COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)–October 2 marks National Energy Efficiency Day, and Columbia Gas of Ohio is reminding customers that small changes around their homes can result in significant energy savings during the colder months ahead.
Maintain Your Furnace: Schedule your annual furnace tune-up, ideally before the first cold weather arrives. A licensed HVAC technician can ensure your furnace is clean and safe before its season-long workout. Remember to change filters following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Adjust the Thermostat: Save energy on cooler days by setting the thermostat to around 68 degrees Fahrenheit while you are awake and lowering it while you are asleep or away from home. Smart and programmable thermostats can help you schedule temperature adjustments. Leave your curtains and blinds open on sunny days to use natural light as a source of heat during the day.
Save on Water: Do not set your water heater temperature higher than 120 degrees to help save energy and avoid scalding. When using the dishwasher, opt for the short cycle and turn off the drying cycle when possible.
Seal Cracks and Leaks: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, fixing leaks around the house can reduce energy expenses by five to 30 percent. Spending a day caulking or weatherstripping your windows and doors will help seal air leaks, which may be significant energy drains.
Buy ENERGY STAR® Products: Look for ENERGY STAR labels when purchasing new appliances. These products have been certified as high-efficiency and low-energy, consuming up to 65 percent less energy than non-certified alternatives.
For room-by-room suggestions on how to use energy more efficiently, customers can visit columbiagasohio.com/energy-efficiency.
Columbia Gas of Ohio’s WarmChoice program provides qualified customers with free weatherization services. This year-round service includes a home energy inspection with safety checks on natural gas appliances and energy efficiency upgrades.
As a reminder, customers who smell the rotten-egg-like odor of natural gas should stop, leave the area, and call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077 from a safe location.