Power for Progress: Energy tips for “falling back”

Let the sun shine in
The days are getting shorter but its still a good idea to take advantage of daytime sunlight to heat your home in the fall. This week, GRDA shares more about that and some other important energy tips to keep in mind.

Power for Progress …

A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority

Energy tips for “falling back”

The end of Daylight-Saving Time is just around the corner, which means many of us will likely be indoors sooner in the evenings. It goes to follow then, that we will also be using a bit more electricity as the lights come on earlier and stay on just a bit later. However, there are still some steps you can take this time of year to help save on energy costs. Here are just a few …

But first, as you turn your clock back one hour, remember it is also a great time to check the batteries on the smoke alarm, fire alarm and carbon monoxide monitors.

Next, be sure to welcome in the sun when you can. It will get dark earlier after the time change, but you can still take advantage of sunshine during the daylight hours. Open your curtains on south facing windows to allow the sun to naturally heat your home. Then, close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

Of course, covering those drafty windows is also important this time of year. Make sure to caulk and seal any drafts. Then, consider installing insulating drapes or shades on windows that still feel a bit drafty after you weatherize.

Also, now is a great time to have your home’s heating systems checked out by a qualified, licensed technician. Are the filters clean and ready to go for the fall and winter season? Is the system in proper working order? Have it checked out before it’s too late.

Finally, if you use a fireplace to heat your home, remember to keep the damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.

Your friends at GRDA want you to stay safe and warm through the changing seasons!

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: employees, electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, and efficiency.