As September is upon us, those 90-degree days are a thing of the past (hopefully). Before the frigid temperatures kick-in, we want to suggest several ways to increase energy and water efficiency to keep families safe and comfortable while shrinking that utilities bill.
Energy Efficiency
- Service the Furnace – Schedule a check-up before turning the furnace on for the first time this season and replace filters monthly or as needed.
- Find & Seal Leaks – Caulk and weather strip around doors and windows to eliminate air drafts that make it more expensive to heat a home.
- Close the Fireplace – An open damper makes an easy funnel for warm air inside to escape, close the damper for better heating efficiency while the fireplace is not in use.
- Reverse Ceiling Fans – For hot weather ceiling fans should turn counter-clockwise, but for cold weather reverse fans to a clockwise rotation. This simple change pushes the warm air down and redistributes heat throughout the room.
- Natural Heat – Open blinds or curtains on windows facing the sun for free heat during the day, close them at night to keep cool air outside.
- Set Your Thermostat – Drop the thermostat to a comfortable temperature to reduce excess heating. When asleep or out of the house, lower the thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees. A smart programmable thermostat can help automatically make those changes and can sync with a household’s schedule. Plus, we offer customers a $50 rebate on qualifying smart thermostats.
Water Efficiency
- Continue Water Wise Efforts – Support the wise use of water and reduce your number of watering days as the weather cools. Water lawns before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. now through Oct. 15.
- Fill Washers – Wash only full loads in the dishwasher and clothes washer to maximize water use.
- Keep Track of & Fix the Drips – One or two drops of water from a faucet may not seem like a lot, but they add up quickly.
Natural Gas Safety
- Call 811 to Avoid Calling 911 – Before any fall projects that require digging, call 811 to have Springs Utilities mark underground electric, gas and water lines. It’s free and it’s the law.
- Check Exterior Appliance Vents – Critters, snow and ice can all be problematic by blocking air flow from appliances to vents outside the home. Check vents frequently to avoid furnace or other appliance issues.
- Keep an Eye on Pilot Lights – If the water heater pilot light goes out, get it inspected immediately. Appliances not working properly are a leading cause for carbon monoxide issues.
Wastewater Quality
- Can the Grease – Fall means a lot of good food, but never put cooking grease down the drain. Grease can build up in pipes and cause a wastewater backup. Dispose of grease by wiping off surfaces with paper towels or pouring liquid grease into a can to be thrown in the trash can.
By preparing your home during our beautiful fall weather, it will create a safe and efficient space for the upcoming winter season.
