Energy-Efficient Tips for Spring — Straight From the Expert!

03/29/2024
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With the arrival of spring, now is a great time to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient in anticipation of warmer weather. Virginia Energy Senses Deputy Director Greg Weatherford offers the following tips for saving money on your energy bill this spring: 

  • Maintain your heating and air conditioning. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every month or two reduces your home energy consumption by up to 15%.
  • Adjust your thermostat. On warm days, raise your thermostat’s cooling temperature when you leave home to reduce energy costs. Enjoy additional savings by using fans in the rooms where you sleep, which allows you to set your thermostat higher without sacrificing comfort.  
  • Invest in a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat learns your behavior and can raise or lower the temperature depending on whether you’re at home. It also lets you control your home’s temperature from your smartphone. 
  • Check for air leaks. Sealing, caulking, or weatherstripping any openings around windows and doors will keep air from escaping and help maintain your desired temperature. Weatherstripping materials can cost as little as $7 per foot, and caulk may only cost a few dollars. Sealing leaks and cracks with these materials can save the average household 10%–20% on heating and cooling.  
  • Adjust your ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can make a room feel 4 degrees cooler, and you’ll save money by relying less on your air conditioning. Make sure fans are rotating counterclockwise on warm days so they circulate cooler air.  
  • Install window treatments. Adding coverings like blinds or shades will block the sun’s heat from entering your house — keeping your home cool and reducing your energy usage. 
  • Close vents in unused rooms. If there are rooms you spend little time in, close the air vents and shut the door. That way you don’t have to waste energy on air-conditioning rooms you don’t use much. 

To hear more tips from Greg, check out on his appearances on WFIR News Talk Radio and 102.5 WBTM’s Discussing Danville With Josh.