Winter is coming. That means colder temperatures, shorter days and higher-than-normal energy bills.
The PUD has not raised rates for three years, but that doesn’t mean bill shock can’t happen, especially this time of year with so many of us still working and learning from home. Heating our homes throughout the day can double customers’ heating hours and translate to bills that look a lot higher than a year ago.
An additional challenge is this winter’s forecast. The National Weather Service is forecasting La Nina conditions for the Puget Sound region this winter. That means colder and wetter weather is coming and could be the norm.
Fortunately, your PUD is here to help! We know that this year has been challenging for everyone and the PUD would like to help you lower your winter bills. In that spirit, here are some tips for conserving energy during cold weather:
No cost tips
A simple way to reduce energy usage is heating occupied rooms only. If you have baseboard or wall heating be sure and turn down thermostats in any unused rooms and close the door. The same goes for lighting. Lights should be turned off any in rooms not being used.
We recommend layering up and turning down the thermostat. During the day, set your thermostat at 68 degrees. At night or when away, drop your thermostat to 55 to save as much as 10% on your heating costs. Got a smart thermostat? Set it at these temps to ensure even and efficient heating throughout the day and night.
Low cost tips
Adding or repairing the weather-stripping on your windows and doors can significantly reduce heat loss and drafts.
Help your furnace breathe by replacing air filters. Make sure to check the air filters in an electric furnace every month. By replacing dirty filters, you can improve air quality as well as save energy.
Smart investing
Take advantage of instant rebates to upgrade heating. For customers with electrically heated homes, the PUD offers instant rebates to help pay for eligible heat pumps, which offer efficient heating in the winter – and cooling in the summer. Customers who upgrade their heating systems can save up to 50 percent on winter heating bills.
Through Dec. 31, the PUD is offering enhanced rebates of an extra $500 for a ducted heat pump and an extra $400 for ductless heat pump upgrades. Customers must have electric heat as a primary heating source and work must be completed by a PUD Registered Trade Ally to qualify. For more information and eligibility requirements on these incentives, visit snopud.com/heating.
If you find you are struggling with your winter bills, be sure to call your PUD. We have ways to help! To learn more about incentives on conservation products, visit marketplace.snopud.com.
Learn, win and save
PUD customers who analyze their home energy use with the PUD’s free online Home Energy Profile tool can enter to win $200 off their PUD bill. The Home Energy Profile tool takes less than 5 minutes to complete and creates a report with energy-saving tips specific to customers’ home. Visit snopud.com/energyprofile. Entry period ends on Nov. 30.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
