Operating Your System Efficiently
Insulation
1. Make sure your home is properly insulated. This is the single most important step in conserving energy. Thermal insulation should be specified in terms of thermal resistance (R-values). R-30 (10") is recommended for ceilings, R-11 (3.5") for exterior walls and floors over unheated areas. In colder climates, consider additional insulation.
2. Infiltration of humid outside air is your heating and air conditioning system's worst enemy - it could account for 15 to 30% of air conditioning energy requirements. Find the places where air can sneak into the home and plug them with caulking, weather-stripping or plastic. Also, weather-strip and caulk around all entrance doors and windows.
3. Cut heat transfer through your windows by 40 to 50% with double glazing (two panes of glass separated by a sealed air space) and low-e glass.
4. Use wood, or metal-frame storm windows even if single-glazed windows are high quality. The extra layer of glass and the layer of still air will cut heat transfer considerably.
5. Install storm doors at all entrances to your house.
6. Keep all windows and doors closed.
7. Remember that by increasing the glass area, you increase the amount of heat added in summer and lost in winter.
8. Make sure fireplaces have tight-fitting dampers, which can be closed when the fireplace is not in use.
9. Invest in a humidfier to conserve energy in winter. The air in your home won't be as dry, so you stay comfortable at a lower temperature setting.