Almost half a home’s energy consumption is due to heating and cooling.
– Turn down the thermostat in cold weather and keep it higher in warm weather. Each degree below 20°C (68°F) during colder weather saves 3%-5% more heating energy, while keeping your thermostat at 26°C (78°F) in warmer weather will save you energy and money. A programmable thermostat will make these temperature changes for you automatically.
– Clean your furnace’s air filter monthly during heavy usage.
– Consider a new furnace. Today’s furnaces are about 25% more efficient than they were in the 1980s. (And don’t forget to check out furnaces carrying the Energy Star label.)
– To keep your cool in warmer weather, shade your east and west windows and delay heat-generating activities such as dishwashing until evening.
– Use ceiling fans instead of air conditioners. Light clothing in summer is typically comfortable between 22°C and 26°C (72°F and 78°F). But moving air feels cooler, so a slow-moving fan easily can extend the comfort range to 28°C (82°F), according to “Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings” by Alex Wilson.