TVA: stay warm, save more money

Cold winter weather has moved into the Tennessee Valley area, and the TVA is sharing a few tips to help Franklin County save money and stay cozy:

• Keep curtains open on the south side of the house and closed on the north during the day to trap the warming sunlight.
• Install an ENERGY STAR-certified programmable thermostat.
• Set the thermostat to 68 degrees or even lower when no one is home for several days.
• Insulate heating and cooling ducts and repair any air leaks. Add insulation to attics, crawlspaces and any accessible exterior walls.
• Change air filters monthly. Dirty filters force heating systems to work harder.
• Caulk and weather-strip around windows and doors and install insulating gaskets to exterior light switches and electrical outlets to stop air leaks.
• Take advantage of the heat generated by cooking.
• Don’t send warm air up the chimney. Make sure the fireplace damper is closed when not in use.
• Use area rugs with hardwood or tile floors to keep feet warm.
• Keep weeds and debris away from the outdoor unit for the heating system.