SAHBA Home Hints
October 19, 2008
Staying Warm in the Winter Months
Just because Tucson doesn't get much snow doesn't mean it doesn't get cold. Here are some simple steps to help control heating bills while staying comfortable inside.
“During the colder months, set the thermostat between 66 and 68 degrees and at night, set it back 10 degrees. Doing this can save about seven to 10 percent in heating costs,” said Libby Howell of Southwest Gas.
“We recommend a qualified contractor inspect your natural gas furnace yearly to ensure it's operating safely and efficiently,” said Howell, a SAHBA member.
Southwest Gas' referral program provides customers with a list of licensed natural gas heating and plumbing contractors and appliance dealers to choose from.
Today's natural gas furnaces are significantly more energy efficient than those 20 years ago. Standard natural gas furnaces rate at about 80 AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), whereas high-efficient furnaces range up to about 96 AFUE.
Monthly, furnace filters should be cleaned or replaced because clogged filters waste energy.
About two percent of heat loss can occur through switch and outlet plugs on exterior walls. Install inexpensive switch plate gaskets between outlets and exterior walls. Also, caulk and weather strip spaces around doors and windows to prevent energy loss.
If using evaporative cooling, ensure the baffle is in place before starting the furnace. The more efficient the furnace is, the more warm air it will trap inside the home.
Howell also suggests limiting the use of exhaust fans and closing the fireplace damper when not in use.
“In one hour, exhaust fans in kitchens or bathrooms can pull out a house full of warm air,” Howell said.
Another suggestion is to take advantage of the sun's warmth: open shades, blinds and draperies in rooms that receive direct sunlight.
To reduce costs of water heating, the third largest energy user in the home, set the water heater on low and use an approved water-insulation blanket and insulate the water pipes at the top of the water heater.
Low-flow showerheads and faucets are another way to conserve hot water and energy.
Finally, if homeowners are on a fixed income, check out Southwest's Low-Income Energy Conservation Program. It can assist with money-saving home improvements to increase energy efficiency in the home.
Details: Southwest Gas at 889-1888 or swgas.com.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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