Do’s:
- Seal up any cracks along doors and windows.
- Look for areas where drafts or cold air is coming in and replace any worn weatherstripping.
- Draft guards and towels help at bottoms of doors and on windowsills.
- Rugs on wood and tile floors can also aid in keeping cold air out and warm air in.
- Open curtains during the day to let sunlight in, close them at night to hold heat in.
- Uncover blocked vents and ensure maximum air flow is observed for floor vents.
- Switch ceiling fans to clockwise mode to help push heat downward.
- Close garage door.
- Keep heat set at minimum of 64 degrees.
- Close fireplace flue.
- Plug space heaters directly into wall and not an extension cord.
- Have heating unit and/or chimney cleaned and inspected annually by a professional.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.
- Be prepared in case of power outage or fire. Have a plan.
- Replace HVAC filters monthly.
- Have a working fire extinguisher on hand.
- Use thermal curtains for doors and windows.
- Close internal doors where possible.
- Install programmable thermostat.
- Adjust water heater to lower temperature.
- Lower thermostat during day and overnight.
- Don’t use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
- Don’t use a generator inside your home.
- Don’t use your fireplace without having it recently cleaned and inspected.
- Don’t leave space heater on overnight or in unattended room.
- Don’t constantly change thermostat.
- Don’t plug everything into one power strip.
- Don’t DIY repairs unless you are a professional.