PLAINFIELD, Indiana – With colder weather moving across the Hoosier State, Duke Energy is offering practical advice to help families keep homes warm without inflating utility bills. The utility’s Indiana president, Stan Pinegar, emphasized that small, everyday adjustments can add up to meaningful savings as winter approaches.
Thermostat tips that really work
Duke Energy recommends setting thermostats to the lowest temperature that still feels comfortable. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering the thermostat by one degree for eight hours can shave roughly 1% off heating costs. Over a typical winter month, that modest change can translate into a noticeable reduction on the monthly statement.
Use natural sunlight and block the cold
Opening curtains during daylight hours lets the sun’s rays warm rooms naturally, while closing them at night helps retain that heat. The utility also suggests checking windows and doors for drafts. Simple weatherstripping or caulking can cut heating expenses by 10% to 20%, according to Duke Energy’s own estimates.
Circulate warm air efficiently
Many homeowners forget that ceiling fans can aid heating. By setting the fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed, warm air that rises to the ceiling is pushed back down into living spaces, improving overall comfort without extra energy use.
Why these steps matter for families
“These tips can be put into practice easily and quickly, which makes them ideal for times like this when temperatures drop so significantly almost overnight,” Pinegar said. For families watching tight budgets, the cumulative effect of these measures can free up funds for other essential needs.
Additional resources
Duke Energy has compiled a full list of seasonal savings ideas on its website. Residents can visit duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings for more detailed guidance, including printable checklists and energy‑efficiency calculators.
By encouraging Indiana households to adopt these straightforward habits, Duke Energy aims to ease the financial strain of winter heating while promoting responsible energy use across the state.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
