Even though it doesn’t really feel like the middle of December, a couple of state organizations are teaming up to provide information about winterizing homes to save money on utility bills.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission are encouraging residents to take action now so that they can be protected when the frigid temperatures do finally arrive.
Secretary of the DEP Patrick McDonald talks about how making some small changes can help reduce energy use and save money this winter.
“Changes minor as setting back your thermostat can make a big difference in your bill. Each degree that your thermostat is lowered can save three percent on heating,” McDonald said. “Programmable thermostats are a cost effective solution and an energy saver because they set back your temperature at designated times. And those are available for as little as $20.”
Other ways to save on utility bills include cleaning registers and radiators regularly as well as weather-stripping and using curtains to let sun in or keep heat in.
More information can be found on the PUC’s consumer information website as well as the website of the U.S. Department of Energy.