Weatherproofing
Using natural gas wisely can help you control your monthly bill. Here are some tips that can help you save on your gas bill.
- Seal air leaks around doors, windows, and ducts. Up to 36% of the air leaks in your home will be found in these areas.
- Close closet and cabinet doors on outside walls.
- Close the damper on your fireplace when not in use.
Lower your usage
- Lower the temperature setting on your water heater. In an average home, it should be set to 120 degrees.
- Set thermostats between 65 and 70 degrees during the winter, and at 58 degrees when away from home more than a few hours.
- Install a programmable thermostat. These electronic thermostats can automatically lower the temperature while you're at work and at night when you're sleeping.
- Run washing machines and dryers with a full load.
- Open draperies and blinds on sunny winter days to let the sun's warmth in. Close them at night to help retain the heat.
- Use kitchen and bath ventilating fans sparingly in cold weather. These fans can remove all the warm air in your house in an hour.
Long-term improvements
- Install storm doors and insulated windows.
- Replace aging and outdated appliances with more energy efficient models.
- Check the insulation in your attic and basement and add more if necessary.
- Conduct a home energy audit to determine specific conservation needs. Visit the US Department of Energy's do-it-yourself guide to learn how.
Helpful energy links
- The US Department of Energy
- Energy Information Association, a resource for price forecasting of all forms of home energy.
- The Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy conservation services to low-income Americans.
- The Alliance to Save Energy