October 2 marks National Energy Efficiency Day, and Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania reminds customers that they can enjoy energy savings during the upcoming colder months by taking advantage of the company’s energy-efficiency programs and following easy energy-saving tips for their homes.
The company’s WarmWise® energy efficiency programs offer customers solutions to increase their homes’ energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and save money on their natural gas bills. The WarmWise offerings include:
- WarmWise Low Income Usage Reduction Program (LIURP) – LIURP is a weatherization program that helps income-eligible customers identify ways to save energy and money and make needed improvements – for free. It’s designed for customers who need to reduce their natural gas usage but can’t afford to make improvements.
- WarmWise Audits & Rebates – If customers are income-eligible and do not qualify for WarmWise LIURP, they can get a free home energy audit, an energy efficiency plan, and instant rebates toward installation of recommended energy-efficiency measures, such as insulation, air sealing, gas water tank, or smart thermostats. Audits are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- WarmWise Online Energy Audit & Kit Program – All customers, regardless of income, can complete our free online home energy audit for personalized recommendations on how to reduce their home’s energy usage and to save money. Customers may be eligible to receive free energy efficiency kits to kick start their savings, simply by completing the audit.
- WarmWise Energy Efficiency Rebates Program – Most customers can get cash back when they upgrade to any ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat or qualifying ENERGY STAR certified furnace, boiler, combi boiler, tankless water heater or heating appliance. Customers can apply for rebates online or via the mail.
Customers also may save even more by following these practical energy-efficiency tips for their homes:
- Maintain your furnace: Schedule an annual furnace tune-up, ideally before the first cold weather arrives. A licensed HVAC technician can make sure 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 setting it lower while you are asleep or away from home. 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.
Columbia Gas also offers assistance programs that provide flexible payment options, budget plans and income-eligible financial support. To
find out more about the resources available to help customers manage their energy bills and pay down past due balances, call us at 1-888-460-4332 or visit columbiagaspa.com/assistance.
