I’m not one to watch weather forecasts each day. However, my 77-year-old mom loves weather reports and is a big fan of one local meteorologist for her predictive abilities and her inclination for bows and ruffles.
Beyond having a favorite meteorologist, my mom also doesn’t hesitate to warn me about the next big weather event, which is usually a few snow flurries or rain showers. Unfortunately, she may be right about a major event this week, as forecasts are calling for record lows that could even be some of the coldest conditions our region has seen in decades.
When expecting sub-zero temperatures, it’s a good time to remember the importance of monitoring energy use. Your monthly utilities bill reflects your home’s electric and gas use – the more energy-efficient, the lower the bill. During colder months, energy use is much higher. This is especially true when we experience a cold snap, which leads to our first efficiency tip.
If you usually have your thermostat set higher during mild-to-warm days, it’s a good idea to save energy by lowering it during a cold snap. Heating systems work overtime during extreme cold. By dropping the thermostat a few degrees it will help your system maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. You might have to wear a sweater to offset the change.
Consider investing in a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. We even offer a $50 rebate for qualifying models.
Use the warmer days before the cold weather to caulk or weatherstrip doors and windows. Don’t let money escape through leaky gaps around your home. Air sealing a home helps all year by keeping warm air inside during the winter, and hot air outside during the summer.
Dirty or clogged air filters add stress to a heating system. During cold weather a furnace is already working around the clock. Help it breathe by swapping out the air filter every 1-3 months.
If the sun is peeking out of the clouds, open curtains and blinds to take advantage of natural heat from south-facing windows.
If you’re concerned about frozen pipes, open cabinet doors with access to plumbing especially if they are against an exterior wall. The air that heats your home will help keep those pipes warm. You can also purchase affordable pipe insulation from a local hardware store that easily fits around the water lines for added protection.
Letting a faucet drip can also protect exposed pipes. To avoid waste, catch the dripping water in a bucket and save it for another purpose.
Only use proper heating systems or small appliances made to heat a home. Do not use ovens, stoves or barbecue grills. These devices can be fire and carbon monoxide hazards.
Only use a furnace or space heater (follow manufacturer’s safety guidelines when using space heaters) for extra warmth.
Energy use can be tracked using tools on our website under My Account. You can also find information about assistance programs for paying utility bills and a full explanation of utilities rates.
Even if you might not trust every forecast, take it from the three squirrels, pigeon and bunny I saw purchasing parkas – they were adamant that the December tradition of subzero temperatures is nearly upon us. Implementing the above tips to monitor and manage your energy consumption will help you in the colder months ahead.