SHORELINES

21 a p c s hor e l i n e s.c om | 2015 Vol :1 SEPTEMBER • Inspect your heating system and check thermostats for accuracy. Replace them with programmable thermostats if they're not working properly. • Add more insulation to attics, crawl spaces and basements if needed. OCTOBER • Inspect water heater and drain tank to remove sediment if necessary. Remember to turn off the power to the water heater first. • Check the insulating blanket and pipe wrap on the water heater for wear, or add both if not already in use. JULY • Seal gaps in floors, doors, and windows to save up to 10 percent on your energy bill, and prevent moisture issues and drafts. • Ensure outdoor unit for air conditioner is free of leaves and other debris. • Close drapes during the day, and consider applying window film to minimize heat from the sun. AUGUST • Check the weatherstripping around your garage door and replace if needed. • Replace standard interior lightbulbs with compact fluorescent lightbulbs, which produce less heat. NOVEMBER • Set your ceiling fans to run clockwise, which causes the warm air near the ceiling to be redistributed to lower parts of the room. • Test refrigerator door seals by closing the door over a dollar bill; if it is easily removed, repair or replace the seal. DECEMBER • Check all electrical cords and plugs for damage or fraying, and repair if needed. • Vacuum refrigerator condenser coils to improve efficiency. • Perform an online Energy Checkup at: AlabamaPower.com/EnergyCheckUp. Left: Photo by chris Jones — The right windows can help you save on your energy bill. Center: Photo by chris Jones — Hot water heater. Right: Photo by chris Jones — Heat pump units heat and cool a home on Smith Lake.

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