Heating Tips

Manage Daily Use

• Turn down thermostats at night no more than five degrees.
• Close down rooms not in use: shut the door to the room and close radiator vents.
• Make sure that drapes, furniture, or carpets do not block heat vents or radiators.
• Keep the chimney flue closed when not in use.
• Limit the use of kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.

Reduce Hot Water Use

• Avoid hand-washing dishes under running water. Use the automatic dishwasher or fill the sink.
• Operate the washing machine with a full load and use warm or cold water.
• Reduce hot water consumption in kitchen and bathroom.
• Turn down the thermostat on your water heater.
• Use low-flow faucets and shower heads.
• Repair leaky faucets.

Care for your Heating System

• Install an energy-efficient furnace.
• Insulate your water heater.
• Install energy-efficient heater (oil-fired heaters work fastest).
• Consider programmable thermostats.

Weatherproof Your Home

• Clean and seal the duct system annually; airtight ducts make all the difference.
• Good insulation means thermal high performance, protection against air filtration, and moisture control.
• Insulate attics, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawl spaces with high R-value insulation material.
• Annually caulk, seal, and weatherstrip doors and windows.
• Ensure that storm doors and windows have a good tight fit.