Sure, most of us Atlantans would love to keep the house a comfortable 75 degrees or higher all winter long so Georgia summer never really feels too far away, but let's face it—it's cheaper to don a sweater or two. Here are a few money-saving tips from Georgia Power to keep energy costs low at your house.
- Keep your thermostat at the lowest comfortable setting.
Georgia Power recommends 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Every degree above 68 can add three percent to the heating bill.
- Keep heating vents and registers clear.
Make sure they are not blocked by draperies or furniture. Vents should also be cleaned regularly with a vacuum or broom.
- Caulk, re-caulk or add weatherstripping around windows and doors.
This helps keep the cold out and the heat in. If caulking or weather stripping is cracked, remove it and reseal with new materials.
- Let the sun shine in.
On sunny days, open drapes or blinds to allow natural solar heat to warm the house.
- Change air filters.
Dirty filters can increase heating system operating costs. Change filters every month or so to help the unit run properly.
- Wrap water pipes.
This will reduce heat loss from hot water lines and help to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Dress warmly, even indoors.
This will allow a lower thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort.
- Make sure fireplace dampers fit tightly, and keep them closed when not using the fireplace.
Add a glass fireplace screen, if possible.
- Have your heating system professionally checked to make sure it's running properly.
This can prolong the life of the system, as well as reduce operating costs.
- Remove window air conditioning units during winter months.
