Newsroom@DominionPost.com
In anticipation of extreme cold weather returning next week, Dominion Energy West Virginia is asking its customers to voluntarily turn down thermostats and lower the setting on water heaters if they can do so safely, and for businesses to reduce the use of natural gas for manufacturing or processing if practicable.
Such conservation efforts throughout the coming week will help keep down bills and keep natural gas supplies flowing to all Dominion Energy customers.
“Dominion Energy is prepared to serve our customers reliably during this upcoming period of extreme cold weather, but we also ask customers to conserve where they can do so safely,” said Jonell Carver, director, gas operations.
The simplest way to conserve gas — and save money — is to turn down your thermostat. Customers can save from 10% to 15% on annual heating costs by setting the thermostat at 68 degrees during the day and down to 58 degrees at night, or when the resident is at work or away for an extended period. A programmable thermostat will automatically raise and lower the settings to a preset schedule and eliminate operating the heating system manually. It’s not recommended to turn the system off, especially on very cold days, because the recovery time may negate any savings realized by the setback.
The company recommends that customers consider using other conservation techniques to maintain comfort and safety, such as saving energy by weather-stripping homes and insulating doors and windows. Customers also can block off draft at the bottoms of doors with a rolled-up throw rug or towel. Use this link to learn about additional savings tips: https://www. dominionenergy.com/our-stories/energy-saving-tips-for-every-season.
Energy assistance
Dominion Energy strongly urges customers who believe they will not be able to maintain regular payments or service to log in to www.dominionenergy.com, 24/7; use the Dominion Energy app; or call 1-800-688-4673 between 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekdays, to inquire about energy assistance programs and payment options.
Emergency service
Dominion Energy considers it an emergency if customers smell an odor of gas or if none of their natural gas appliances are working. If there is an odor of natural gas in or around the premises, leave the premises and immediately and then call Dominion Energy, toll-free, at 1-800-934-3187.
Tweet @DominionPostWV
