Yes, you can avoid getting the chills from your energy bills by giving your home a cold-weather button up. It could mean big savings and increased comfort for you anytime of year.

For example, experts say by just reducing the air leaks in a home in colder weather, it's possible to save as much as 10 percent on energy bills. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

First, control costs by controlling temperature.

• Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and high as is comfortable in the summer.

Next, find and fix the leaks.

There are a number of places that can be the source of an air leak. Homeowners are encouraged to pay particular attention to doors, windows and places where plumbing, ducting or electrical wiring penetrate exterior walls, floors, ceilings and soffits over cabinets.

To test your home for leaks, hold a lit incense stick next to a suspected source of an air leak. This is best done on a windy day.

If the smoke travels horizontally, you have found a leak that may need caulking, sealing or weather-stripping.

Remember not to let energy go out the window.

While windows can add to a home's style and comfort, they can also be the source of a lot of wasted energy. The experts at the Department of Energy (DOE) suggest:

• Close your curtains and shades at night; open them during the day. Nonsouthern-facing window treatments in unused areas can be left closed.

• Tape clear plastic sheeting inside of a window frame if there are drafts.

• Install tight-fitting insulating window shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.

• For long-term savings, install storm windows over single-pane windows or replace them with Energy Star® double-pane windows with low-e coating.

Insulate your home against high energy bills.

Insulating a home can help reduce energy costs year-round.

• Start by insulating the hot-water heater and hot-water pipes. It's best to follow the insulation manufacturer's instructions or get professional help.

• Check the insulation in the attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors and crawl space to see if it meets recommended levels for your region.

By: Stacey Moore

Article Source: http://www.energyefficienthomearticles.com

To find out how much insulation you need in your home, go to this DOE Web site , www.ornl.gov/~roofs/Zip/ ZipHome.html. These and many other energy-saving tips can be found at www.energysavers.gov or by calling (877) 337-3463. For more information about energy efficiency and renewable energy, visit www.eere.energy.gov. Let the sunshine in-During heating season, keep the drapes and shades open on south-facing windows during the day. Article Source: www.articledashboard.com

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