Bathroom fan fixtures can poke into the attic insulation and create a pathway for air leaks. Caulk around them from below with high-temperature flexible caulk.
Bathroom Fan Insulation
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HVAC
Clean Fires
To help reduce creosote build-up in your wood-burning chimney system, burn only well-seasoned hardwoods. If you don’t know how to build a hot, safe fire, ask your certified chimney sweep for tips on proper wood-burning techniques.
Humidifier Cleaning
Empty dehumidifiers daily and clean often. If possible, have the appliance drip directly into a drain. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Always disconnect the appliance before cleaning.
Fan Speed
Set the fan speed on high except in very humid weather. When it’s humid, set the fan speed on low. You’ll get better cooling, and slower air movement through the cooling equipment allows it to remove more moisture from the air, resulting in greater comfort.
Window Savings
If you replaced all the windows in your home with Energy Star qualified windows, you could cut your heating and cooling energy use by an average of 15%.
Spring Sweep
Now that the heating season is over, have a chimney sweep clean any fireplaces and flues.
Woodstove Glass
Dirty woodstove glass? Try dipping a dampened piece of newsprint in the fine white ashes after your fire has died. Whipe it onto the glass in circular motions – it works well if the glass isn’t terribly dirty to begin with.
Open Radiators
If your home has a boiler system, avoid covering radiators with screens or blocking them with furniture. It’s also a good idea to add a reflecting panel behind radiators – you can purchase one at a home center or make one yourself with a plywood panel and aluminum foil.
Tankless Coil Heaters
Tankless coil water heaters work well during colder months because the heating system is used regularly.
Register Cleaning
Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed. Make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.
