Autumn Home Prep: Simple Ways to Save Energy

Autumn is just around the corner, bringing cooler temperatures and falling leaves. Now is the ideal time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A few simple updates and maintenance tasks can help make your home more energy-efficient, keeping you comfortable while lowering your energy usage this winter.

Replace Your Filters
It’s easy to forget about your furnace filter, but now is the time to make it a priority. A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, using more energy and raising your bills. Replacing it regularly not only saves energy but also reduces allergens and prevents costly system strain.

Sealing and Insulating
Heating and cooling can account for nearly half of your home’s energy use. Reduce waste by sealing drafty areas, checking door weather stripping and window gaskets for leaks, and insulating ducts—especially in unheated spaces like attics and basements.

Program Your Thermostat
Make sure your programmable thermostat matches your current schedule. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting it between 68°F and 70°F while you’re awake and lowering it when you’re asleep or away to save energy.

Double-Check Your Chimneys and Vents
Before using your fireplace, have your chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent fire hazards and carbon monoxide leaks. Ask your chimney sweep to check your damper, and make sure all exterior exhaust fans (kitchen and bathrooms) are working properly.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed during winter. This gently pushes warm air down from the ceiling, helping your heating system run more efficiently.

Clear Leaves from Your HVAC Unit
Remove fallen leaves and debris from around your outdoor HVAC unit this autumn. Blocked airflow can make your system work harder, increasing energy use and risking potential damage.

Don't wait until you receive your first winter weather statement to call an Energy Advisor for your free energy audit. Our Energy Advisors will conduct an audit at your convenience.
Contact us at (317) 745-5473 or hendrickspower.com/energy-advisor.