MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – Heating and cooling can account for as much as half of the energy used in your home, according to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

“Temperatures are cooling off and winter is right around the corner, so now is the time to evaluate your heating system’s efficiency,” said Juan Holmes, Santee Cooper’s manager of conservation and energy efficiency. “By paying a little bit of attention to heating system issues, you can help keep your energy bills in check.”

Knowing when to change the air filter can save energy when the heat is on. Check your filter on a monthly basis and when the filter is dirty, change it. Dirty air filters slow air flow and force your system to work harder. A clean filter keeps your system in good working condition and helps keep maintenance to a minimum.

Examine your heating system’s air ducts, and seal seams and connections with a duct sealant or metal-backed tape to protect against air leaks. In addition, Santee Cooper suggests customers have a professional inspect their cooling and heating system on a regular basis.

In order to keep energy bills lower, set your thermostat at 68 degrees in the winter months. If you feel chilly, consider putting on a sweater or covering up with a blanket before turning up the heat.

You can save energy when you’re not home too. If you plan on traveling during the holidays, set your thermostat at 55 degrees, which will save energy during the extended absence from home but still be warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing.

The type of HVAC system your home has can make the biggest difference. The DOE says heat pumps save 30-40 percent more energy than typical furnaces.

If you’re in the market for a new electric heat pump, remember to look for energy-efficient models. If you’re a Santee Cooper customer, you may be eligible for heat pump rebates. More information and eligibility requirements are available at www.ReduceTheUse.com.

Santee Cooper is South Carolina’s state-owned electric and water utility, and the state’s largest power producer. The ultimate source of electricity for 2 million South Carolinians, Santee Cooper is dedicated to being the state’s leading resource for improving the quality of life for the people of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.santeecooper.com.