Print < Garage and Basement Smarts

A little boy ties his shoes in a garage.

Thomas J. Story

Saving Spaces

They may not be heated, air-conditioned, or as well-insulated as other parts of your home, but you can still save energy in these spaces.

A garage door keeps out the draft -- or heat.

Courtesy of Lowe’s

Keep It Closed

Close your garage door to keep hot or cold air out of the house.

An icebox should be updated for efficiency.

Courtesy of W.C. Wood Company

Freezer Ease

If you have a refrigerator or freezer in your basement or garage, make sure it’s an updated, energy-efficient model. And if you’re not using the appliance, consider selling or donating it.

Weather stripping keeps insulation properly functioning.

Courtesy of Ace Hardware

Control the Temp

Make sure insulation in your basement and weather stripping in your garage are functioning properly. Both help keep temperature extremes under control to avoid overtaxing your heating and cooling systems. Pay attention to insulating the ceiling in unheated basements and garages, which will help keep heated or cooled air in the rooms above where it belongs.

Pictured here:
Dennis Garage Door Weatherstrip
$19.99
Available at HardwareStore

Courtesy of Target

Try a Dehumidifier

Control the moisture level in a damp basement with a dehumidifier.

Pictured here:
Whirlpool 25-Pint Mechanical Dehumidifier
$159
Available at Sargent Appliance

An electric heater blanket keeps heat inside the tank.

Courtesy of Ace Hardware

Buy a Blanket

Wrap your electric water heater with an insulating blanket to hold heat inside the tank.

Pictured here:
Thermwell Water Heater Blanket
$20.99 to $21.99
Available at Ace Hardware

Courtesy of Alabama Power