Staying Energy Efficient Even in Cold Weather

Contact: Renee Whitener, Director of Public Relations, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation, (828) 758-2383, Ext. 3213; or E-mail: Renee Whitener

Lenoir, North Carolina (January 15, 2009) – With weather forecasters are predicting the coldest weather in 15 years for this region, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation knows members are using more heat to keep warm. To help your home stay comfortable and energy efficient, here are a few tips from your local electric cooperative:

Just a few degrees in temperature levels make a difference in the amount of energy used. The industry average says that for every degree you can set—and leave—back your thermostat, you can save from one to three percent on heating costs. Consider purchasing a programmable thermostat to help control temperatures and save energy.
Keep your blinds or curtains open during the day to capture the sun's energy and close them at night or on cloudy days to help retain the heat.
Let the sun heat your home even more by trimming or removing evergreen trees that are blocking sun from your home unless they’re significantly helpful in reducing summer cooling costs.
If a room isn’t used, don’t heat it unnecessarily. Close the door to the room and keep blinds or curtains drawn.
Be sure all windows and doors close properly.
Change your furnace filter according to your manufacturer’s guidelines. Dust and dirt can quickly clog vital parts, making your unit work harder and use more energy.
Be sure draperies, furniture and other items aren’t blocking the flow of air from registers. If needed, inexpensive plastic defectors can help direct air under tables and chairs.

There are many steps you can take before cold weather to be sure your home is energy efficient. These include:

Making sure insulation is adequate. Insulation uses R-values, which refers to the resistance of heat to transfer through insulation. The higher the “R” value, the more efficient the house will be. Check with a local contractor or insulation specialist to determine adequate insulation levels for your home.
Caulk around doors, windows, wiring and plumbing to seal leaks, reduce heat loss and save energy.
Heating systems should be checked at least annually by a qualified heating and air conditioning contractor to ensure the best performance and efficiency.
Make sure your duct system isn’t leaking. Check ducts that carry air to different areas of your home, and close any leaks at joints using duct tape.
If you have a fireplace that isn’t in use, close the flue damper to be sure warm air doesn’t escape through this route.

Finally, to feel more comfortable in cold weather wear layers of clothes and shirts with closed collars or turtlenecks. Also, use more blankets or an electric blanket on your bed to help stay warm.