NEWS CENTER

News

1/6/2010

· Run ceiling paddle fans on low, blowing up in winter.

· Change HVAC filters monthly.

· When installing new air filters, make sure they are facing in the correct direction. (Look for arrow on side of filter.)

· When heating, keep windows locked.

· Insulate electric wall plugs and wall switches with foam pads.

· Caulk along baseboards with a clear sealant.

· Close fireplace dampers when not burning a fire.

· Caulk around plumbing penetrations that come through walls beneath bathroom and kitchen sinks.

· Caulk electrical wire penetrations at the tops of the interior walls.

· Close shades and drapes at night to keep heat in during the winter.

· Make sure drapes and shades are open during the day to catch free heat from the sun in the winter.

· Ensure attic access door closes tightly.

· Insulate attic access door.

· Make sure insulation in your attic does not block soffit vents.

· Ensure return air grilles are not blocked by furniture or bookcases.

· Ensure windows and doors are properly weather-stripped.

· Make sure outside soffit vents are not blocked.

· Do not use roof-top power ventilators for attic exhaust as they may evacuate conditioned air from your home.

· When using the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening damper in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly.

· Caulk around basement windows.

· In a basement, seal the sill and band joist with durable caulking or foam sealant.

· Ensure floor registers are not blocked with rugs, drapes or furniture.

· Outside your home, caulk around all penetrations including telephone, electrical, cable, gas, water spigots, dryer vents, etc.

· Caulk around storm windows.

· Use heavy-duty, clear sheets of plastic on the inside of window to reduce the amount of cold air entering your home.

· Verify your supply air duct “boots” (behind supply air registers) are caulked to your ceiling or wall sheetrock or flooring.

· Verify all outdoor doors (including storm doors) close and seal tightly.

· In two-story homes serviced by one HVAC system, a paddle fan at the top of the stairs can push down hot, second-floor air.

· Keep your garage door down. A warmer garage in the winter will save energy.

· Use kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans wisely; in just ONE hour, these fans can pull out a house full of warmed air.

· Install 15 minute, spring-wound timers on bathroom ventilator fans.