Extreme winter weather continues through this week. Even just a few days of extremely cold weather can make your furnace work harder and run longer, which will drive up your energy usage and ultimately increase your bill.
There are steps you can take now so you don’t see as big of an impact on your next bill:
- Adjust your thermostat to a comfortable level and lower it a few degrees at night or when you’re away. Remember – the bigger the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the higher your energy costs.
- Avoid using space heaters – they use a lot of electricity and run up your bill. If you must use one, heat only the room you’re using and keep doors and windows closed to prevent heat loss. Turn it off when you are done or leave the room.
- Seal gaps around windows and doors, or use window film, to keep warm air in and cold air out.
- Use draft stoppers or rolled-up towels against doors and windows.
- Close vents to rooms you aren’t using to redirect your heat to other rooms.
When temperatures drop to dangerous levels, it’s important that you stay safe. Protect yourself, family and friends year-round with these natural gas safety tips:
- If someone you know needs a warm place to stay, visit our list of warming centers.
- Carbon monoxide is a hazardous, odorless gas that may be emitted by appliances not working or ventilated properly. Install carbon monoxide detectors to protect everyone inside.
- If you smell or suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately. Once you are in a safe place, call 911 and then call our Gas Leak Hotline at (800) 947-5000. This is a free service provided by DTE for our customers, 24/7.
For more tips on how to save money and stay safe this winter, visit dteenergy.com/staywarm.