The Energy Source
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New Homeowner Winter Savings Checklist
![two people unrolling a carpet in a new home](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20170127184827im_/https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/assets/images/200068257-001_5.png)
Have you recently purchased your first home? If so, congratulations! Owning your own place is full of excitement and independence, but it can also be daunting—especially when your first utility bill arrives. As the temperatures continue to drop and your heating bills rise, we have several tips to help keep your costs in check and your new home comfortable all winter long:
- Keep your HVAC system clean and efficient by changing your air filter and scheduling regular maintenance.
- Set your thermostat for energy savings. Adjust set points each season and whenever you leave the house.
- Install a door sweep to seal the gap at the bottom of doors, and prevent warm air from escaping outside.
- Rule Your Attic! by checking your attic insulation levels. Having enough insulation helps keeps you comfortable all year round.
- Look out for ice dams this winter, and learn how to seal air leaks in your home to prevent future issues.
- Close your fireplace damper when not in use. Otherwise, your home’s air (which you’ve paid to heat) will escape in a draft up the chimney!
- Reverse your ceiling fan during the winter to redistribute the warm air at the top of the room down to the living space to keep your home comfortable.
- Did you already tackle some of these home improvements last year? Find out which of your 2016 home purchases qualify for tax benefits here.
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If you liked this post, you might want to read:
- DIY Project: Seal Air Leaks in Your Home
- DIY Project: Maintain a Clean and Efficient HVAC System
- DIY Project: Switch to LED Bulbs
- 5 Energy-Saving Tips You Haven't Heard
- The Room-by-Room Savings Series
- The Rule Your Attic Series
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