As winter settles in across California, residents are bracing for the colder temperatures by warming their homes, which often leads to increased energy usage and higher natural gas bills. However, SoCalGas is offering several practical tips to help their customers manage and reduce their heating costs during the chillier months.
One of the primary ways to cut costs is by addressing the efficiency of home heating systems. SoCalGas suggests having air ducts tested for leaks. Properly sealed and repaired ducts can save homeowners up to 30% on their heating and cooling costs, making a significant impact on monthly energy bills.
Another effective method is adjusting the thermostat. Lowering your furnace thermostat by five to eight degrees, while ensuring it doesn’t affect personal health, can result in up to a 10% savings in heating costs. This small adjustment not only conserves energy but also eases the workload on your heating system.
Bathroom habits also play a role in energy consumption. Taking shorter hot showers can markedly decrease how much hot water your household uses, thereby reducing the demand on your water heater and ultimately saving on gas.
Additionally, SoCalGas is currently offering an enhanced rebate program that rewards customers for purchasing energy-efficient appliances. Through November 30, 2024, residential and multifamily customers can receive 50% more in rebates for eligible appliances. This initiative not only promotes energy conservation but also provides financial incentives for making environmentally friendly choices.
Regular maintenance of heating systems can also lead to cost savings. Cleaning or replacing furnace filters as recommended by the manufacturer helps maintain the efficiency of the furnace, ensuring it operates optimally and consumes less energy.
To further prevent heat loss and maximize efficiency, installing proper caulking and weather-stripping around doors and windows can save approximately 10 to 15% on heating bills. Additionally, repairing leaky faucets and pipes can contribute to lowered natural gas consumption by reducing the unnecessary production of hot water.
These steps, while simple, can have a substantial effect on reducing natural gas use and managing heating costs during the winter. SoCalGas emphasizes the variability in potential savings, as it highly depends on individual circumstances.
For more detailed information, tips, and resources on how to effectively reduce energy consumption and save on natural gas bills this winter, customers are encouraged to visit the SoCalGas “Stay Safe and Save This Winter” webpage. With these strategies, Californians can enjoy a warm home without the worry of steep energy bills.
