GRU offers tips to conserve energy and manage heating costs

Press release from Gainesville Regional Utilities

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – With the coldest weekend in more than 15 years forecast for Florida and overnight temperatures expected to fall into the low 20s, GRU encourages customers to take steps to stay warm while safely managing energy use and saving on heating costs.

Reduce Thermostat Use

• Set your thermostat to 68°F or lower with the fan set to “Auto.” 
• Adjust the thermostat settings gradually. Raising it by only one or two degrees at a time helps avoid activating heat strips and keeps energy costs down. 
• Wear warm clothing indoors and out.
• Open curtains and blinds during the day to warm your home with natural sunlight; close them at night to hold in warmth. 
• If you are away from home, consider lowering the temperature to around 65°F.

Heat People, Not Houses

• Use heated blankets and space heaters. Plug them directly into wall outlets, not extension cords or power strips, and keep them away from curtains and furniture.
• Reverse your ceiling fan to run clockwise, which will push warm air down into the living space. 
• If using a wood-burning fireplace, ensure the flue is open and the safety screen is in place. Do not leave a fire or hot embers unattended. 
• Close garage doors and seal drafts around doors and windows to prevent heat loss.
• Never use ovens, grills, or outdoor heaters to warm indoor spaces.

Additional Energy Conservation Tips (best applied between 6 a.m.-9 a.m. and 6 p.m.-9 p.m., when energy usage is highest)

• Postpone charging electric vehicles and other high-draw equipment during extreme cold, when feasible.
• Limit hot water use by shortening showers and spacing out laundry or dishwashing, when possible.

For more energy saving tips and safety information, visit www.gru.com/winter.