Has there been a significant hot or cold spell?
Hot summer and cold winter days mean your heating and cooling system has to
work harder to keep your home comfortable. Prepare ahead by improving the insulation
in your home and preventing air leaks.
Have you added to your home? A new room makes your heating and cooling system work harder and longer,
thus increasing your energy usage.
Have you been on vacation? Your bill will probably go down a little while you're away, then go
back to normal when you return and wash extra laundry, etc.
Are there more people in your house than usual? More people (especially a new baby) mean more showers or baths, more
laundry, and a general increase in electricity use for lights, television, warmer
rooms, etc.
Have you checked the filters in your heating
and cooling system lately? Clogged filters increase the energy necessary to operate your system.
Clean or replace your filter(s) monthly and keep your system operating at maximum
efficiency with an annual checkup by a qualified technician.
What are your thermostat settings? During the heating season, set your thermostat
back at night on gas, oil or propane systems. For heat pump systems, it's best to find a
comfortable setting and leave it there. During the cooling season, save
as much as 3% on your energy costs for every degree you raise the thermostat
setting. Use ceiling fans to help circulate cooled air.
