Well maintained equipment optimizes efficiency

• Have your heating appliances been inspected annually so your heating dollars are going into your house, not up the chimney? Consider a Downeast Energy Service Contract - your annual tune-up is included.
• Request a free Energy Audit from Downeast Energy. We will review your heating system for efficiency.
• Request automatic delivery, a free service, so you won't run out of fuel.

Conservation

• Turn down your thermostat when you can. Are you away during the day? Prefer to sleep in a cooler room? Turning down your thermostat for eight hours each day saves fuel - up to 10% if you lower the temperature by 10 degrees.
• Automate your thermostat with an inexpensive electronic thermostat. If you are on a regular schedule, it will automatically lower the heat when you typically leave, and turn it back up before you come home.
• Solar heat is free. Let the sun pour in wherever and whenever you can. What a difference it makes!

Preparation

• Make sure heat flows freely. Move furniture and draperies so that the warm air is circulating freely.
• Vacuum warm air registers and baseboard settings occasionally. And don't cover them with furniture or rugs!
• Weather strip and caulk. On a cold day, pass your hand over places that might be leaking heat - windows, doors, electric outlets, even fireplaces. Make a list and take a trip to Downeast Building Supply for the materials you need. Some experts estimate this could save 25% to 50% of your heating dollars!
• Add insulation to areas that might be stealing heat. Unfinished attics and basements are common culprits. Insulating between floor joints can also make a big difference.
• Check your storm windows and doors. Are they leaking? Do you have condensation or frost on the inside? If so, it is time to repair or replace.