Southwest Gas Encourages Home Weatherization

Las Vegas, Nev. - Southwest Gas reminds homeowners that simple weatherization measures taken today can help them save on their energy bills during the upcoming winter heating season. For example, using caulk and weather-stripping around doors and windows to increase insulation and replacing air filters to improve airflow help to reduce energy use and cost.

Southwest Gas also reminds homeowners that to prepare for the heating season, a routine furnace inspection by a licensed heating contractor can ensure its safe and efficient operation; and, installing a programmable thermostat and setting it between 65-68 degrees during the winter months, health permitting, while at home is recommended. It is estimated that for each degree the thermostat is lowered, two percent can be saved in the amount of the heating bill.

Additional steps to help keep warm air inside the home include closing the fireplace damper as code allows in your area; limiting the use of exhaust fans; and, opening blinds and drapes during the day to let the sun warm rooms and closing them at night to keep the warmth from escaping through windows. Also, homeowners can save water and energy by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, and operating dishwashers and clothes washers when full.

Contact a Southwest Gas Energy Specialist at 1-800-OK-GAS-OK (1-800-654-2765), or log onto www.swgas.com/energysavingtips for more information on home energy efficiency or high-efficiency natural gas appliances.

Southwest Gas provides natural gas service to more than 1.8 million customers in parts of Arizona, California and Nevada.