As the seasons change and the sun sets on another summer, now is the time to start preparing your home for the crisp autumn days ahead. This means a new set of priorities for homeowners, especially when it comes to energy use and home efficiency.
At UGI EnergyLink, we help homeowners make informed choices that keep energy costs down without compromising comfort. We’ve compiled an easy-to-follow end-of-summer checklist that not only prepares your home for fall but can also help reduce energy waste and improve efficiency.
Schedule Seasonal HVAC Maintenance
Your heating and cooling system has likely been working overtime to keep your house comfortable during hot and humid days. Before temperatures drop, it’s important to schedule a professional tune-up of your system to ensure it is ready for the seasonal shift and keep your home warm on cozy autumn nights.
HVAC maintenance may include:
- Replacing air filters to improve airflow and indoor air quality.
- Having a technician inspect ducts, thermostats, and pilot lights.
- Ensuring the system is heating efficiently and there are no blockages or leaks.
- Updating your settings for cooler weather on programmable thermostat models.
A well-maintained HVAC system not only runs more efficiently, but also lasts longer, saving you money.
Inspect and Improve Insulation
One easy way to retain indoor warmth through the colder months is to ensure your insulation is doing its job. That means checking for small drafts or other air leaks that can cause your heating system to work harder than necessary.
Follow this end-of-summer checklist for your insulation:
- Check windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Inspect your attic and basement. These spaces are often the biggest culprits for heat loss. Consider adding insulation if it’s outdated or minimal.
- Update your outlets and switch plates to use foam gaskets behind the outlet covers to prevent hidden drafts.
Sealing your home properly keeps warm air in and cold air out, resulting in less strain on your heating system and greater energy savings for you and your family.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fan
Did you know that your ceiling fans can help with heating, as well as cooling? Most ceiling fans have a small switch on the motor base that allows you to reverse the direction of the blades.
In summer, fans should spin counterclockwise to create a breeze. In the fall and winter, switch them to a clockwise direction at a low speed. This pushes the warm air that collects near the ceiling down into the room, reducing the need to run your heater.
Check Your Water Heater Settings
As cooler temperatures arrive, it’s common for water heater energy usage to creep up; however, that doesn’t have to mean your energy bill does too.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends setting your water heater to 120 degrees for efficient performance while reducing the risk of scalding.
Flushing your heater’s tank to remove sediment buildup should also be on your end-of-summer checklist. Excess buildup can reduce your heater’s efficiency. For older models, wrap the heater in an insulating blanket to minimize standby heat loss.
Clean and Store Summer Appliances
It may be sad to say goodbye to your grill for the season, but proper cleaning, maintenance, and storage can help extend its life and prevent energy waste next year.
Follow these instructions for putting away your warm-weather staples:
- Unplug and clean window units, and consider covering them or removing them entirely to prevent cold air from leaking in.
- Drain and store garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves to prevent pipe bursts in colder months.
- Clean your grill, cover it, and store propane tanks safely in a well-ventilated area.
- Cover and store lawn equipment, such as push mowers and weed whackers, in your basement, garage, or shed.
Including these tasks on your end-of-summer checklist will ensure your home is ready for the return of warm weather next spring.
Prepare for Storm Season
As leaves fall, autumn weather can bring unpredictable storms. Preparing now can save you energy and protect you and your home.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries or devices if needed.
- Clean debris out of gutters to prevent ice dams and water damage.
- Inspect your roof for missing shingles or leaks.
- Stock up on emergency supplies like flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, and backup phone cords or charging banks.
A weather-ready home is a more energy-efficient one, giving you peace of mind as the seasons change.
Fall Into Energy Savings with UGI EnergyLink
Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean your energy savings need to end too. UGI EnergyLink is here to help you make smart, sustainable decisions for your home and business energy needs year-round.
Ready to save on energy this fall? Contact us today to discover how our energy solutions can help you stay comfortable and in control as the seasons change.