Ideas to Save Energy & Money in Cold Northern Ohio Weather

Winter is coming and Ohioans are looking for ways to save energy as heating bills begin to climb. There are simple steps anyone can take to stop energy waste.

1. Use a programmable thermostat, and program home heating based on your schedule. Have it set at a lower temperature at night when you are under the covers, and when you are at work.
2. Are there cheaper heating options? Own a wood lot or have access to inexpensive wood? If your in an area that produces corn - have you considered a corn furnace?
3. Caulk and foam all cracks and crevices to keep the heated air in and the cold air out.
4. Dress in warm layered clothing when indoors during cold weather.
5. Use storm windows or plastic film over windows to prevent heat loss.
6. Don't have storm doors? - Consider them. They are particularly effective on the side of the house that tends to get hit by the most wind.
7. Open blinds and curtains on the "sunny" side of the house during the day, and close all blinds and curtains at night.
8. Avoid planting evergreens on the sunny side of the house. They will block the sun hitting the house in the winter. Deciduous trees help cool the house in the summer but do not block the sun in the winter.
9. If you have older windows make sure all of the panes are in good condition and that glazing is complete.
10. Do you have enough insulation in your attic? Climb up and check. Add as needed.
11. Older home? Consider blown in insulation.
12. Close areas you do not or seldom use and reduce or eliminate your heat to those areas.
13. Check walls and floors that have pipes, wires and duct work passing through them - seal any space to prevent heat loss.
14. Going on a vacation? Turn off your hot water tank and reduce your heat.
15. Older hot water tank? Consider wrapping it with an insulation wrap. While you are at it wrap the hot water pipes coming from the hot water tank.
16. Get your furnace serviced.
17. Dust/vacuum vents, radiators and other heat units. Dust makes them less efficient.
18. Tape cracks and holes in your duct work.
19. Always check your filters and change them as needed.
20. Contact your heating company. Are special rate plans available? Budgets, billing contracts, lock-in price guarantees, etc.
21. Keep your fireplace damper closed when it is not in use. A glass screen or doors can help to reduce heat loss and drafts.
22. Replacing your system? Consider a high efficiency system.
23. Only use exhaust fans when actually needed.
24. When cooking put pots and pans on similar sized burners. Defrost meat prior to cooking. Plan meals to cook efficiently. Only preheat for the time needed and don't open your oven frequently during cooking.
25. Turn off lights, unplug electronics when not in use and use those electronics and appliances during the lower rate periods (check with your electric company).