SETTING THERMOSTATS

SDN STAFF REPORT

This weekend will see some of the coldest temperatures of the year and 4-County Electric Power Association has provided tips for customers to weather frigid conditions while keeping mindful of electric bills.

While it may be tempting to turn up the thermostat when it gets cold, even a few degrees difference in setting can mean a serious jump in power usage.

4-County says the recommended setting for most central heating units is 6870 degrees.

For every degree higher, you could increase your electric bill by 3 percent or more.

Another drawback to a higher thermostat setting is the emergency or auxiliary strip heat, which are made up of electric elements that get hot and help the heat pump put out hotter air. These will come on when the thermostat is raised quickly or set at a high temperature.

However, energy consumption is much higher when the heat strips are in use and that can lead to a much higher bill than usual. Many homes, especially mobile homes, have some type of strip heating as their only source of heat and can contribute to a higher-than-expected bill.

SPACE HEATERS

Many people use space heaters to supplement their main heating source or as their only heat source.

Using portable heaters can also be costly. Even small space heaters, especially if they use resistance heat -like the strip heat on a heat pump or electric furnacewill use more electricity and they can add to your bill.

If used improperly they can be fire hazards. It is important to use space heaters wisely and safely.

4-County also provided tips to be more energy efficient as the temperature drops:

◆ Keep the thermostat setting as low as possible. Again, every degree above 68 can increase your bill 3 percent or more.

◆ Check fireplaces. If it is not in use, make sure the damper is closed.

◆ Have the central heat serviced regularly and don’t forget to change the filters. Dirty filters can increase heating costs.

◆ Be sure to plug leaks. Use weather stripping, caulk or foam insulation to fill in those leaks around windows, doors or under sinks where the pipes go into the wall.

◆ Use the sun. During the day, leave blinds or curtains open, especially on windows that face the sun. Close them at night to retain the heat.

◆ Dress warmly. Put on some extra layers of loose fitting clothing. An extra sweater means you can stay warm without cranking up the heat.