As winter approaches and temperatures drop, it's crucial to consider our energy bills. Small adjustments can lead to significant savings. In this article, we'll explore two easy steps to save money and other energy-saving tips.
Save Big on Energy Bills This Winter with Simple Steps
Thermostat Adjustments
When leaving the house, dropping the thermostat by 5 to 8 degrees is a simple yet effective way to save energy. This small change can make a big difference in your energy consumption. For example, if you leave your house at 70 degrees and lower it to 62 degrees, you can save a significant amount on heating costs over time. It's a small sacrifice that pays off in the long run.Another aspect of thermostat savings is remembering to change the filters as recommended by the manufacturer. A clean filter allows the heating system to work more efficiently, reducing energy usage. By regularly changing the filters, you can ensure that your heating system is running at its best and not wasting energy.Washing and Drying
Using cold water for your laundry loads is a quick and easy way to save energy. Hot water requires more energy to heat, so by using cold water, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption. Additionally, when drying your clothes, make sure to do full loads and not over dry them. This not only saves energy but also helps prolong the life of your dryer. After each load, don't forget to replace the filter in your dryer to keep it running smoothly.Shower Head and Faucet Replacements
Replacing your shower head and faucets with low flow alternatives is another great way to save water and energy. Low flow fixtures use less water without sacrificing performance. For instance, a low flow shower head can reduce water usage by up to 50% while still providing a satisfying shower experience. The same goes for faucets. By installing low flow faucets, you can save water and reduce your energy bill.SoCalGas offers a "Ways to Save" tool on their website that allows anyone to create a profile and get a customized savings report for their home. This tool provides valuable insights and suggestions on how to save energy and money.Payment Plans and Financial Assistance
Once you receive your energy bill, there are various payment plans and financial assistance options available. Customers can choose to pay an average amount throughout the year, spreading out the cost and reducing the burden in winter. This helps make energy bills more manageable and ensures that you don't face a large bill all at once.To learn more about SoCalGas' various resources and save on your energy bill this winter, visit www.socalgas.com/winter.