- If you have an electric water heater, check for hot water leaks. Also check to see if the high pressure relief valve (Pop off) is leaking. Fix any leaks as soon as possible.
- Check your electric water heater thermostat. Set the thermostat to normal or 115 degrees, unless your dishwasher requires a higher setting.
- In the winter check for ice build up on the coils of your heat pump. If there is an accumulation of ice, you may have a defrost problem.
- When the thermostat on your heat pump is calling for heat, check to see if the compressor is running, if not, determine the problem or call your heat pump contractor. Use emergency heat only when your unit will not work in the normal mode.
- Change heating system filters once a month. In summer keep window air conditioner filters clean as well.
- When the fireplace is not in use, close the damper. Do not use the fireplace and heat pump or electric heat at the same time.
- If you live in a mobile home make sure the underpinning is sealed tightly.
- If you live in a mobile home check for air duct leaks. If you live in a double-wide, check to see if the crossover duct is down
- Repair any broken windows and if they do not fit tightly install storm windows or a film of plastic over the inside of the window.
- If you have a well pump, check to see if the pump is running more than usual. If it’s running, a pipe could be leaking or the pump could be water-logged.
- Turn lights, TV and non-essential appliances off when not in use.
- Swimming Pool circulating pumps can add $50 to $70 dollars per month to your electric bill.
- Make sure hot tubs are covered when not in use.
- Keep a heated water bed covered during the day. This will hold the heat in.
- Crankcase heaters for diesel trucks and tractors will substantially add to your bill.
- Set the thermostat to 68 degrees in the winter and 78 or higher in the summer.
- Space heaters will substantially add to your bill. Turn heaters off when not in use.