Be Safe
With bitter temperatures on the horizon, it’s important to be prepared for prolonged periods of freezing temperatures. Take the following steps to stay safe this winter season.
- Check carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries regularly.
- Do: Use heaters on a hard, level surface away from flammables. Don’t: Use stoves, ovens or grills for heat.
- Clear your meter of snow and ice and areas around heating equipment vents. Make sure to use a broom.
Remember that if you smell natural gas at any time, you should stop what you are doing, leave the area immediately and call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.
Be Smart
Payment assistance is available for those who need it. If you find yourself getting behind, call Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077 to find a solution that works best for you. Here are some of the programs available to help manage your winter costs.
- Payment Plans - Plans to help make your home energy costs more manageable.
- Winter Reconnect Order - A program to have your service restored or maintained with a payment of $175 plus a reconnection fee.
- Winter Crisis Program - Energy assistance available through your local community action agency.
- HeatShare - Energy assistance available through your local community action agency.
- WarmChoice® - Free home weatherization program for income-eligible Columbia Gas customers.
Be Efficient
Columbia Gas offers a variety of energy efficiency programs for all income levels, including a home energy audit. More information on these programs is available at columbiagasohio.com/ways-to-save.
- When you’re not home, drop your thermostat to 55 degrees. This can cut as much as 8-10% from the amount of energy used to heat your home.
- Caulk and weather-strip around drafty doors and windows.
- Set your water heater temperature down to 120 degrees.
- Replace appliances with models that carry the ENERGY STAR® label.