As temperatures get colder, electric usage goes up, but there are things you can do to help limit increases in your bill. 
Benton PUD suggests using these low-cost, no-cost tips for customers to save energy this winter:

• Set thermostats as low as possible. Every degree lower your thermostat saves about 2-3% on your heating bill.
• Use rolled up towels or draft stoppers at the base of exterior doors to prevent air infiltration and heat loss
• Caulk any holes in the home as well as around the inside and outside of doors and windows
• Install gaskets behind wall switches and outlets
• Keep windows and doors closed
• Only use space heaters when needed
• Open blinds during a sunny day. Close them at night to help keep heat in
• Put plastic over old or cracked windows as this will help keep heat in
• Use ceiling fans to push down warm air
• Dress warm to allow the thermostat to be set lower
• Use rugs on bare floors to retain heat
• Apply for a rebate (available for heat pumps, insulation, windows, appliances, smart thermostats)

Other ways to save: 

Monitor Usage With SmartHub®
Benton PUD’s SmartHub® allows you to check your hourly and daily usage and compare it month to month. When you know your usage is running high, you can take steps to lower it.  

You can also download the SmartHub app from the Apple app store or Google Play.

Low Income Energy Efficiency Program
We offer an energy efficiency program specifically designed for approved low income customers to use on weatherization projects such as insulation, doors, heat pumps, and ductless heat pumps for your home.

Contact one of our Energy Efficiency Advisors at (509) 582-1234 to see if you qualify for the program and to schedule a home audit.

For more energy saving tips go to BentonPUD.org/EnergySavings