Following the recent historic cold weather, GRU has received reports of burst pipes in our community. Knowing how to read your water meter can help you quickly spot unusual water use and detect leaks early. Watch this short video to learn how to check your meter and protect your home.
Comfy at 68°
Studies have shown that gradually lowering your thermostat from 72° to 68° has little impact on your comfort but can make a big difference in your monthly utility charges since every degree adds between 1 and 3% to your electric bill.
Clothes and blankets can also can make a huge difference. A sweatshirt can keep you 4° warmer, and a thick blanket is equivalent to between 10 and 15°! That means you can set your thermostat even lower when sleeping, and then gradually increase the temperature in the morning.
Here are a few more cold-weather tips:
- Raise your thermostat one or two degrees at a time to avoid activating expensive emergency heat strips.
- Lower your thermostat when leaving home for 8 hours or more.
- Weather strip doors and caulk windows
- Check your air filter monthly and change when needed.
- Open curtains during the day to let sunlight in and then close them at night.
- Keep your fireplace damper closed when not in use.
- Set the temperature on your hot water heater to 120°.
About our models: Steve and Jenn are longtime GRU employees in the Water/Wastewater Department. They are seen here bundled up with younger daughter Ella.