Nolin RECC is reminding residents of actions they can take to save on energy bills when winter weather puts extra demand on your utility bill.
“Setting the temperature down a couple of degrees in our home actually really makes a huge difference because those heating systems take so much energy, but when those heating units are working overtime in really cold temperatures just a simple adjustment to our habits can really help our system handle the load,” said Nolin RECC Manager of Communications Sarah Fellows.
She says customers can reduce demand on the electric grid by moving certain activities to “off-peak times.”
“Peak demand times in the winter are typically in the morning (6 to 10 a.m.) and around dinner time (4 to 7 p.m.), so simple things like setting the dishwasher or dryer to run overnight, or cooking in a toaster oven instead of the stove can help,” Fellows said.
Other winter energy reduction tips include:
– Cover and repair windows
– Check and replace central heating filters regularly
– Make energy efficient upgrades around your home
– Program or adjust your thermostat – avoid “emergency” or “auxiliary” mode
– Use your ceiling fan (counterclockwise) to keep warm air moving
Customers should also prepare for possible power outages that can result from windy and icy conditions. Plan ahead in order to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
“Having a back-up plan for necessary medical equipment is really important,” Fellows said. “If you or someone you love needs a device that runs on power, it’s crucial to talk with your doctor about your options for keeping it running during an outage.”
Find Nolin RECC on Facebook for more winter safety tips and information on outages.