Excelsior EMC wants to give you a heads-up on the next winter excitement coming our way. Cold temperatures are moving in this week, with lows in the teens predicted. Now is a great time to make sure you are winter ready.
CLICK HERE for an updated forecast.
Things to do:
- Ensure your HVAC system is functioning properly and that filters are replaced regularly.
- Do your laundry and run your dishwasher today to be able to postpone non-essential uses of electricity until temperatures return to normal. (Water heaters use 14 percent of a home’s energy.)
- If you drive an electric vehicle, charge it during the middle of the day and delay charging during extreme weather conditions.
- Heat foods at the lowest possible setting and refrain from opening the oven door while baking.
- Set thermostats to 68 degrees or lower and adjust window units accordingly. (Warming and cooling the home accounts for 55 percent of residential energy use)
- Lower your thermostat at night and when you're away from home.
- Open blinds, drapes and curtains to let in warmth from the sun and close them at night to keep out the cold.
- Caulk or weather strip around windows, exterior doors and any gaps.
Take time to check your:
- Pipes: Insulate your pipes.
- Pets: Secure a warm space for your animals.
- People: Check in on friends and neighbors who may need assistance with these precautions.
- Plants: Protect plants that cannot be moved indoors.
- Place of residence: Keep your house safe from electrical fires. Remember to keep space heaters plugged directly into the wall and make sure anything burning can vent exhaust safely. Maintain a minimum distance of 3 feet between your space heaters and anything flammable.
EMC is encouraging members to be aware of energy consumption, prioritize safety, make necessary preparations, and stay tuned for further updates.
