Spring Forward: Safety and Energy Efficiency for the Warmer Months
The first day of Spring is March 19, and with it comes warmer weather and numerous ways to save energy and save on your energy bill. With the kind of weather that requires winter coats and hats mostly behind us, it’s safe to lower the temperature on your natural gas water heater. A lower temperature means less natural gas consumed, and therefore a lower utility bill. The warmer weather also means your natural gas furnace won’t have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable, saving you money on a monthly basis.
Depending on where you live, you might be shutting down your furnace until the next cold season. Make sure to work with a licensed professional to ensure this is done safely as it’s important to make sure this is done right. Also make sure to pay attention to your furnace filters…those filters have been through a full winter heating season, and it’s important to make sure they are in good shape.
If you live in a single-family home or a townhouse, you might be considering starting a garden, planting trees or bushes, or generally updating your landscaping. You certainly picked the right time of year for it! To help ensure that all utility lines are marked before you begin digging, be sure to call 811. Once you call 811, professional locators will be sent to the proposed dig site to mark the approximate location of your lines with paint or flags. It’s fast, free, and important for safe digging. It will only take a few minutes of your time and is a great way to head off any potential accidents.
Calling before you dig is a critical way to keep your property and your community safe. These steps are all great ways to get ready for Spring, save money, and keep yourself and your family safe. Embracing energy-saving practices not only prepares your home for the spring but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective lifestyle. Remember, the transition to warmer seasons is an excellent time to assess and enhance your home’s energy efficiency. By taking some of these steps, you can help ensure your living space is not just comfortable but also environmentally friendly and economical. As spring blossoms, let these energy savings reflect the renewal that the season brings, fostering a home that’s safe, efficient, and ready for the warmer days ahead.