Basement: The foundation of energy savings
 Furnace
- Schedule an annual inspection of your heating system. A qualified contractor can inspect your furnace to ensure it is working properly. If repairs are needed, have a qualified contractor perform the work.
- If your furnace is old, replacing it with a new, high-efficiency furnace can save valuable energy dollars.
- Replace air filters in your furnace every three to six months. Clogged filters make the furnace work harder, wearing it down.
Water heater
- Wrap the water heater tank with an insulation blanket (in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines) to keep water in the tank warm – reducing the amount of energy needed to heat up the water. Also, insulate the water pipes leading out from your water heater with inexpensive foam sleeves.
- Periodically drain the water heater until water runs clear. This allows sediment and mineral deposits to escape and increases efficiency.
- Lower your water heater thermostat setting to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. For a family of four, this could reduce energy use by 15 percent, saving approximately $37 per year.
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