ENERGY SAVING FALL/WINTER CHECKLIST Submitted by Sean Welsh, Energy Resource Educator
Consider replacing screens on windows with storm windows for an additional barrier from the cold outside winter air.
As the fall settles in, there are tasks that can be done around the home to prepare for cooler weather. Keep in mind that most New Yorker renters or homeowners will qualify for a free home energy assessment right now. If you are interested, contact Energy Educator Sean Welsh, sw288@cornell.edu or call 845 292 6180 ext. 127
Window plastic can be applied to help air seal around drafty windows.
Doors
If you are in the market for new windows, Energy Star certified windows are a more energy efficient option. Air Conditioners Window units should be removed and windows should be locked and secured during the colder months.
years for natural gas. Making sure your duct work is sealed and insulated helps with the efficiency of the system. Heating and Cooling Equipment (HVAC) Look at your HVAC air filters monthly. This is even more important during the winter and summer when these systems are in heavier use. Check with the manufacturing information about how often filters should be cleaned or replaced. Dirty filters will make the system work harder and less efficient.
Door sweeps can be installed to seal gaps beneath doors. Different kinds of door sweeps can be found on the market for a more permanent installation, or a peal and seal product can be removed.
If it is a permanent wall unit, a tight fitting cover can be placed over it to insulate it from the cold air. These covers can be found at most home improvement or hardware stores.
If you are a renter look into rope caulk, which is designed to not chip or peel paint and can provide draft reductions.
Attic and floor vents should not be blocked by furniture, rugs or other obstacles.
Systems should be serviced by professionals annually for a preseason tune up. For systems older than 10 years, new more energy efficient heating and cooling options are available. Systems such as air source heat pumps can give cooling and heating even in colder climates, reducing energy costs.
Caulk and weather-stripping can be installed for a low cost way to lessen heat loss and save energy.
Boilers
Thermostats
Boilers should be serviced annually by a qualified contractor so it is as efficient and working as well as it is able.
Smart thermostats can be programmed to help regulate the temperature of your home, even when outside the home.
When in the market for a new boiler consider an ENERGY STAR certified boiler.
Energy Star certified smart thermostats can be found on utility websites for a reduced cost.
Fireplaces
Utility Online Marketplaces
If not in use, close your fireplace damper to help warm air stay in the home.
Check with your electric utility for rebates on some of the above mentioned equipment. Utilities offer online marketplaces, which give discounts on energy saving products and rebates on appliances and heating and cooling systems. To discuss options for major purchasing decisions, you can check with a community energy advisor to talk about programs, current rebates and incentives to help drive down energy costs and improve the efficiency of a home.
Drapes/Shades On colder days, take advantage of the shades and drapes open while the sun is shining! Insulation Weather-stripping can be installed on doors and caulking can be done around windows to help seal and prevent air leaks, helping to provide more comfort and energy savings. Home energy audits are free for most New York homeowners and renters and can assist those who meet income guidelines with costs associated with some of the recommended upgrades. Call your local Community Energy Advisor at 845 292-6180 ext. 127 to find out if you qualify for a program or to line up a home energy assessment. Windows
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Attic/Floor Vents
Fireplace balloons or chimney plugs can be found at home improvement stores to provide a tighter seal, rather than just the damper alone. A fireplace can be fitted with a low emission wood pellet stove. These stoves are more efficient than a fireplace alone and burn less fuel, saving home owners money. There are incentive options based on income for homeowners in New York to purchase these stoves. Furnaces Having your furnace serviced annually for oil burning furnaces and every 2
Extension Connection
November 2020
Accessed Sept 8, 2020. http://www.energy. gov/energy/energysaver/energ-saver.
