Chester, VA – In recognition of National Energy Efficiency Day on Oct. 2, Columbia Gas of Virginia is reminding customers that small changes around their homes can result in big energy savings during the colder months ahead.
“Using energy more efficiently isn’t only the right thing to do—it can also save our customers money while keeping them warm and safe at home,” said Columbia Gas of Virginia President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Montague. “We offer a variety of programs to help ensure they have access to affordable energy year-round, with the added benefit of reducing their carbon footprint.”
Available Energy Efficiency Programs
The Online Energy Audit Program offers residential customers an opportunity to learn more about how their home uses energy. Customers receive personalized recommendations for saving money and reducing their energy usage. Once they complete the audit, qualifying customers have the opportunity to receive a free energy efficiency kit.
The Energy Efficiency Rebates Program offers Columbia Gas residential customers the opportunity to apply for rebates to help offset the cost of higher efficiency equipment when replacing older, less efficient equipment. Rebate amounts include:
- $1 off per square foot on high efficiency windows, doors and skylights
- $50 off an ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat
- Up to $250 off a high efficiency natural gas water heater
- Up to $400 off a high efficiency natural gas furnace
- $100 off a high efficiency direct vent gas fireplace
Additional energy saving tips:
- Maintain your furnace: Schedule your annual furnace tune-up, ideally before cold weather arrives. A licensed HVAC technician can make sure your furnace is clean and safe before its season-long workout. Remember to change filters following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Adjust the thermostat: Save energy on cooler days by setting the thermostat to around 68 degrees Fahrenheit while you are awake and setting it lower while you are asleep or away from home. Programmable thermostats can help you schedule temperature adjustments. Leave your curtains and blinds open on sunny days to use natural light as a source of heat during the day.
- Save on water: Do not set your water heater temperature higher than 120 degrees to help save energy and avoid scalding. When using the dishwasher, opt for the short cycle and turn off the drying cycle when possible.
- Seal cracks and leaks: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, fixing leaks around the house can reduce energy expenses by five to 30 percent. Spending a day caulking or weatherstripping your windows and doors will help seal air leaks, which may be significant energy drains.
For more information on our energy efficiency programs, as well as more home energy tips, visit our website at www.columbiagasva.com/energy-efficiency.
