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Home Efficiency: A Springtime Checklist For You
Finding yourself with some newfound time as we work our way through Alone Together April? Why not give yourself some home projects to tackle.
Here’s a checklist to help you get a handle on what needs to be done to keep your Hudson Valley home comfortable and running efficiently in the coming weeks.
Thermostat set for savings
If you’re using your heating system, set your thermostat at 68 degrees when people are home for the best balance of comfort and energy savings; lower the temperature when no one is home, or when people are sleeping to maximize savings. Once cooling season arrives, target a thermostat setting of 78 degrees, raising temperatures when people are home.
Proper Venting
Close vents in unused rooms to reduce energy use
Clear obstructions from vents to keep air moving
Check your HVAC filter once a month, changing or cleaning it as necessary
Sealed Doors
Keep doors closed between conditioned and unconditioned spaces; check and replace seals around interior doors to keep conditioned air from escaping
Check door sweeps to make sure they are blocking drafts and keeping conditioned air inside your home. If you don’t have doorsweeps, consider installing them
Sealed Windows
Check caulking on window frames to prevent conditioned air from escaping
Consider resetting the temperature of the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees (default settings are often 140 degrees) to get the best balance of comfort and energy savings; for every 10 degrees you lower the temperature, you’ll save 3-5 percent on your bill, says the DOE. Keep the temperature at 140 degrees if someone in your home suffers from immune deficiency
Test all alarms – smoke, CO, radon detectors, etc., replacing batteries if needed
Efficiency and safety of Fireplace or Wood Stove
Close the damper to prevent heat from entering through the chimney
Schedule a chimney inspection to prevent hazards related to creosote buildup
Need heating or cooling system service in the Hudson Valley? We can help. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and get your equipment back on top of its game.
Please note: At Bottini Fuel, your safety and comfort are always our priority. Please see our Covid-19 Service Update Page to learn more about how we are working to keep your family and our crews safe and your home comfort equipment working properly during this challenging time.