GreenWorks - Staying Warm This Winter

As the temperature starts to drop outside, our thoughts turn to keeping warm - and winter fuel bills. The N.H. Office of Energy and Planning already indicates significantly higher fuel costs this year compared to last year. Still, you don't have to live in an icebox! You can cut your energy bills, help the environment, and still stay warm by taking a few simple steps to maximize your home's energy efficiency.

On average, heating and cooling accounts for about 44 percent of annual home energy use. Making sure your heating system is working efficiently and reducing heat loss around your home can have a significant impact on your energy use - and lower your fuel bills! An energy efficient home can use half as much fuel as an inefficient home. So, first, have your service technician tune up your furnace. A well-maintained furnace will burn fuel more efficiently, requiring less fuel to provide the same amount of heat. This step alone can reduce your fuel costs by 10 to 20 percent! A well-maintained, efficient furnace also produces less air pollution, helping to protect air quality.

Second, inspect your home for ways to reduce drafts and improve the circulation of warm air, which will make your home feel warmer even at a lower temperature. Clean heating registers and make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes. Check the roof, walls, outlets and switches, floors, windows, and doors for air leaks by passing incense along the area to watch for blowing smoke. Where necessary, seal leaks with weather stripping, caulk or insulation.

Third, pay attention to the temperature at which your thermostat is set. By lowering your thermostat to 60°F when you are asleep or away, you can significantly reduce your fuel use. For every degree lower you set your thermostat, you will save about one percent on your heating bill. For guaranteed savings, upgrade to an automatic setback or programmable thermostat, which will automatically adjust the temperature for you.

Finally, look for ways to change your daily routine to conserve energy and purchase heat-saving energy-efficient products. On sunny days, take advantage of the free solar heat by opening blinds, shades and curtains, especially on southern facing windows. Close blinds and drapes at night to keep warm air inside. When you leave on vacation, turn down the water and home heating thermostats. When possible, close the door and turn down the heat on an unoccupied room. And, if you are shopping for new appliances, windows or doors, look for products with the ENERGY STAR label.

There are many other ways to reduce your energy use around the home, such as energy conserving landscaping, use of efficient lighting and appliances, and conserving hot water. There is also home weatherization assistance available for those that qualify. For more information on energy conservation and assistance, contact the N.H. Office of Energy and Planning Stay Warm website at 271-2155, or visit their website. You may also call the N.H. Department of Environmental Services at (603) 271-5552 or visit their web site.

To find out if you are eligible for various rebates and energy efficient services through your electric utility, visit www.nhsaves.com. If you use natural gas as your heating source, similar programs are available through your gas utility at 800-292-2032.