The weather has turned cold and now’s the time to think about winter energy usage.  All of the items listed below are worked overtime this time of year due to lower temperatures, less daylight and holiday entertaining.

PGE recently published some solutions that may help keep energy usage down.  Good for the environment and good for you wallet!  Here’s a list of common triggers and ways to combat them.

Heating

Set thermostat to 68°, lowering it to 60° at bedtime or when you’re away

Check furnace filters monthly and clean or replace as needed

Hot water

Set your water heater to 120°

Wash laundry in cold water when possible

Install a high-performance showerhead

Lighting

Switch from incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs

Replace traditional holiday lights with LED strands

Holiday cooking

Use the microwave when possible

Don’t preheat the over unless precision is critical

Learn more at portlandgeneral.com/highbillhelp

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