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I have seen water heaters and air handlers standing in sub-freezing temperatures with the overhead doors fully open all day. This usually means two internal house walls are exposed to the cold temperatures as well. Below is a photo of a foam board insulated garage door. (b) Lighting. If you have areas where lights are on for long time frames, such as kitchen, front porch, and security lights, I suggest replacing the bulbs as they die with florescent screw -in bulbs. They turn most of their energy into light instead of incandescent bulbs that turn 90% of their electricity into heat.

I have mentioned using a good brand of pleated return air filters in some previous chapters. An added benefit is the use of additional return air filter grilles. By spreading the filter task over a greater surface area, you will trap more dust, and the lower air speed through the return filters will aid in the capture and holding of smaller particles. If you have allergy concerns, I recommend that you use the premium filters. (b) Vacuum cleaners. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner that has multiple filters with a final HEPA filter.

Keep trees and shrub branches trimmed to prevent contact with the house or A/C condenser on windy days. Check the insulation on the refrigerant lines for tears that would allow hot moist air to cause condensation water damage, especially in attics. Install water line shock absorbers. Blow out your sprinkler system prior to freezing temperatures. Keep gutters clean. Practical Energy Cost Reduction For The Home 51 EMERGENCY GENERATOR AND THE ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME If you live in a wind, lightning or ice storm area, you may have a back-up generator to power key items of your home during electrical outages.