Choose Location Contact Us Sign In/Register Home Billing Report Outage or Emergency Start/Stop Service Save Energy Our Stories Home Our Stories Seven Ways to Save Energy & Money this Fall Published: 9/30/2021 63 Likes Strategies and available programs to reduce energy usage and save money Use these helpful tips to reduce your energy usage and save money as the weather starts getting cooler. Article Summary Like This Article This article is about: Thermostat settings for your heating system and water heater Checking air filters Inspecting ductwork Knowing your heating system Upgrading attic insulation Caulking, sealing and weather-stripping Installing LED bulbs Available rebates and incentives to help you save money With the arrival of cooler weather, it's a great time to make some adjustments around the house to help reduce your energy usage and save money. Keeping your home warm doesn't have to cause a dent in your energy bill. Here are seven tips to help you to save energy this fall. In addition, learn about available programs in your area, including rebates and incentives to help you reduce your energy usage and save money. You can also view this helpful video from ENERGY STAR® on how to stay warm when the weather cools down. Open Transcript 1. Lower Your Thermostat Did you know heating and cooling your home accounts for nearly 50% of your annual energy bill? During colder months, setting your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower can make a big difference. Each degree lower can significantly decrease your heating costs in the winter. And a smart thermostat can keep your indoor temperature at a comfortable setting throughout the day and night. IMPORTANT: Make sure the thermostat is compatible with your HVAC system. 2. Check Air Filters Monthly and Change When Dirty Leave interior doors open and don’t close vents to allow adequate air flow through your HVAC system. 3. Periodically Check Your Ductwork for Leaks or Tears Repair fallen or crushed ductwork and use mastic (a plaster-like substance found at your local hardware store) to help seal leaks. 4. Know Your Heating System and Get a Tune-up Do you know what kind of heating system you have? It's important to know about the equipment and its maintenance. Fall is the perfect time to get a tune-up to avoid surprise problems when you first turn on the heat this winter. 5. Upgrade Your Attic Insulation You can save a lot on your energy bills by adding attic insulation to a minimum of R-38 (12-14 inches). There are a variety of methods – some do-it-yourself, and others best installed by a professional. 6. Caulk, Seal and Weather-strip Take the time to caulk, seal, and weather-strip around all seams, cracks and openings to protect against drafts. Pay special attention to windows and exterior doors. 7. Make the Switch to LED Bulbs Because the days are getting shorter, now is a great time to replace standard incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR® LEDs, which are 90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Save even more! Learn about available programs in your area to include rebates and incentives to help you reduce your energy usage and save money. Like This Article SAVE ENERGY SEASONAL ENERGY SAVING TIPS SAVE ENERGY ENERGY SAVING TIPS & PROJECTS SAVE ENERGY ENERGY SAVING TIPS FOR YOUR HOME Report your outage or emergency. For other questions, help is available under Contact Us. Sign In Billing Start/Stop Service Save Energy Report Outage or Emergency Contact Us Our Stories Investors Media Room Suppliers Government Solutions Large Business Services Careers Our Company Projects & Facilities Lakes & Recreation Rates & Tariffs Safety [+] Feedback Copyright © 2021 Dominion Energy Privacy Do Not Sell My Info (CA) Terms & Conditions En Español Cookies & Privacy We use cookies and similar technologies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. By continuing to use this website or closing this banner, you accept our use of the first and third party cookies. To read more go to our Privacy Notice or Terms and Conditions. Accept and Proceed to the Site