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Keep Winter Bills From Catching You Off Guard

Stay warm and win big with CPU’s energy-saving strategies

Forecasters may be predicting a warmer-than-average winter this year, but that does not mean you should let your guard down—especially when it comes to your utility bill.

Clarksdale Public Utilities encourages customers to stay ahead of the game by taking advantage of its Simple Steps initiative, which includes practical energy-saving strategies designed to keep homes warm and energy bills under control.

“Weather can change fast even during mild winters, and when that cold snap hits, energy use can spike,” said Curtis D. Boschert, CPU general manager. “That is why it is so important to stay ahead of the game with smart, affordable strategies that keep your home comfortable and your energy costs in check.”

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that even small air leaks, such as a dime-sized gap around a door or window, can waste as much energy as leaving a window open several inches all winter. In fact, ENERGY STAR® estimates that up to 30% of the heated air in a home can be lost through those leaks, poor insulation or unsealed ductwork.

By following a few simple strategies, customers can cut down on energy use without sacrificing comfort. Here are CPU’s top tips:

Free Tips to Level Up Your Energy Game

• Keep your thermostat at 68°F when home and awake, and lower it several degrees more while sleeping or away. This simple adjustment can save big bucks on heating costs.
• Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air back down. This helps to redistribute heat and improve comfort, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
• Open blinds during sunny days to let in natural warmth, and use cozy blankets or warm clothing to stay comfortable without touching the thermostat.
• Make sure your air registers are not blocked by furniture, rugs, drapes or other objects in your home. Dust or vacuum them regularly to maintain airflow.
• Use area rugs on bare floors to trap heat and keep your space warmer.
• Turn down your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to save on costs and avoid scalding showers.
• Put that unused humidifier to work. Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 40-60% can make your home feel warmer at lower temperatures and may reduce heating costs by up to 10%.
• Unplug devices to reduce phantom energy use from idle electronics, which can account for 5-10% of your electricity consumption. Use power strips to easily manage electronics.
• Keep your fireplace damper closed when not in use to prevent heat from escaping up the chimney. An open fireplace damper can cause heat loss equivalent to leaving a window open all winter.
• Set the thermostat to 55°F when you will be gone for several days to save energy and protect pipes from freezing.

Low-Cost Tips to Save Even More

• Regularly replace air filters to prevent inefficiency and save on energy. Dirty filters can increase energy use by up to 15% and strain your heating system.
• Install ENERGY STAR® light bulbs, which use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.
• Use weather stripping and caulk to seal air leaks and block drafts, even in the basement and attic, around doors, windows, chimneys, electrical outlets and other potential areas for air leakage. Roll up towels to seal door bottoms as an extra measure.
• Put clear plastic sheets over the inside or outside of your windows to reduce heat loss and increase comfort. Window wrap kits are available at most hardware stores.
• Install a programmable thermostat to optimize your system’s performance.
• Have your heating system serviced once a year so it runs properly and efficiently.

If you are ready to make a bigger investment, long-term upgrades like replacing windows, adding insulation, upgrading your HVAC system or replacing old appliances can drastically improve your home's efficiency and reduce energy costs. Additional tools and tips are available on the DOE’s Energy Saver website.

“We are committed to helping customers reduce waste and manage your energy use,” said Boschert. “Simple Steps is about more than just saving a few dollars—it is about creating lasting habits that improve efficiency and reduce costs over time. We also offer flexible and easy payment options to help you take control of your account and stay on top of energy bills, no matter the season.”

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.