Make a “Draft Snake”

Keep your energy bill under control during winter months by using a rolled bath towel or "draft snake" inside leaky door bottoms.

Install Child-proof Plugs

Even if you don’t have young children, installing child-proof plugs can save energy. A substantial amount of cold and warm air can escape and enter your home through your outlets.

Locate Air Leaks

The potential energy savings from reducing drafts in a home may range from 5% to 30% per year. Some indoor air leaks in your home are outlets, baseboards, junctures between walls and ceilings and fireplace dampers. Close your fireplace dampers when not in use. This will prevent cool air from escaping in the summer, and cold air from entering your home in the winter.

Turn Down Your Thermostat

Turn down your thermostat when you are away or sleeping. Or, for a small investment, install a programmable thermostat which allows you to lower the temperature in the winter when you’re asleep or away, and raise the temperature when you’re away during the summer.

Wash Your Clothes in Cold Water

Washing your clothes in cold water will save you some money and energy each year. Also, don't over-wash your clothes. Delicate clothes need less time in the wash cycle than heavily soiled work clothes.

Caulk Leaky Interior Edges

Check caulking and weather-stripping for air leaks and repair if necessary.

Install Blinds or Shades

Closing shades, blinds or curtains can keep the home cooler. Remember, black absorbs heat, so they’ll be the most effective if they are white or light in color.

Ventilate Your Attic

There is no substitute for proper attic ventilation. You should have one free square-foot of attic ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic. Learn more about ventilation and related products.

Plant a Tree

It’s hard to believe, but having several windows on the east or west side of your home can produce heat equal to that of a two-kilowatt electric space heater.

Landscaping is a natural way to shade your home. Well-placed trees and shrubs not only save on air conditioning costs, but add value to your property as well. Planting a large deciduous tree on the south or southwest side of the house is equal to about a half-ton of air conditioning.

Add a Storm Door

Adding a storm door can be a good investment if your existing door is old but still in good condition. However, never add a glass storm door if the exterior door gets more than a few hours of direct sun each day. The glass will trap too much heat against the entry door, which could possibly cause damage to the door. Find out more about storm doors.

Clean Your Gutters

If your gutters are clogged, or rusted, they can cause a multitude of problems both inside and outside of your home. Clogged and rusted gutters can cause rotting roof boards, ice dams and the deterioration of your siding and trim. It can also cause dampness or wetness in the basement, which will bring another host of problems to you inside your home. So, keep your gutters free of debris live leaves and twigs and replace them when it’s time. Learn more about our low-maintenance guttters.