| Save energy this winter |
Page 1 of 2 (ARA) - As fall turns to winter, energy usage turns into higher energy bills and, according to the Department of Energy, 2007 energy costs are increasing. While there are plenty of costly ways to save energy this winter -- buying a high efficiency furnace, radiant floor heating system or solar-paneled roof -- there are also ways to save energy that won’t cost you a dime. “We’re seeing a trend with consumers who want to live comfortably and efficiently,” says Chuck Smith, CEO of Hunter Fan. Smith says many consumers aren’t willing to sacrifice their comfort in an effort to save energy, but they do want smart solutions for consuming less. “Having the right products and home infrastructure is only part of the equation, “says Smith. “Some of the most effective solutions to save energy can be implemented simply by knowing what to look for around your home.” According to Smith, some of the most effective energy-savings solutions are right under your nose or, in one case, right above your head. Follow these no-cost tips to save energy this winter: Flip the Switch … on Your Ceiling Fan that is A ceiling fan is naturally energy efficient -- it circulates air while using very little electricity. Most people don’t realize a ceiling fan can help warm you up in the winter as easily as it can cool you down in the summer. In fact, less than 25 percent of people are taking advantage of the easy energy savings a ceiling fan affords. “One of the most economical ways to save energy during the winter is to run your ceiling fan in the proper direction,” says Sandy DeWald, ceiling fans product manager for Hunter. “Many people cringe at the notion of lowering their thermostat when it’s cold out because they do not want to sacrifice comfort to save energy and lower utility bills. That’s why the ceiling fan is so important. Operated correctly, a ceiling fan that’s sized appropriately for the room can save you up to 10 percent on your energy bill.” As DeWald explains, most ceiling fans have a switch that controls the direction of the blades. When the fan runs counter-clockwise, it blows air down, providing the cooling effect desired during warmer months. By running the fan clockwise, during colder months, it circulates the warm air near the ceiling. This circulating effect makes the room warmer, which decreases demands on heating systems and allows you to comfortably turn down your thermostat to save energy costs. “Turning down your thermostat just one degree can save you two percent on your energy bills,” adds DeWald. “What makes the ceiling fan even more economical is that it only costs a few pennies a day to operate.” |
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