Tips on staying warm during frigid weather

Last week’s bitterly cold weather is a great reminder for residents to take steps to manage their energy use, which can minimize the impact of frigid temperatures on utility bills and deliver savings year-round.

Electric- and natural gas-powered heating systems are vital during the winter, which is why Georgia utilities have longstanding policies to not disconnect service when temperatures fall below 32 degrees — even for customers behind on paying their bills.

Here are some tips and tricks from Georgia Power, Atlanta Gas Light and Georgia’s electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) on how to ensure your home stays warm and efficient when temperatures drop.

Turn down your thermostat

Georgia utilities recommend lowering your home thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during frigid weather. A lower temperature will put less strain on your home heating system, reducing the chance of a malfunction during deep freezes.

“Heating the home is the largest energy use, so using warm clothing indoors and a lower thermostat are the most effective ways to minimize energy bills,” an EMC spokesperson said.

Pay outstanding bills

The Georgia Public Service Commission prohibits power and gas utilities from disconnecting service when temperatures are projected to fall below 32 degrees. That amnesty period lasts 24 hours and will expire when temperatures remain above freezing for more than a day.

While it can be a much-needed reprieve for customers behind on their bills, homeowners shouldn’t rely on it during the winter. “We encourage customers to pay any past due balances or make payment arrangements to ensure continuous connection once temperatures rise,” a Gas South spokesperson said.

Check your insulation

A poorly insulated home puts additional strain on your heating system, allowing valuable warmth to leak outside.

Georgia utilities recommend checking the weather stripping around doors and windows for gaps, and homeowners with attics can consider adding more insulation to better trap heat.

Check on your furnace

Homeowners should know where their home furnace and meters are located.

Georgia Power recommends changing air filters once a month and pleated filters every three months. Gas South advises customers to keep their meter visible and routinely check it for damage.

Report any issues

Georgia utilities constantly monitor for blackouts and service disruptions during weather events, and they all encourage homeowners to promptly report any issues they see.

■ Atlanta Gas Light: 770-9074231 (within metro Atlanta) or 877-427-4321

■ Georgia Natural Gas: Dial 811 or 800-282-7411

■ Georgia Power: 888-891-0938 ■ Find the phone number for your Georgia EMC at georgiaemc. com/page/GeorgiasEMCs.

JOHN KIM/CNET/TMS FILE Georgia utilities recommend a thermostat setting of no warmer than 68 during cold weather. It saves money and puts less strain on your equipment. Too low? Wearing warm clothing inside helps.