While we work to keep the power on, your safety is our top priority.
Be proactive—prepare your home and family now! Taking a few simple steps today can help you avoid emergencies.
Heat pumps may run continuously as temperatures drop to maintain comfort since there’s less heat in the outside air. Increased heating demand can also strain electrical systems, causing outages.
- Lower your home’s thermostat to 68 degrees. Your heating system will run as much as necessary to make up the difference between your thermostat’s setting and the outdoor temperature.
- Seal air leaks around windows and exterior doors with caulk and weatherstripping. Air leaks and drafts make your heating system work harder than necessary to keep your home warm.
- Stagger your use of major appliances such as dishwashers, ovens and dryers.
- Start the dishwasher before you go to bed and use smaller countertop appliances like slow cookers and air fryers to save energy.
- Ensure that your heating system is optimized for efficiency with regular maintenance and proper insulation.
- Make sure your furnace filter isn’t clogged and dirty. Replace it as needed.
- Set your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. This can help you save energy and reduce mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes.
- When possible, use cold water to reduce water heating costs.
- Unplug devices when not in use to eliminate unnecessary energy use. Even when turned off, electronics in standby mode consume energy.
Stay safe, stay prepared and always stay #WeatherAware!