By K.D. Norris
With another Great Lakes winter already upon West Michigan, and the official beginning of the season coming next week on Dec. 21, cold temperatures are already impacting local households.
So, Consumers Energy recently announced 10 safety and savings tips to help Michiganders conquer winter weather.
“Following these simple yet important tips can help ensure Michigan residents remain safe during the heating season and save money on energy bills,” according to the statement.
First, and maybe foremost in some households, help is available for those finding it difficult to pay energy bills. Consumers Energy this fall gave $12 million to help households and small businesses with their energy bills, according to the statement. Contact 2-1-1 to find out what resources within your community are available to help with energy, housing, transportation and other needs.
Energy savings opportunities
Consumers Energy is offering free smart thermostats to households and small businesses to help them reduce costs. Smart thermostats can help customers save 10 percent or more on energy bills, reduce energy waste and help the electric grid by reducing energy use during times when demand for energy is highest, according to the statement.
The free thermostats are available to businesses that Consumers Energy serves. Businesses can see if they qualify at ConsumersEnergy.com/marketplace, where they can also purchase other energy-saving products. Residential customers can see if they qualify by visiting ConsumersEnergyStore.com.
Other cost-saving tips include: change your furnace filter monthly during winter months, especially with pets in the home; seal air leaks around windows and doors coming into your home with weather stripping and caulk; let drapes hang loose but make sure they don’t block heat registers and air-return ducts, and close registers/ducts in unused rooms.
Also, if working/learning from home due to COVID-19, regularly unplug electronic devices when not in use, or use a smart power strip. Devices that continue to draw power when they appear to be turned off can cost up to $200 annually in wasted energy, according to Consumers Energy.
Heating safety advice
Consumers Energy recommends households install an audible UL listed carbon monoxide alarm. Poisonings from this colorless, odorless toxic gas are most prevalent in the winter when furnaces are operational, and doors and windows are shut, according to the statement.
In addition, make sure furnaces are operating efficiently and safely by having them inspected and tuned by a qualified professional annually; keep flammable materials such as clothing and boxes well away from the furnace; keep space heaters away from curtains, furniture, clothing and other flammable materials; and unplug space heaters before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Also, in the category if “strongly recommends,” never use a stovetop or oven or charcoal grill to heat your home; and never use a generator inside a home, basement or garage — keep them outdoors at least 25 feet from the home.
