Grab a cup of your favorite pumpkin spiced, because the Autumn season is officially here! For a lot of people, this is a great time of the year, especially since they get to give their air conditioning a break as they enjoy the milder days and cooler nights. Fall is also a great time to get your home ready to be more energy efficient.

This season brings with it a new set of tasks, from raking leaves to inspecting your heating system and winterizing your outdoor plumbing. It is also the time when most of us utilize our furnaces. So, if you are looking for fall energy efficient tips as this season rolls around, read on.

Insulating and sealing

• Identify and seal air leaks throughout your house. By now, you are aware of where your home’s most drafty areas are, however, know that hidden drafts can also affect – and hurt – your home’s energy efficiency.
• Check out your home’s weather stripping; replace it if needed. Rubber gaskets are good for blocking drafts on your windows and doors, but only if they are in good condition. If they are damaged, dry, or cracked, now’s a good time to replace them.
• If your existing attic insulation is insufficient, be sure to add or replace them. Attic insulation serves as one of the most important thermal barriers in your house.
• Consider putting foam gaskets behind outlet covers and light switches, most especially if they feel drafty.

Saving on hot water

• If your water heater is situated in an attic, garage or basement, be sure to wrap it in an insulating jacket.
• Avoid setting your water temperature higher than 40 °. If you are going on a vacation, it is safe to set your water heater on vacation mode or to turn your thermostat down.
• If you are planning on a home renovation, consider putting your water heater in a strategic area. The closer the unit is to the bathrooms and kitchens, the shorter the distance the hot water will travel, hence, minimizing heat loss.

Home upgrades to consider

• Install a smart or programmable thermostat. This way, you can be more energy efficient by automating lower home temperatures while everyone is at school or work.
• If you are thinking about replacing your furnace, plan to purchase a high-efficiency unit. It might be costly, but it will help you save more in the long run because of its lower operating costs.
• If you have single-pane or decades-old windows, consider upgrading them. Gas-filled, multi-pane windows can spell a world of difference in both comfort and savings.

By observing these fall energy efficient tips, you are making sure that you are comfortable this season while saving money.

Sources:

“Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips,” US Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/fall-and-winter-energy-saving-tips
“Energy Saver 101 Infographic: Home Heating,” US Department of Energy, http://www.energy.gov/articles/energy-saver-101-infographic-home-heating