to save money on heating is to turn down your thermostat during the winter. Every degree the thermostat is lowered for at least 8 hours can reduce energy bills by about 1.5%. If you are routinely away from the home a programmable thermostat can lower your home’s temperature while you are out. With a programmable thermostat you can save about $180.00 a year in heating cost. Check your air filter on your heating system monthly and have an annual tune-up to improve its efficiency.
More information: www.acechallenge.org Winter 2018
ATOT 17