EnergyTips
Energy Savings Quick Tips
- Have you checked your attic insulation lately? A professional needs to take a look. Southern Pine recommends R-38 or better for attic insulation.
- Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. If the room is unoccupied, turn off the ceiling fan to save energy.
- Spring cleaning: Be sure and clean dust and lint from under refrigerators and freezers. A build up of dust and lint could damage compressors and make them less efficient.
- Check caulk and weather stripping around your windows and doors. Seal other air leakage points around wiring, plumbing, attic access and fireplace flues. Use caulk for small holes and expanding foam for larger areas.
- In the winter dress in layers—this will allow you to set your thermostat a few degrees lower and still be comfortable.
- Be sure to change your air conditioning filters every month. Keeping a clean filter is one of the most efficient ways to save money and help your air conditioner do its job. Clear away debris such as leaves, grass and plants that block airflow through the outdoor unit.
Anything that collects on the unit’s fins will block airflow and reduce its efficiency. Grass clippings thrown by the lawn mower are a common problem. Occasionally clean the outdoor unit by spraying it with a water hose.
- Most of the major contributors to residential energy bills are operated by thermostat. Your heating and cooling system, water heater, refrigerator, and freezer all run as necessary to satisfy a thermostat unless you turn them off.
Recommended thermostat setting are 68° F or lower for heating and 78° F or higher for cooling. Each degree higher that 68° F can increase heating costs by 5-7%, and each degree below 78° F can increase cooling costs by 5-7% or more.
- On warm days, be sure drapes or shades are closed on sunny sides of your home to block the heat from the sun.
