Energy Saving the Easy Way

We are all looking for ways to cut down on our energy bills and save some money this fall. Actually, there are quite a few simple chores you can do to make your house more energy efficient and save you money on your utility bills.  I promise that you can perform almost all of these energy saving tips yourself, and you will very grateful for the added heat (and the lower bills) when winter really sets in. Here is a list from mass.gov:

Windows and Doors

Repair broken or cracked glass and putty older windows; check to see that windows close properly and window locks pull sashes together.

Make sure doors close properly; repair or replace non-working doorknobs, latches and striker plates.

Weatherstrip windows, doors and attic accesses; caulk the frames around windows and doors from the inside using a clear, pliable caulk.

Other Air Leaks

If you have a fireplace, be sure it is fitted with a tight sealing damper that is closed when the fireplace is not in use. If the fireplace is used infrequently, use a chimney block to eliminate heat loss.

Caulk foundation cracks and openings. Make sure kitchen and bathroom vent dampers close properly.

Lights and Hot Water

Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient fluorescent lights. Over its lifetime, a fluorescent bulb will save $30 - $50. Look for rebates from utilities to save you even more. Today's new compact fluorescent bulbs perform even better than the models of a few years ago.

Install low flow showerheads and faucet aerators to save energy and water.

Reduce your hot water heater temperature to 120°.

Repair leaking hot water faucets, tanks and pipes.

All of these tips are easy to do and they make sense, why waste money heating air that escapes outside? For more information, check out the Massachusetts State website.