Quay County Sun - Serving the High Plains

Xcel Energy is offering tips to help customers reduce energy use, save money and stay comfortable when outside temperatures drop.

Some of the easiest tips for the winter months are:

• Installing a smart thermostat, which adjusts the temperature when customers are asleep or away from home. Proper use of a smart thermostat can cut energy bills by almost $180 per year.

• Keeping the thermostat at a moderate setting and wearing warm clothing inside can shave 1% off the total heating bill for every degree the thermostat is set back.

• Replacing or cleaning air filters on heating units every three months helps the heating system work more efficiently, which saves on monthly bills.

• Keeping interior doors open to help warm air circulate more freely helps maintain heat and cooling levels.

• Running a ceiling fan clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling adds comfort and savings. Energy Star-rated ceiling fans offer the best efficiency.

• Turning down the thermostat when the fireplace is being used prevents the fireplace from drawing heat out of the room. Keeping the fireplace flue damper tightly closed when the fireplace is not in use prevents heat loss.

Xcel Energy also has a select group of contractors to help residential customers make their homes more energy efficient.

An expert will identify where cold air is infiltrating the home and make certain adjustments free of charge. Customers can pay for additional services, but there is no obligation to do so.

A list of approved contractors, referred to as “program sponsors,” can be accessed at http://www.xcelenergyefficiency.com.