Energy efficiency tips

Linda Cicoira photo. 

By Linda Cicoira

The shortest day and longest night has occurred for the Eastern Shore as the Earth’s North Pole tilts farthest from the Sun, officially starting winter.

If you are a procrastinator, like me, it’s time for a reminder. Give your home a quick once-over to ensure it is energy efficient and as warm as possible.

According to the local electric cooperative, “a brief look around the outside of your home can reveal areas where small repairs could lead to big savings.” Sealing cracks around windows with caulk, closing foundation vents, and adding weatherstripping to exterior doors are simple ways to keep warm air in and your utility bills down.

Consider reviewing your thermostat settings and inspecting for air leaks under baseboards or around fireplace dampers. Minor gaps can be filled with caulk, while larger openings may need expanding foam insulation to properly seal them.

Get your heating system serviced annually and replace filters every month to keep it running smoothly. It’s a good idea to remove lint from your dryer vent whenever you use the appliance. Lint buildup can reduce efficiency and pose a fire risk.

While electric space heaters are a common solution for added warmth, ANEC says they can be costly to operate. Running a single 1,500-watt heater for eight hours a day could tack an extra $50 to your monthly electric bill.

Beyond the operating expense, space heaters can also be a fire hazard. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, these devices are linked to roughly 65 fatalities and 150 injuries annually.

For safety, plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet and never use extension cords, put the heater at least three feet away from flammable materials, like curtains or furniture, never leave it unattended or running while you are sleeping or away from home, and choose a unit that includes Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection for bathrooms and other damp areas.

For decorative lights and holiday inflatable displays, use a timer and replace any damaged cords before use.

ANEC offers free home energy assessments to members. Their energy experts can pinpoint ways to reduce energy use and costs. Schedule your checkup today by calling 757-787-9750 or by visiting the “Contact Us” page at anec.com.