Energy-smart consumers
buy natural gas appliances. And the best way to get the most out of every
energy dollar is to have a qualified professional periodically make sure
your appliances work at peak performance. Saving energy means saving money.
Here are some tips that will help you do both:
Space Heating – The single largest user of natural gas in the
home is the furnace. A well-maintained furnace will work more efficiently
and last longer. And when it’s time to buy a new furnace, an expert
can advise you on the best solution for your home-heating needs.
Tips Professional tune-up – A periodic
furnace inspection by a heating professional will ensure safe, efficient
operation.
Change the filter – Changing
the furnace filter regularly will help keep clean air flowing throughout
your home. If the filter becomes dirty
or clogged, it will restrict airflow
and cause the furnace to stay on longer – using more fuel. Note: If
you have a central air conditioner,
your filter may need to be changed more
frequently because it’s working during the summer too.
Keep vents and registers unobstructed
– Move drapes, rugs and furniture away from heat registers and return-air
vents. Free-flowing
air through the furnace provides quick comfort for less
money.
Install a programmable thermostat –
You won’t have to remember to turn the furnace down when you go to
sleep or leave for work.
Consistent temperature control will help reduce
your fuel usage and lower your energy costs.
Water Heaters – This is the second-largest
energy user in the home. Even though natural gas water heating is economical,
there are ways to stretch your energy dollar.
Tips Lower the temperature – Reduce
the temperature setting on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or
turn the dial from high to
medium. Turn the dial to low if you are going
to be gone for a few days or more.
Reduce hot water usage – Take
showers instead of baths to reduce hot water use. Fix leaky faucets and
run clothes- and dishwashers
with a full load. Install water-flow restrictors
in showerheads and faucets. Restrictors can cut hot-water use without affecting
comfort.
Insulate the water heater and hot-water pipes
– Install a water-heater blanket and hot-water-pipe insulation.
Follow the
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Look for an ENERGY STAR water heater –
When replacing a water heater, the best way to assure efficiency is to purchase
ENERGY
STAR qualified models.
Clothes Dryers – Dry clothes faster
and for less money with natural gas. These natural gas dryer tips can help
save you money and leave “nothing out to dry.”
Tips Dry full loads – You’ll
use less energy per clothing item. And when one load is done, follow up
with another load to benefit from the
residual heat.
Clean the lint screen between each load
– A clean screen allows for quick drying cycle.
Keep the exhaust vent clear of lint and debris
– All natural gas dryers must vent to the outside.
General Tips – There are a number
of ways to cut your energy costs by making your home more energy efficient.
Windows are a major source of heat loss. Consider installing storm or thermal
windows. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be
fastened over windows to retain heat.
Set the thermostat between 65 and 70 degrees during the winter, and 58 degrees
when away from the house for more than a few hours. Before sleeping, lower
the thermostat and add an extra blanket for warmth. Bear in mind that warmer
temperatures are recommended for homes with ill or elderly people or infants.
Keep heat registers and air-return vents unobstructed. Your furnace must
be able to circulate air freely to work efficiently. Arrange your furniture
with heating economy in mind.
Heat rises so use registers to direct warm air–flow across the floor.
Ceiling fans can also help circulate warm air into the living area.
Use drapes, shutters, awnings, shade trees, glass with reflective film and/or
solar screens to keep your house cooler in the summer. Let sunlight in during
the winter to help warm your house.
When buying new appliances, compare energy-efficiency ratings and annual
operating costs. A slightly higher initial cost for a high-efficiency appliance
could be paid back quickly through energy savings and lower utility bills.
Eliminate air leaks in your home with caulking, sealants or weather stripping.
Look for leaks around windows, doors, plumbing, ducts, and electrical outlets.
Close vents and doors in unused rooms and close dampers on unused fireplaces.
Check to see if the attic and walls have the recommended levels of insulation.
Click here for a energy audit to determine specific ways
to improve the efficiency of your home.
