Power for Progress …A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority Fall back to energy efficiency
Let the sun shine in … There may be less daylight this time of the year, but the sunlight coming in through those south facing windows can still help to heat your home. This week, GRDA covers that and other energy saving tips to keep in mind as daylight saving time comes to an end.
Now that Daylight Savings Time has come to an end, many of us will likely be heading indoors a litter earlier in the evenings. Thus, it is also likely we will also be using a bit more electricity as the lights come on a bit earlier or stay on 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 to keep mind …
But first: as you turn your clock back an hour, remember it is also a great time to check the batteries in your smoke alarm, fire alarm, and carbon monoxide monitors.
Welcome the sun in. 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.
Cover up the drafts. Covering those drafty windows is 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.
Have your heating system checked. Now is a great time to have your home heating system checked 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 is too late.
Do not forget the fireplace damper. 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 lets warm air go out 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.
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