HARRISBURG – As sharply colder weather makes its first appearance across much of the state, Gov. Edward G. Rendell has reminded Pennsylvanians that they can save up to $740 during the heating season by improving the energy efficiency of their homes.
To help consumers achieve these savings, Pennsylvania has launched the “Turn, Seal, Save” campaign, which encourages residents to turn down their thermostats and seal off drafts in order to stretch their heating budgets by curbing energy use.
“It’s difficult to predict exactly where heating fuel prices are headed, which makes it important for consumers to take steps now to better manage energy use around their homes,” Gov. Rendell said. “We want to make sure that every Pennsylvania family is able to stay warm all winter long.”
By visiting TurnSealSave.org, consumers can learn about specific actions they can take to control energy use and reduce heating costs. These actions include:
• Prevent outside air from entering your home. Inspect your home and seal any cracks or openings around windows, doors, fireplaces, pipes, electrical outlets and bathroom, kitchen or clothes dryer vents. Weather stripping, caulk, or fiberglass insulation can be used for this purpose.
• If you own an older home, adding storm doors and windows can reduce heat loss by up to half.
• Purchase plastic window covering kits or interior storm window kits. Carefully follow instructions.
• Add insulation to your attic, as well as any walls and floors that are adjacent to an unheated space such as a garage.
• Have your furnace or heating unit serviced to ensure it is working safely and efficiently. Replace furnace filters regularly.
• Set your thermostat at 65 degrees and dress warmly. Older adults and families with infants may need to select a warmer thermostat setting.
• Close draperies at night and on cloudy days and open them on sunny days.
• Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs are more energy-efficient and last longer than traditional light bulbs.
• Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 115 degrees.
• Turn off electric appliances when not in use.
The Web site also offers information about the Pennsylvania Weatherization Assistance Program, which is administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development. The program focuses on increasing the energy efficiency of homes occupied by low-income residents, helping to reduce their energy costs while safeguarding their health and safety.
Since its launch two weeks ago, TurnSealSave.org has been visited by more than 17,000 Internet users.
On Oct. 14, Gov. Rendell convened the 2008 Stay Warm PA summit, consisting of seven regional meetings chaired by local United Way leaders and members of the Governor’s cabinet. The meetings helped to coordinate state and local efforts to educate community members about heating assistance programs, promote energy conservation and, where necessary, prepare to respond to crisis situations.
As part of the summit, the Governor also announced $280 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps Pennsylvanians having trouble paying their heating bills and facing heating emergencies like shut-offs. The Department of Public Welfare will open the LIHEAP program on Nov. 3 and applications may be made at county assistance offices.
