LANSING, IM — Bitter cold air is settling into mid-Michigan this weekend. Consumers Energy says by making some simple changes you can stay warm and help prevent your heating bill from going sky high.
The company says one of the easiest ways to save is by installing a programmable smart thermostat now that the heating season is starting. Doing so could save as much as 20 percent on heating costs. Customers typically save 1 percent to 3 percent for every degree they dial down their thermostat.
“Simply making a few small meaningful changes can make a big difference for your wallet, without sacrificing your comfort,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s vice president of customer experience. “We want to be sure our customers stay safe and warm this winter.”
Other cost saving tips include:
- Have your heating system tuned up and inspected by a service professional and replace your furnace filter. If you furnace can breathe more easily it will use less energy.
- Make sure your attic, basement, garage, and exterior doors are closed to prevent cold drafts from getting in and heat from getting out. A gap of just one-eighth of an inch around your windows or doors is like having a softball size hole in them, allowing cold air in and making your furnace work harder to accommodate for that extra cold air.
- Turn on your ceiling fan. Ceiling fans set at a slow speed can push warm air away that rises to the ceiling and move it around the room without creating a chilling breeze.
- When it comes to savings on heating your water, take a shower instead of a bath which uses less hot water.
- Set your water heater temperature at 120 degrees. By lowering the temperature, you can cut water heating bills without sacrificing comfort.
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