Discover how to save on your bills

Cold weather tips

•  If you have a furnace, make sure to clean and service it once a year.
•   44% of your home energy use is from heating and cooling your home. Regular tune-ups can help reduce your bills. Don't forget your water heater, which can account for almost 15% of your energy use!
•  Lowering your thermostat 3-4 degrees can make a big difference in your heating costs. Try installing a programmable thermostat to change the temperature when you don't need it on at full blast.
•  Protect against drafts. Make sure your windows are caulked on three sides, with weather stripping around windows and doors.
•  10-25% of heating costs is due to heat loss from windows. Invest in storm windows for much more efficient protection.
•  Insulate your home, including ceilings, walls, and floors. Don't forget about the roof. Heat rises, so don't let it escape your house!
•  Tankless water heaters can help you save money by heating water only when you need it. They cost more up-front, but they'll pay for themselves soon enough!

Hot weather tips

• Turn off unnecessary lights. Light bulbs generate heat, especially incandescent bulbs. Compact fluorescent bulbs will keep you cool while still lighting your home.
•  Shut doors to unused rooms to lessen your cooling needs.
•  Make sure your furniture and decorations don't block your air flow.
•  Wear thin, loosely fitting clothes to help keep room temperatures cool.
•  The sun will heat your house, so close blinds or shades during the hottest part of the day, and apply sun control on south-facing windows.
•  Use fans. Even mild air movement can make you feel 3-4 degrees cooler!
•  Consider using natural ventilation on mild days and turn the A/C off.
•  Try to avoid using your oven. Use a microwave or grill outside instead!
•  If you have a second refrigerator or freezer in an uninsulated garage, move it to an insulated basement or spare room, or plug it in only when you need it.
•  Save chores that produce heat and moisture in the early morning or evening, including cooking, cleaning, ironing, and laundry. Try air-drying your dishes instead of running the dishwasher.
•  Avoid unnecessary trips in and out. Heat and humidity come in every time you open the door.