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Prepare for Cold Weather with Piedmont Natural Gas

As frigid temperatures sweep across the Southeast, utilities like Piedmont Natural Gas are stepping up to help residents manage their energy costs. With heating systems working overtime during winter, many customers may find their energy bills rising significantly. To combat this, Piedmont is sharing vital tips and resources aimed at helping homeowners stay warm without breaking the bank.

Tips for Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

1. Adjust Your Thermostat

One of the simplest ways to save energy is to lower your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. Additionally, consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices help reduce energy consumption while you're asleep or away from home, automatically adjusting the temperature based on your preferences.

2. Utilize Natural Heat

On sunny winter days, take advantage of the sun's warmth by opening blinds and drapes. This allows sunlight to naturally heat your living space. Conversely, ensure that you close them at night to keep the warmth trapped inside and enhance your home's insulation.

3. Maintain Your HVAC System

Regular maintenance is critical for energy efficiency. Changing air filters regularly ensures that your heating system operates efficiently, preventing excess energy consumption caused by blockages and dirt accumulation.

4. Manage Water Heating

Setting your water heater to an optimal temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit not only preserves energy but also ensures safety. For those looking to upgrade, on-demand or tankless water heaters offer a modern solution, heating water only as needed and further reducing energy usage.

5. Seal Openings and Cracks

Prevent heat loss by sealing any gaps and cracks around windows and doors. Skills such as caulking and weather stripping can save homeowners between 10% to 20% on heating and cooling bills. This small investment can provide significant long-term benefits.

6. Adjust Ceiling Fans

Run your ceiling fans in a clockwise direction during winter. This action circulates warm air that naturally rises back down into your living spaces, enhancing comfort without additional heating.

Tools for Tracking Energy Use

Piedmont Natural Gas offers several online tools for customers to monitor their energy usage and identify areas for improvement. Users can view their gas usage history, analyze monthly trends, and utilize calculators for appliances like water heaters and dryers to estimate their annual energy costs. These insights can empower homeowners to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.

Level Payment Program

For added convenience, Piedmont’s Equal Payment Plan (EPP) helps stabilize budget monthly payments. Instead of fluctuating bills, customers can enroll to pay a consistent monthly amount based on their estimated annual usage. This initiative is particularly useful for families looking to avoid seasonal billing surprises.

Financial Assistance Programs

In addition to energy-saving tips, Piedmont Natural Gas has programs like Share the Warmth, which provides financial assistance to families struggling with utility costs. Local agencies manage these funds to ensure that support reaches those in need, regardless of their energy provider. Customers can also look into the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for additional support in managing their home energy expenses.

For more detailed information regarding energy savings, enrollment in assistance programs, and winter bill management, customers are encouraged to visit Piedmont Natural Gas’s website. As winter approaches, taking proactive measures can help ensure that you remain comfortable without incurring hefty energy bills.