You turned the clocks back but did you switch the direction of your ceiling fans?
Did you set back your thermostats?
The EPA says you can save up to $150.00 per year but using a setback thermostat. If you don’t have an auto setback thermostat you can set it back manually when you leave for work and when you go to bed at night. Of course keep in mind if you crank up the electric blank you may very well off set the anticipated savings. You can also run your ceiling fans in reverse. This helps to mix the air when the thermostat is set back. Remember only use the ceiling fans in the rooms in use. this can lead to additional savings. Consider closing the doors to the rooms not being used. If you are using a fireplace or stove to heat your home this can be a big help in circulating the warm air. With a forced air furnace it may not be of any benefit. Reason being the furnace has a fan to circulate air. This is would not be true for hot water baseboard heating systems here again the ceiling fan can be expected to provide a benefit.
Still the best is to air seal the ceiling and add more insulation in the attic. The warm air leaks into the attic and right out the roof vents. In a home where the ceiling isn’t properly air sealed and there is an attic fan working by temperature or solar powered you can be adding to the heat lose.
Another place that is often overlooked is windows. It isn’t always a matter if the windows are insulated glass or not. It is a matter of if they are closed and locked. This can be very easily over looked. And the storm windows need to be closed, another easily overlooked way to keep the warm are from escaping. Don’t forget to let the sun shine during the winter months. If your fan is not Energy Star labeled consider replacing with an Energy Star model for additional savings. Quality Building & Remodeling can do complete energy saving evaluation of your home in the Pocono Mountain region of Pennsylvania and Northwest New Jersey. Give a call today to schedule a complete review of energy saving measures. 800-404-3995. Visit us at www.qualitydesignbuild.com you cna also find us on Angies list and Houz.com
Quality Building & Remodeling 