Spring is in the air, and with it comes changing temperatures across the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re basking in sunny afternoons or bracing for brisk mornings, staying comfortable at home doesn’t have to mean higher energy bills. Energy Trust of Oregon has you covered with simple, effective tips to boost your home’s energy efficiency — so you can enjoy the season while keeping costs in check.

• Check vents and filters. Regular maintenance on forced-air furnaces and ductless heating systems will extend the lifespan of your equipment. Be sure to check filters every month to ensure proper airflow. For ductless pumps, clean the filter on the indoor fan-coil unit monthly to guarantee maximum efficiency. If you have a ducted HVAC system, replacement filters are recommended every one to six months depending on use.
• Keep your equipment free of clutter. While inspecting filters, check that furniture or other obstructions aren’t blocking your equipment. To increase airflow, maintain a two-foot clearance area around any openings. Outdoor systems can be managed by removing any encroaching plants on your heat pump or air conditioner.
• Insulate hot water pipes. Uninsulated hot water pipes often make your water heater work harder than necessary to maintain the set water temperature. Insulating your hot water pipes reduces heat loss, giving your water heater a break and allowing you to save money on utility costs.
• Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. LED bulbs are energy-efficient, saving money and energy. The average U.S. household has around 50 light bulbs, so that undertaking might sound difficult, but a good place to start is by replacing your five most-used bulbs with ENERGY STAR® LEDs.
• Take advantage of the sunshine. Opening curtains and blinds to let in natural light will help your home feel warmer during those cool spring days. To keep your house fresh and comfortable, clean your windows of dust, dirt and grime.

• Be smart with your heating. It may seem obvious, but turning the heat down is an easy-to-overlook step that can have a significant impact on energy costs. Setting back the thermostat in empty units or unused rooms is a great place to start, but a more efficient option is to install smart thermostats.

For more energy-saving tips and incentive information, contact Energy Trust at 1.866.368.7878.