DIY advice homeowners can act on anytime

These tips don’t require joining any program—but they align with the same principles taught in CamdenCAN sessions.

Comfort & Efficiency

• Seal obvious air leaks around doors, attic hatches, and basement penetrations.
• Use programmable or smart thermostats to reduce heating when you’re asleep or away.
• Keep furniture and curtains from blocking heat sources and vents.

Heating & Cooling

• Clean heat pump filters monthly during heavy use.
• If using oil, gas, or propane, schedule annual system maintenance.
• Lower thermostats a few degrees and rely on warm clothing indoors.

Hot Water & Appliances

• Wash clothes in cold water and air-dry when possible.
• Install low-flow showerheads and fix dripping faucets.
• Run dishwashers and laundry machines with full loads only.

Electricity Use

• Replace remaining incandescent bulbs with LEDs.
• Use power strips to eliminate “phantom loads” from electronics.
• Shift energy use to off-peak hours when possible.

Weather Resilience

• Prepare for outages with battery-powered lights and backup charging options.
• Improve insulation and draft control to keep homes warmer during winter storms.
• Consider long-term resilience options like heat pumps paired with solar and storage.