Energy consultant: give home, business for winter start

If you rent your home, ask your landlord to have it inspected.

“Your heating system may have been working fine at the end of last winter, but sometimes problems can arise,” said Energy Services Supervisor Dwayne Dunham. “That’s why early detection is so important. You don’t want to go out on the first cold day of the season only to realize something is wrong.

Zone heaters, like baseboard heaters or wall heaters, do not require service unless they stop working. But dust accumulation makes them work less efficiently, so they use good cleaning. Once they are clean, and the thermostat that controls them, test them to make sure they are working properly.

If your heating system is suitable, consider upgrading to a modern thermostat. They are easy to install and use. Plus, after learning your schedule and personal preferences, you’ll automate as efficiently as possible, saving you money all year long.

With that system running smoothly, you can move on to other small changes to help you make the most of every future heating dollar.

Inspect and, if necessary, replace weatherstripping, wipers and seals on exterior doors.

Next, check the exterior of your home for any cracks or crevices through windows, pipes, cables, or other holes in the walls. Use outdoor sealant to seal any gaps or replace a cracked or peeling old stud.