Global Warming Challenge #5
Home Heating

Most of us know that it is important to reduce the energy we use heating our homes. And most of us try to do so. But often it is difficult and we don’t do as much as we can. This month’s challenge is to examine the roadblocks and see if we can do even more.

Action:
Carefully study the chart below. Honestly evaluate which measures you do fully and which you don’t. If there are some for which you take an ‘easy way out’, try the energy saving solutions. See our webpage for more details and helpful hints.
Alternative Action:
If you already use compact fluorescents as much as possible, give least 5 compact fluorescent bulbs to a friend or relative.
NOTE: Some of the biggest savings involve things that are expensive; those are not included in our chart. But if your budget allows (remember you’ll save $$ on heating), consider more insulation, energy-saving windows, more efficient heater etc. etc.
Energy-Saving Measure Possible Roadblocks Easy Ways Out Energy-Saving Solutions
Set thermostat
to 68 or less
in the daytime 		You feel cold
or uncomfortable 		Increase temperature
"a little".
Have a blanket
on the sofa 		Blankets are good but when
you are sitting or lying down
  • Layer clothing
  • Wear warm socks
  • Dedicate 1 or 2 comfy jackets
    for use at home
  It is colder in some rooms
than other. 		Raise thermostat
"a little"
when you are in
a colder room.
  • Put fans near vents or
    at doorway of warmer areas
  • Run heater fan (even when
    heater is not on) IF your
    air intake is in a warmer area
  • Reduce heat loss
    in colder rooms (see below)
Set thermostat
to 63 or less
at night 		You feel cold
or uncomfortable 		Keep temperature
almost the same
at night as in daytime
  • Wear warmer nightclothes (sweatshirts are great) and socks.
  • Use more blankets
Reduce heat loss
through doors
and windows. 		Inertia Do little or nothing
  • Add weather stripping
  • Use door-bottom draft
    guards (some are 2-sided
    or fasten to door)
  • Get better window coverings
    (especially on older/poorer
    windows). Or add a 2nd layer!
  • REMEMBER: cost is offset by the
    $$ you save on heating!
Close vents
in unused rooms 		Don't think
it helps. 		Don't do it
  • Closing vents DOES help
    - heats less space, increases
    air flow to other rooms
  • But do NOT close off too many
    vents...about 20% of your vents
    should be fine
Turn thermostat OFF
when you are out
2 hours or more 		It's too cold
when you get home 		Do nothing or
just lower temperature
a degree or two
  • Turn on thermostat
    as soon as you get home.
  • Keep your coat on a while
  • Have a nice hot beverage
Maintain your
heating system 		Didn't think of it Do minimum
  • Keep filters clean
    (resuable/washable ones are available)
  • Have old vents cleaned
Use the sun Didn't think of it! Do nothing
  • If you have any windows that
    get sun several hours a day, open
    blinds/curtains during sunlight
    hours (and close promptly
    when sun is gone!).
Try new approaches You're skeptical You see advice
but don't follow it.
  • Search the web (or publications)
    for new ideas and helpful products.
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