From October through March, the average Nebraska home consumes more than one-third of its annual energy requirements to keep warm and cozy. It is no wonder heating is the largest energy expenditure most people have. Here are a few ways to keep more energy dollars in your pocket this year:
- Evaluate your insulation. Since it is seldom seen, most people do not consider whether their home is adequately insulated.
- Seal air leaks. While old windows are often characterized as energy losers, it is usually the air leaks around and through them that cause the most significant energy losses.
- Tune up your heating system. Have a certified HVAC specialist perform a tune-up to ensure all of the heating system’s parts are in good working order.
- Use space heaters wisely. Space heaters can consume a lot of energy, especially if used continuously.
- Manage the fireplace. If a fire isn’t burning in the fireplace, keep the fireplace damper closed.
- Install a smart thermostat. Set it up to adjust temperatures to 70°F or lower when you’re home and to automatically lower the set point to 65°F or lower during bedtime hours or while no one is home.
source: Nebraska Public Power District
