Cooler temperatures, changing leaves and shorter days are signs that fall has arrived. They’re also a reminder that it’s time to prepare your home for the heating season.
A few simple steps now can help your home stay comfortable, improve energy efficiency and potentially lower your electric bills as temperatures drop.
Give your heating system a checkup
Before the first cold snap, make sure your heating system is ready to work efficiently. Replace or clean your HVAC filter regularly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your system work harder.
If your heating system hasn't been inspected recently, consider scheduling professional maintenance. A properly maintained system can operate more efficiently and help identify potential problems before they become costly repairs.
Seal the places where heat escapes
Small gaps and cracks around windows, doors and other openings can allow heated air to escape and cold air to enter.
Check weatherstripping around exterior doors and replace damaged or worn materials. Caulk gaps around window frames and other areas where you can feel drafts.
Don't forget less obvious areas, such as openings around plumbing, wiring and vents.
Let the sunshine help
Fall sunlight can provide useful natural heat. Open curtains and blinds on sunny days to allow sunlight to warm your home. As the sun goes down, close them to help keep heat inside.
If you have ceiling fans, change their direction to a clockwise rotation at a low speed. This can help circulate warm air that naturally rises toward the ceiling.
Adjust the thermostat
Your thermostat is one of the easiest places to look for energy savings.
When you're home and awake, set the temperature to the lowest comfortable setting during the heating season. Lowering the thermostat while you're sleeping or away can provide additional savings.
A programmable or smart thermostat can make temperature adjustments automatically based on your schedule.
Don't forget your water heater
Your water heater is another major energy user in your home. Check its temperature setting and make sure it isn't set higher than necessary.
Take shorter showers when possible, wash clothes with cold water when appropriate and run your dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.
If your water heater is located in an unconditioned space, insulating the hot-water pipes can also help reduce heat loss.
Look for energy-saving opportunities
Fall is a great time to take a closer look at your home's overall energy use. Owen Electric offers resources that can help members identify opportunities to improve efficiency and save energy.
Consider taking advantage of Owen Electric's home energy audit, which can help identify areas where your home may be losing energy. Members can also explore available energy-efficiency rebates and online energy resources.
Visit owenelectric.com to learn more about available programs, rebates and energy-saving tools.
A little preparation goes a long way
You don't have to make major changes to save energy. Replacing a filter, sealing a draft, adjusting your thermostat and taking a few minutes to evaluate your home's energy use can all make a difference.
As you enjoy everything fall has to offer, take some time to prepare your home for cooler weather. Your future self—and your electric bill—may thank you.