Winter Energy Saving Tips

> Change or clean your furnace filter once a month during the heating season. As a reminder, check your filter when you get your electric bill. Dirty filters dramatically restrict your heating system airflow. Clean filters help you get the most from your heating dollar.

> Make sure that all of your registers are open and clean. Closed registers restrict airflow. Closing your registers will not reduce your heating costs. Closed registers can create cold spots in the home, confuse your thermostat and possibly cause damage to your furnace. Use a vacuum cleaner to keep registers and return grilles clean. Also check to make sure that registers are not covered or blocked by furniture or other items.

> Identify and seal air leaks. Winter is the ideal time to track down air leaks because you can easily feel cold drafts. Use caulk, foam products and weather stripping to keep the cold air out.

> Check exterior doors, including doors that lead to a garage, to make sure that they closed tightly and that the weather-stripping is in good condition. Windows are often thought of as the primary source of air leaks, but the most significant air leaks are often found in basements, crawl spaces and attics.

> Take advantage of the heat created by sunlight. Open drapes and blinds during the day, then close them at night to reduce the chill that you may feel from cold windows.

> Experiment with thermostat settings to see if you would be comfortable at a lower setting. Reduce the setting when you are asleep or away from the house. Programmable thermostats can do this for you automatically. If you have a heat pump, make sure to buy a "smart recovery" programmable thermostat.

> Use space heaters sparingly. Space heaters are meant for short-term use. Extended use of space heaters can be costly. A 1,500-watt unit, running 24 hours-a-day, can cost as much as $113 a month to operate.

> If you have a fireplace, make sure that the damper is closed when you are not using it. Leaving the damper open is similar to leaving a window open.

> Think long term. If you haven't already, considering signing up for an energy audit from Boone REMC. Energy audits can help you analyze your energy use and prioritize home improvements that can improve your home's energy efficiency.