As colder temperatures arrive, the National Public Gas Agency (NPGA) encourages natural gas consumers to winterize their homes to be as efficient as possible with their natural gas usage.
Natural gas commodity prices are down about 40 percent this year compared to a year ago due mainly to the economic recession and a high volume of natural in storage. While lower commodity prices are good news for customers, winterizing your home can help you save even more on your natural gas bill.
NPGA encourages homeowners to be proactive by implementing some low cost measures now to reduce natural gas usage during the colder months. Below are some helpful tips to winterize your home and lower your natural gas bill:
Inspect windows and doors for drafts and apply or replace caulk to insulate and repair cracks in walls and around doors and windows;
Set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature and dress in layers. Lower it a few degrees before leaving the house or going to bed. If possible, use a programmable thermostat to automatically control your home’s temperature;
Seal leaks in furnace air ducts;
Change or clean air filters monthly;
Keep window blinds, shades and draperies open during the day to allow sunlight to warm your home. Close them at night for added insulation;
Set ceiling fans to run clockwise, drawing air up and keeping warm air circulating;
Lower your natural gas water heater to 115 or 120 degrees;
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program may be available to help customers that are struggling paying their heating bill. Contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for more information on this federal program and other ways to cut heating costs.