| DANA O. PORTER, P.E. WVU Extension Service Agricultural Engineering Specialist As cold weather approaches, now is a good time to consider "winterizing" homes. Many references are available to assist homeowners in selecting alternative heating sources, maintaining heating systems, installing insulation, and other energy saving practices. This document lists some references available to answer frequently asked questions related to these issues. Burning Wood and Coal Burning Wood and Coal (NRAES-23) is a good basic reference for homeowners interested in installing a solid fuels home heating system. This publication addresses relative costs of heating with coal and wood compared with electricity, fuel oil, and natural gas. It discusses fireplaces, stoves, furnaces and boilers. Installation, maintenance, and safety are emphasized. This 89-page reference is available from NRAES or from WVU Cooperative Extension Service for $5. Home Heating in an Emergency Home heating emergencies arise from power outages, temporary fuel shortages, or furnace failures. Home Heating in an Emergency (NRAES-9) offers guidelines to prepare for these emergencies. It addresses installation of safe backup heating systems, appraisal of home heating systems, and actions to take in the event of a home heating emergency. This 16-page reference is available from NRAES* or WVU Cooperative Extension Service for $4. Fact Sheets from the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Fact Sheet series: "Energy Conservation in the Rural Home" AFS-2-3-2: Save Heating and Cooling Dollars with Weatherstripping and Caulking Other Sources of Information The Ohio State University Extension Publications Catalog lists the following subjects related to home heating and energy conservation: Caulking The Colorado State University Extension Publications Catalog lists the following fact sheets related to home heating and energy conservation: no. 10.612: Attached solar greenhouses Local power generation/utility companies often enclose energy-saving tips with billing materials. Further, larger utility companies employ technical specialists who assist customers with energy efficiency and conservation issues. Manufacturers of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (also known as HVAC) equipment can advise customers about system efficiency and maintenance. Some even have sites on the World Wide Web (see http://www.rheem.com/rheem/rhe0007.html). * Northeast Regional Agricultural Engineering Service materials may be ordered from: 152 Riley-Robb Hall |
