Spotlight - You Can Take Steps To Make Heating Systems More Efficient, Conserve Energy

Homeowners can help protect themselves from the expected record-high heating costs this winter by inspecting their home heating equipment and by following simple, effective energy conservation measures, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.

 

“A typical Pennsylvania family spends more than $3,400 a year on utility bills, and the U.S. Energy Information Agency predicts residential heating costs will rise more than 30 percent in 2009,” said DEP Acting Secretary John Hanger. “We can take easy steps to conserve energy and save money. This winter, many families will be facing difficult financial decisions due to high energy costs, but reducing their energy consumption can go a long way to provide a measure of relief.”

 

Performing basic maintenance on heating and cooling systems and practicing energy conservation at home is one way consumers can manage rising energy costs. A first step in homes heated with oil is to inspect indoor and outdoor heating oil tanks for potential problems prior to refilling.

 

“A quick, 10-minute visual inspection of the tank is important to identify potentially serious problems before they occur,” said Acting Secretary Hanger. “A leaking tank or line can lead to a dangerous situation for a homeowner. The oil tank and all structural supports should be inspected for signs of rusting. The tank’s fill line and the feed line to the furnace should be examined for leaks. Wet spots or odors near the tank may signal a problem.”

 

In addition to safety, leaking heating oil could cause indoor air problems and potentially contaminate groundwater and private drinking water wells.

 

Anyone who thinks an oil tank may have problems should immediately call an oil company for help. Any maintenance or alterations to a heating oil tank system should be done by a professional.

Natural gas heating systems also need to be inspected for leaks, which can create health and safety dangers. Homeowners should inspect delivery lines and storage tanks. Recent home energy audits conducted by the Philadelphia-based nonprofit Energy Coordinating Agency found virtually every home with natural gas heat it inspected had leaks, some homes as many as eight.

 

A home energy audit can disclose where a home is losing heat and wasting energy. The audit report should prioritize work that needs to be done based on cost-effectiveness.

 

Common recommendations include:

-- Seal and insulate, usually starting with the attic;

-- Install a programmable thermostat;

-- Upgrade the heating system;

-- Replace old appliances with high-efficiency ENERGY STAR units;

-- Switch to energy-efficient lighting;

-- Install storm windows and insulating curtains or shades; and

-- Replace or add energy-efficiency features to a home’s water heater

 

Information is also available at www.StayWarmPA.com, including conservation tips and resources for getting financial assistance with utility bills and home weatherization.

 

Visit DEP's website for more tips on energy conservation and residential heating oil tanks.