Lower Your Home Heating Bill: Tips From PG&E

BAY AREA — If you've checked your most recent PG&E bill, chances are you stifled a scream when you looked at the cost. Homeowners are hit with a double-whammy as the cost for natural gas goes up in the winter precisely when we're turning up the thermostat to stay warm.

If your bill is breaking the budget and you need to take immediate steps to lower it, take a look at these tips from PG&E:

• Lower your thermostat when away: You can save about 2 percent of your heating bill for each degree that you lower the thermostat (if the turndown lasts a good part of the day or night). Turning down the thermostat from 70°F to 65°F, for example, saves about 10 percent.
• Control water temperature: Set your water heater thermostat at 120°F or lower. This way you'll reduce the amount of energy it takes to produce and maintain your hot water by not overheating it.
• Test air ducts for leaks: In a typical house, 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.
• Install proper caulking and weather-stripping: Sealing air leaks around your home and adding insulation can help your home be more comfortable and energy efficient and provide up to a 10 percent savings on your annual energy bills.
• Discount programs: Qualifying customers can apply for a monthly discount. See: Discount Programs Through PG&E: CARE, FERA

Also See:

• New CA Hospital Safety Ratings Released: 2 Get 'F' Grade
• Blue Willow Tea Spot Offers Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstrations
• Path To The Sunset: Photo Of The Day