Conserve Heat Resources

Thirty-eight percent of household energy costs can be attributed to the heating and cooling of your house, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  What can be done to lower the amount you spend on heating your home?  Here are some suggestions offered by the EPA and the Family Information Network: 

Consider replacing heating and cooling units with more efficient systems.  Check out the website http:// energystar.gov to learn more about EnergyStar products that will not only be more energy-efficient, but will also help protect the environment.  Even though the initial cost may be more for this equipment, your heating and cooling bills may be reduced up to one-half. 

How will you know when it is time to replace your old system?  The rule of thumb for heating systems indicate that it is probably time for a change if your heat pump is more than 10 years old or your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.  With older units, heating bills will continue to increase, more frequent repairs will be needed, some rooms in the home may be too hot or too cold, your system can’t regulate the indoor humidity, the old system stirs up too much dust in the house, or perhaps you don’t have a programmable thermostat. 

A programmable thermostat may be your first option if you are looking to increase efficiency.  They are designed to automatically adjust the thermostat for times when you are at home, asleep or gone.  These thermostats will remember several different settings per day and will self-regulate according to the outside temperature.  They can save you up to $100 a year.

Even if you choose not to change your system, you can cut your heating costs by practicing some simple conservation techniques.  Have regular maintenance check-ups with a qualified technician.  On a monthly basis change the furnace or register filters or clean them.  This can lower the risk of damaged equipment, as well as decrease heating costs.  Keep registers and duct work clear of draperies, furniture and rugs.  If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, set the temperature to 68 degrees Fahrenheit or below while you are home, and turn it down lower at night and when you are away. 

Check electrical, gas or oil connections, motor voltage and current, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger.  Lubricate all moving parts to decrease friction.  Look for leaking air around ducts.  If seepage is found, use mastic, metal-backed tape or an aerosol sealant to repair the holes and separations.  Duct tape isn’t made to withstand the ensuing hot temperatures.  Insulate ducts so the air is kept at the correct temperature.  Making duct work airtight can save up to $140 annually.   

Another simple way to save on heating costs is to open curtains in the daytime to allow the sun to warm up rooms.  However, be sure to close them before the sun goes down to keep that heat from escaping.

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Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Keith L. Smith, Director, Ohio State University Extension.
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