Home Weatherization Saves Energy
Many Weatherization Measures Are Simple & Low Cost
Rapid City, S.D. – Air leaks resulting from a home not adequately weatherized are responsible for the greatest loss of a home's heated or cooled inside air, according Chuck Loomis, vice president, operations for Black Hills Power.
"Energy consumption can be reduced through proper home weatherization," Loomis said. "And helping customers use energy wisely is a priority for Black Hills Power. Many measures are simple to do, and most homes can be weatherized for approximately $100."
Black Hills Power's weatherization program assists selected customers who are unable to weatherize their own homes and also shares information about how customers can make their homes more energy efficient. Here are several no- or low-cost weatherization measures homeowners can undertake to reduce their energy use this winter season. Additional energy-saving tips are available at http://www.blackhillspower.com/tips.htm.
Dial down and layer up.- Turn down your thermostat to 68 degrees* or lower, or install a programmable thermostat. Depending on what you set your thermostat at and for how long, you could save 8 percent of your home's heating energy consumption during the heating season.
*You may need to keep the thermostat set higher than 68 degrees for health reasons if a baby or elderly person is in the house.
- Have your heating system serviced regularly, so it runs properly and efficiently.
- Seal ducts where there may be air leaks.
- Change or clean furnace filters every month.
- Put plastic on windows and caulk and seal air leaks around attic doors.
- Install foam gaskets behind outlet covers and switchplates. Foam gaskets prevent air from leaking through wall outlets. (Only install foam gaskets if you know how to do so safely. Otherwise, ask a qualified electrician for assistance.)
- Set the water heater temperature as low as possible, but follow manufacturer recommendations for specific appliances.
- Insulate water heaters that are 10 years old and older, and hot water pipes.
Reduce hot water use.
- Install low-flow (two-gallons-per-minute or less) showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Take showers not baths.
- Repair leaking faucets and water lines.
- Wash full loads of laundry and use cold water.
- Wash full loads of dishes. Select the energy-saver cycle, or simply open the dishwasher door once the cycle is complete to let the dishes air dry.
- Open shades and curtains to allow sunlight to warm the inside of your home. Close them at night to help keep warm air in your home.
Clear space.
- Clean air registers, baseboard heaters and radiators. Make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting, drapes or other items.
Fireplaces
- Close your damper when the fireplace is not in use.
Minimize exhaust.
- Turn off exhaust fans within 20 minutes after cooking or showering.
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans appropriately, as they blow warm air out of your house.
- Take advantage of moisture from cooking and bathing, which helps humidify the house and make it more comfortable.
Get the whole family involved.
- Have a house meeting to discuss the various ways you can save energy.
- Remind each other of the recommended heating temperatures.
- Turn off lights and electronics when they aren't needed.
- Review your heating bills together and see how much you've saved by comparing last year's consumption to this year's.
About Black Hills Power
Black Hills Power has been delivering energy for more than 125 years. The electric utility serves 69,000 customers in 25 communities in western South Dakota, northeastern Wyoming and southeastern Montana. More information is available at www.blackhillspower.com.
Information provided by Black Hills Power
October 2009