Homeowner Tips with F & G – How to Save Energy

Homeowner Tips with F & G – How to Save Energy

The holidays are approaching and typically, with the holidays means colder weather. This means it’s time to consider the many ways to conserve and save your energy usage and money as a homeowner during the winter time. Below, the F & G team has put together a list of 5 tips for you to follow this winter season to save your energy usage:

  • Tip #1 – Find and seal leaks: If your home has any type of cracks or gaps in the pipes, ceilings, windows, doorways, and unfinished spaces, cold air can leak into your house. Caulking and weather-stripping are two ways you can seal these gaps and keep the cold air from coming through.
  • Tip #2 – Enjoy the natural sunlight and heat: By opening curtains on the south-side of your house during the day, you can enjoy the natural heat caused by the sun. However, remember to close these curtains at night to preserve that heat and reduce any colder chill coming from the windows.
  • Tip #3 – Keep up with your heating systems: When heating systems aren’t maintained, they can begin to start working badly and unreliably which as a result, costs you more money and uses more energy throughout the house. Schedule an appointment with a professional and have your heating system checked for any repairs or replacements needed. Replace your air filter once a month and remember to clean wood and pellet-burning heaters frequently.
  • Tip #4 – Lower water heating costs and holiday lighting costs: When turning down the temperature of your water heater, you can save both energy and costs. Turning it down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit is one way to do so. In addition, holiday lighting can burn extra electricity. Using LED Christmas lights are one way to maintain that Christmas spirit, while also saving energy and costs.
  • Tip #5 – Reduce heat loss caused by the fireplace: By keeping the damper closed, it prevents warm air from going right up the chimney (which would be similar to keeping a window open during window). When using the fireplace, open a window or close all doors leading to the room and lower the thermostat temperature. Furthermore, if the fireplace is never used, seal the chimney flue. 

By following these tips, you are sure to conserve your energy and electricity, all while saving costs. Check back for our next 'Homeowner Tips with F & G' in December! We'll be covering all the ways to care for your pipes during the freezing weather.

 

- Fontenelle & Goodreau Insurance, LLC