The quest for coziness

• Replace your HVAC filters: Maintaining unhindered (and clean) air flow can help reduce energy consumption.

• Use CFL or LED lightbulbs: Bulbs meeting new standards can save 25 percent to 80 percent more energy, and upgrading 15 tradi- tional incandescent light bulbs in your home could save you roughly $50 per year.

• Caulk windows and doors: This may involve good, old-fashioned elbow grease, but it’s well worth it. Caulking and weather-stripping can reduce energy waste and protect your home from moisture damage.

• Shut the door: Were you born in a barn or something? But really, close the door and central air vents to rooms that aren’t often used—you don’t want to pay to heat an empty space.

• Reverse your ceiling fan: You know how warm air rises, and cool air sinks? If you switch the direction your fan blades turn, the cooler air is drawn upwards, allowing you lower your thermostat by a few notches.

Source: EarthTechling.com