Delmarva Power provides tips to save electricity, gas and money

It may be early in the fall season, but Delmarva Power says now is the best time for customers to take the necessary steps to save electricity, natural gas and money this winter. By following a few simple tips and making a few easy energy efficiency improvements, customers could save 20 percent or more on their winter heating bills. 

Keep it sealed. A drafty house lets warm air escape and is much more costly to keep warm – especially during cooler weather. Use caulking around doors, windows and any openings for utility services. Locks on your windows can make them tighter and more resistant to drafts. Keep your fireplace damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.

Upgrade insulation. Insulating a home can significantly reduce heating costs while increasing comfort. Reducing air leaks – in floors, walls, ceilings, ducts, fireplaces, doors, windows and vents, and around plumbing – could cut 10 percent from an average household's monthly energy bill.

Check ducts for air leaks. Look for joints that should be connected but have separated. Leaky ductwork can increase a utility bill significantly.

Warm up the system. Service the heating system at the beginning of each heating season. A well-maintained system will last longer, operate more efficiently and save money. The potential for carbon monoxide poisoning is always an elevated possibility if home heating equipment isn’t properly tested, serviced and maintained.

Manage the thermostat. Keep thermostats set at a constant, comfortable level. It is possible to save about 2 percent on a heating bill for every degree the thermostat is lowered. Be prepared for cooler weather. Remove screens and air conditioners from windows and install storm windows. 

Shorter days and longer lights. Don’t forget to adjust outdoor lighting timers as the night grows longer.

Never operate a generator indoors. If a generator is used during a winter power outage, please follow the manufacturer’s operating and safety instructions. Improper use of a generator can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution widespread system outages or even fatalities.

Looking for customized solutions to help save energy and money? To schedule an appointment with an energy advisor, contact Delmarva Power’s customer service department. A Delmarva Power Energy Advisor will visit the home, provide a personal energy assessment and offer energy-efficient upgrades on the spot that could save up to 20 percent on a home’smonthly energy bill. For more information, go to www.delmarva.com or call 800-375-7117.

Delmarva Power is one call away:
If a natural gas leak is suspected, call the Delmarva Power natural gas emergency hotline a: 302-454-0317. To report downed power lines, call 800-898-8042. Always call 811 before digging.