Have an older home and haven’t added insulation. Only 20% of homes built before 1980 are well insulated.

You can use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Remember, the plastic must be sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration.

Keep windows on the south side of your house clean to let in the winter sun.

When the fireplace is not in use, keep the flue damper tightly closed. A chimney is designed specifically for smoke to escape, so until you close it, warm air escapes – 24 hours a day.

Set the thermostat as low as comfortably possible in the winter. The less difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall heating bill will be.

Examine your duct system for air leaks. Look for sections that should be joined, but have separated, and then look for obvious holes. Consider hiring a contractor to test the ducts and repair leaks and restrictions. Leaking duct-work accounts for more than 20%-30% of heating costs in an average Massachusetts home.

Clean furnace filters monthly. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy use. Keep the furnace clean, lubricated and properly adjusted to save up to 5% of heating costs.

Contact Prescott Oil via E-Mail page or Call 978-544-5106 or 978-895-3037 for a licensed professional to discuss servicing your equipment or advice.