Cut Down on Heating Costs

Furnace
Maintaining your furnace is a key step in reducing your heating costs. Ensure that your furnace is operating efficiently, which will use less energy and cost less to operate. If your furnace is more than 20 years old, it is most likely not as efficient as newer models. A high-energy furnace is 90% more efficient and can reduce fuel costs by up to 30%.

Yearly maintenance checks on furnace, venting and cooling systems will help to ensure your system is operating efficiently. Below are some do-it-yourself tips
to keep your system working efficiently:

• Change your filter frequently , about every one or two months. Dirty filters can block the air flow, causing your system to run longer to heat or cool the house. Don't forget about the electronic air cleaner filters, which also need to be changed every one to two months. TIP: Using a furnace filter alarm can let you know when your filter needs to be
  changed.
• Insulate your furnace. This will help prevent heat loss, giving you more heat in your home and more money in your pocket.
• Keep space heaters/baseboards, radiators and hot air registers away from furniture, rugs and drapes to allow for free air movement.

Thermostats
Reduce your energy consumption by lowering the temperature on your thermostat to a few degrees while away during the day or when sleeping. Installing a programmable thermostat is an energy-efficient and cost-saving step, since you can program
when your furnace or air-conditioner will start up and turn off. EnergyStar qualified thermostats have four programmable temperature and time settings, and will save you about 10% on your power bills.

Exhaust Fans
To ensure efficient operation of your exhaust fan:

• Check that vent of your exhaust fan is directly outside and not in the attic.
• Clear any lint or other dust that gathers in the exhaust cover on a regular basis. If not cleaned, the lint will stop the exhaust cover from closing properly, which will allow the cold outside air from entering.
• Clean your kitchen fan filter regularly with soap and water.
• Install a timer switch for your bathroom's exhaust fan. A timer switch will allow the exhaust fan to remove moisture for a set amount of time, and will prevent the fan from being left on for too long.