Stay warm and comfortable this winter

It's important to manage your utility bills while keeping your home warm and comfortable during the winter. Here are some easy steps that you can take to save both energy and money.

Close storm windows

Make sure storm windows are closed completely so no air leaks in or out.

Maintain or replace your heating system

Your furnace or boiler needs regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently. Schedule annual checkups with a qualified contractor and replace furnace filters according to manufacturer's instructions. Also, make sure all supply and return registers are clear of obstructions.

Close the chimney damper

If your home has a fireplace, it's important to close the damper when not in use. This prevents cold air from entering your house through the chimney.

Seal air leaks

Cracks, gaps, and holes can let warm air out of your home. By sealing these leaks, you can maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home and control your heating costs.

Add insulation

In winter, a lack of insulation makes walls cold and forces the furnace to work harder. Adding insulation in the attic is one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to keep heat inside your home.

Change the direction of your ceiling fan

Many ceiling fans have a button on the base that changes the direction of the blades. In winter, set the blades to rotate clockwise to produce a gentle updraft, which moves warm air from the ceiling and distributes it evenly throughout the room.

Deck the halls with LED holiday lights

Light-emitting diode (LED) holiday lights use up to 90 percent less electricity than standard bulbs, last up to 200,000 hours, produce almost no heat, and are nearly impossible to break.