Energy Efficiency Programs and Practices

Through utility companies, this statewide program offers financial incentives, programs, and services for residential and commercial customers to save energy, money, and the environment. Learn more about how you can reduce overall energy consumption, contribute to climate change solutions, and save money.

Cold temperatures bring an increased demand for heat as people strive to stay warm. Here are some simple things that you can do to reduce your consumption of fuel and still stay warm this winter.

• Lower your thermostat Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. For every degree you lower the thermostat, you can save 3% on your heating bill. Turn down your thermostat by 5-10 degrees at bedtime.
• Take showers instead of baths Bathing uses more hot water in most households – up to 25 gallons more. Keep your showers to 5 minutes in length and you will see cost savings this winter.
• Keep warm air inside Make sure your windows are properly closed and locked. Open your shades and curtains in the daytime to let in that natural solar heat (sunshine) and close them at night to keep residual warmth in your home.
• Seal holes and cracks around windows, doors, and walls You may be able to save 10% or more on your heating bill by caulking and weather-stripping these areas to prevent cold air from getting in. Close off vents or registers in rooms that are not in use and then close the door to those rooms so that colder air will not travel to parts of your home that are in use.
• Keep your garage door closed If your garage is attached to your home, you must be sure to keep the door closed so that warm air from your home does not escape and cold air from the garage doesn’t’ travel into your home.
• Make sure heating vents are not blocked Take a look around your home and move any furniture that is positioned in front of vents that supply or return air to the furnace. This will help your whole heating system run more efficiently.
• Increase insulation in your attic, crawl spaces, and basement Since heat rises, adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to conserve energy.
• Clean or change your furnace filter regularly Air must go through this filter in order to heat your home. If the filter is dirty, the furnace will have to work harder than it should. Dirty filters also increase the amount of dust that is pushed back into your home.