For Immediate Release: September 7, 2007

For More Information:
Bob Lazaro, PEC, Director of Communications
(c) 540.454.2742

(September 7, 2007 - Warrenton, VA) While the winter weather is still some time away, the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is sharing winter energy savings tips to help assist residents and businesses conserve electricity.

• During the heating season, keep the draperies and shades on your south facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.
• Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable when home.
• By resetting your programmable thermostat from 72 degrees to 65 degrees for eight hours a day (for instance, while no one is home or while everyone is tucked in bed) you can cut your heating bill by up to 10 percent.
• Weatherize your home-caulk and weather-strip any doors and windows that leak air.
• Properly maintain and clean heating equipment.
• Replace furnace filters regularly.
• Check the insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawl spaces to see if it meets the levels recommended for your area.