Insulate your water heater. Insulating a water heater that’s warm to the touch can save 7 to 16 percent annually on your water heating bills. Check with the manufacturer for their recommendations on tank insulation.
You can purchase a pre-cut jacket or blanket for about $20. Before you start, turn the water heater off. Wrap the blanket around the water heater and tape it to temporarily keep it in place. If necessary, use a marker to note the areas where the controls are so you can cut them out. Once positioned correctly, tape it permanently in place, then turn the water heater back on. If you have an electric water heater, do not set the thermostat above 130 degrees, which can cause overheating.
Seal air leaks with caulk. Applying caulk around windows, doors, electrical wiring and plumbing can save energy and money.
Before applying new caulk, clean and remove any old caulk or paint with a putty knife, screwdriver, brush or solvent. The area should be dry before you apply the new caulk.
Apply the caulk in one continuous stream, and make sure it sticks to both sides of the crack or seam. Afterwards, use a putty knife to smooth out the caulk, then wipe the surface with a dry cloth.
Weather strip exterior doors. When choosing weather stripping materials, make sure it can withstand temperature changes, friction and the general “wear and tear” for the location of the door. Keep in mind, you will need separate materials for the door sweep (at the bottom of the door) and the top and sides.
Before applying new weather stripping, clean the moulding with soap and water, then let the area dry completely. Measure each side of the door, then cut the weather stripping to fit each section. Make sure the weather stripping fits snuggly against both surfaces so it compresses when the door is closed.
DIY: Three easy projects to save energy
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