Fall is coming and that means it’s time to turn our attention indoors and get ready for it. Start thinking cozy, “hygge” thoughts and take some steps to get prep home for the coming autumnal weather.
Actually, cooler weather is a relief for many, making sleeping easier and outdoor hikes and walks more pleasant. So plan on enjoying it! And while making home cozy is a priority for efficiency, this fall is also the perfect one to spend as much time as possible outdoors.
Here are some simple steps you can take to prep for autumn and make your home more energy efficient—which will save on costs and keep the house comfortable as chilly days arrive.
1. Insulate whatever you can. You’ve heard it a million times… but it’s because it works! Insulation is one of the best bang-for-the-buck investments you can make in your home from an energy efficiency standpoint. It keeps cold weather outside, where it belongs! There is a wealth of helpful insulation information here.
2. Caulk and weather strip windows and doors – 20% of the air you pay to heat (or cool) could literally be flying out the window (or door, as the case may be). Therefore, for as little as $30 worth of materials, you could save you hundreds of dollars in heating bills this fall and winter.
3. Order fuel and do it early. This applies to both heating oil and propane. Our trucks get busy with the first wave of cold air, and you don’t want a delay in fulfillment when temps drop. Furthermore, prices traditionally rise in colder months when demand is higher, so it actually does pay to order earlier. You can check “today’s price” every day on our home page. Then easy ordering is right here.
4. Test your heating system. Assure you have warmth when you want it: turn your heat on to 5° above the current room temperature. You should hear the hum of your furnace… However, if the heat doesn’t start flowing:
- Be sure the oil burner switch is on.
- Check that the boiler has water. (steam systems)
- Check that there is oil in the tank.
- Press the reset button ONCE only.
- Check all fuses
However, if none of those work, it’s time to call our service department full of service superheroes. Or click here to request a service call.
Now you’ve prepped your home for autumn inside, and can relax and enjoy our beautiful New Jersey fall weather!