CAYCE, S.C. (Jan. 27, 2021) – When cold weather hits, energy use often increases. Dominion Energy is providing tips to help customers be more energy efficient while they continue to be comfortable at home this winter.

“Colder temperatures during the winter months can make a big impact on a customer’s electric and natural gas usage and ultimately their bill,” said Ginger Greenway, program manager, energy conservation for Dominion Energy South Carolina. “There are several simple things customers can do around their homes to help conserve energy, and in return, possibly lower their energy bills.”

Customers can manage heating costs by trying these five simple energy-saving tips:

1. Set the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower while at home. Save more by setting the thermostat even lower while sleeping and when away from home. A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically lower the temperature to maximize savings.
2. Check heating and air conditioning filters regularly. Dirty filters not only increase energy usage, they can also damage an HVAC system.
3. Weather-strip doors and caulk around seams, cracks and openings to keep the cold air out. Ensure the home is sealed tight by checking for ductwork leaks or tears. Repair fallen or crushed ductwork with mastic to seal leaks, and duct wrap can be used to insulate ductwork that passes through unconditioned spaces.
4. Adjust drapes and blinds according to the time of day. To benefit from the sun’s natural warmth, keep drapes and blinds open during daylight hours. Close them during the night to reduce the chill from cold windows. Also, insulated or heavy curtains – especially on north-facing windows – may help keep out the cold air.
5. Consider adjusting the water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees. Although many manufacturers set water thermostats at 140 degrees, most households usually only require them to be set at 120 degrees. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines about temperature settings.

Dominion Energy South Carolina also offers programs, subject to certain terms and conditions, to eligible residential electric customers to help decrease energy use:

• EnergyWise Online Savings Store offers discounts on smart thermostats, LED light bulbs, advanced power strips and more.
• Appliance Recycling Program enables customers to receive $50 cash back when recycling full-sized refrigerators or freezers.
• Heating & Cooling Equipment Program allows customers to receive rebates toward the cost of purchasing and installing new Energy Star-qualified central air conditioning systems and heat pumps, as well as making ductwork improvements in existing residences.
• Home Energy Check-up provides free in-home consultations with energy experts to help identify ways to improve a home’s energy efficiency. The program is currently available virtually by video chat or telephone.

Dominion Energy remains committed to finding the options that best fit its customers’ budget and needs. Many assistance options can be conveniently accessed 24/7 through a customer’s online account or Dominion Energy’s mobile app. Options include:

• Payment plans: If a customer is having trouble paying their bill, the company will help them determine the best option for their unique situation. Both short-term payment extensions and long-term payment plans are available. The company is currently offering a special installment plan that spreads past due balances over a six-month period, with no interest charges.
• Payment assistance: Assistance is offered through EnergyShare, which is funded with company contributions, along with donations from customers, employees and retirees. The South Carolina Department of Administration’s Office of Economic Opportunity administers the EnergyShare program through community action agencies. Payment assistance is also offered through state and federal programs, such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The company partners with more than 180 organizations – including 12 community action agencies – to connect customers with available financial assistance, as well as to offer energy-saving tips and easy ways to do business with us. More information is available at DominionEnergySC.com/assistance.

For more ways to save, visit DominionEnergySC.com/save.

About Dominion Energy
More than 7 million customers in 16 states energize their homes and businesses with electricity or natural gas from Dominion Energy (NYSE: D), headquartered in Richmond, Va. The company is committed to sustainable, reliable, affordable and safe energy and to achieving net zero carbon dioxide and methane emissions from its power generation and gas infrastructure operations by 2050. Please visit DominionEnergy.com to learn more.

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