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Fall\u2019s coming. Soon enough, stores will switch their inventory to meet your needs.<\/p>\n
And who knows? With the COVID variants coming into play, you may find yourself at home much more than your employer currently thinks.<\/p>\n
If that\u2019s the case this fall and winter, that means more energy use.<\/p>\n
Even if that doesn\u2019t happen, you\u2019re still wise to save energy. So what\u2019re the top energy efficiency tips and projects you should think about this fall?<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s what to consider:<\/p>\n
1. Sealing Air Leaks<\/strong><\/p>\n We talk about it a lot on this blog. And that\u2019s for good reason. Your HVAC system uses the most energy in your home.<\/p>\n So, it only makes sense to keep as much of that conditioned air in your home as possible.<\/p>\n And your home\u2019s air envelope can change. Critters may find a way into your home, opening up more cracks.<\/p>\n Your home\u2019s foundation can settle slowly over time. Wood can twist and warp.<\/p>\n Plus, do you know about \u201cstack effect?\u201d<\/p>\n Most homeowners don\u2019t.<\/p>\n It\u2019s when hot air rises in your home because the indoor temperature is much warmer than the outdoor temperature.<\/p>\n This then causes that precious heater air to flow out of your home through your attic. And many homeowners don\u2019t counteract this effect with a sealed attic or attic door.<\/p>\n 2. Insulate Your Water Heater<\/strong><\/p>\n Now this one is easy. If you have a newer water heater, it\u2019s probably already insulated.<\/p>\n But, your older one probably isn\u2019t.<\/p>\n Fortunately, you don\u2019t need to be a DIY genius to do this project.<\/p>\n You can get a simple water heater blanket\/insulating kit from your local department store.<\/p>\n Such a kit costs around $20 and gives you a 7-16% annual savings on your hot water use!<\/p>\n 3. Give Your Fireplace a One Over <\/strong><\/p>\n Fireplaces are wonderful to enjoy with family and friends. But they\u2019re a mortal enemy of energy savings.<\/p>\n If you monitor yours, though, it actually won\u2019t cause that much harm to your energy efficiency.<\/p>\n For starters, keep the damper closed whenever you don\u2019t use your fireplace.<\/p>\n Also consider purchasing fireplace grates. These help you push cool air outside and keep warm air inside.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/powermepronto.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/MSH_DSC_4474.jpg\")
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