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Tips on Conserving Energy During the Winter

As you probably know, when the temperatures start falling, the gas prices start rising. Fortunately though, there are some simple steps you can take to conserve your gas usage and save money at the same time. Listed below are some easy and "generally" inexpensive tips to help in your conservation efforts:

• Lower your thermostat, especially at night. You can save 3% to 5% on your heating costs for each degree lowered.

• Set your water heater temperature at 120 degrees.

• Replace standard incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.

• Make sure your washer, dryer, and dishwashers are fully loaded before operating.

• Change or clean filters in heating and cooling units at least once a year or as recommended by the appliance manual.

• Make sure the dryer exhaust vent on the outside of the house is clear of debris.

• Install water saver fixtures on your shower and faucets.

• Use energy saving settings on your appliances.

• Install a programmable thermostat to better control the temperature in the house at different times of the day.

• Close vents in unused rooms.

• Inexpensive weather stripping can help repair gaps between exterior doors and jambs, which is the biggest source of heat loss in most homes.

• Closing drapes helps add insulation to drafty windows, but a better solution is installing plastic coverings during the winter.

• Make sure furniture, carpet, or excessive dust doesn't block active vents.

• Get your furnace and air conditioner serviced annually.

Hopefully, by taking some of the steps described above you will be able to help conserve this necessary energy source and at the same time enjoy your nice warm home as we battle another midwestern winter.