As Mississippians begin to transition from hot summer weather to cooler temperatures, Atmos Energy is offering tips to help residents save money and conserve energy during the winter months.
While preparing for winter, using energy wisely and making a few household changes can make a difference in how much you spend on natural gas and other energy bills.
Colder weather tends to cause an uptick in the amount of natural gas households use. To save energy and money, Atmos Energy is offering the following tips:
- Lower your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and 58 degrees when you are away from home.
- Reduce your shower and bath time. Showering and bathing can account for 40 percent of your home’s hot water use.
- Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees. Water heating accounts for as much as 25 percent of the energy consumed in your home.
- Do not use a pool heater. Instead, run your pool pump during the coldest part of the day to circulate the water and prevent freezing.
- Operate your clothes washer, dryer, and dishwasher only when fully loaded.
- Unless a fire is burning, close your fireplace damper to prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney.
Atmos Energy is also offering rebates for high-efficiency natural gas appliances, energy-saving devices, and weatherization upgrades for customers in Mississippi.
Those whose natural gas services have lapsed for any reason and need a reconnection of services are urged to contact Atmos Energy to schedule an appointment before cold weather sets in.
The Atmos Energy customer service team is available at (888) 286.6700, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., or online at all times.
