| A few things you should know before you begin. You may purchase suggested items or services from many different providers, such as local heating and cooling parts supply centers, repair service outlets, parts and equipment distributors, contractors, and manufacturer representatives. Energy savings are not cumulative. Keep in mind that cost ranges for improvements can vary widely, depending on the nature and extent of improvements you make. Average energy savings will vary depending upon the size, age and condition of your systems and how they are installed. |
| Heating / cooling system improvements Enhance the performance of your heating and cooling systems with a tune-up. The right proportion of air and fuel is key, and a tune-up can help optimize air and fuel input for maximum energy efficiency. Too little air per unit of fuel causes unburned air to escape up the flue; too much air creates a higher draft that carries excess heat up and out. Average energy savings: 2.5 percent of current energy use |
| Boiler reset controls
Install boiler reset controls to adjust the water temperature in the building distribution system to correspond to outdoor air temperature fluctuations. You'll consume less energy in the heating system loop, reduce overheating in other building areas and increase seasonal efficiency. Average energy savings: 3.8 percent of current energy use |
| Boiler cut-out controls Conserve energy by installing boiler cut-out controls. They'll inhibit boiler operation when the outdoor temperature reaches a predetermined set point, so you'll avoid unnecessary energy use. ​Average energy savings: 1.7 percent of current energy use |
| Piping insulation Improve overall system efficiency and avoid unnecessary heat loss by insulating your hot water system piping. Apply insulating material on pipes from the boiler to the heating equipment. When considering insulation, remember that the R-value, or heat retention capability of the material, is more important than its thickness. The greater the R-value, the greater the insulating capability. Average energy savings: 2.5 percent of current energy use |
| Programmable thermostat
Program your heating or cooling system for energy savings by installing a setback or programmable thermostat. By automatically lowering your heat setting or raising your cooling setting at night or during other unoccupied hours, you can save significant amounts of energy. Average energy savings: 5 percent of current energy use |
| Water heater insulation
Insulate your water heater to reduce heat loss. When considering insulation, remember that the R-value, or heat retention capability of the material, is more important than its actual thickness. The greater the R-value, the greater the insulating capability. Average energy savings: 1 percent of current energy use |
| Ceiling fans
Reduce ceiling temperatures and decrease energy loss through the roof by installing ceiling fans. They'll mix rising warm air and circulate it downward to maintain comfortable, even temperatures more efficiently.
Average energy savings: 3.8 percent of current energy use |
| Occupancy sensors
Automate lights and exhaust fans in restrooms and employee break areas with occupancy sensors. Because these areas are not continually occupied, you'll save by operating lights and exhaust fans intermittently as people enter and leave.
Average energy savings: 1 percent of current energy use |
| Air sealing materials
Seal air leaks around doors and windows, at roofline and roof penetrations to reduce air leaks and maintain even building temperatures. You'll add comfort and lower energy consumption by reducing hot or cold air drafts.
Average energy savings: 2.7 percent of current energy use |
| Solar window film
Apply window film to reduce solar heat gain, a proven method for year-round energy efficiency. Many newer film types also help retain your heating system's warmth indoors during winter.
Average energy savings: 4.5 percent of current energy use |
