SIOUX FALLS South Dakotans are experiencing bitter cold, frigid wind chills and winter storms, conditions when energy demand increases.
Low and no cost energy efficiency actions are tools we can all use to help manage winter energy bills while we keep our homes warm and businesses operating this time of year.
- Check your hot water heaters temperature. When it comes to the temperature setting, make sure its safe and efficient 120 degrees F is where you want to be.
- Wrap hot water tanks and pipe insulation on the first 10 feet of the hot water pipe coming off the tank. Supplies can be purchased at most hardware stores.
- Inspect your windows and doors for air leaks and seal up drafts.
- Change your furnace filter and have your furnace and heating equipment checked to make sure it is working properly.
- Use a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature when away from your home and overnight. Use a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature when away from your home and overnight. Change your thermostat setting during the heating season to the lowest comfortable setting, which is 68F for most people during the day. At night, turn your thermostat back 7-10 degrees.
- Install low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads.
NorthWestern Energy customers concerned about winter energy bills should reach out right away at northwesternenergy.com or 800-245-6977. NorthWestern Energy offers billing and payment options that may help, as well as information about payment assistance programs.
Find more information and energy efficiency resources at www.northwesternenergy.com/billing-payment/ways-to-save/winter-energy-bills.
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