“In the last two months, average kilowatt-hour consumption by residential customers has increased 75 percent as we have tried to stay warm against the coldest streak of weather in 40 years,” said Zack Dusenbury, vice president of retail operations at Santee Cooper. “Winter is not over yet, either. If you subscribe to the follies of Groundhog Day, then you know we can expect at least six more weeks of winter this year.”

In the meantime, Santee Cooper can help customers shore up energy-saving habits while winter hangs around.

“Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. Try starting with a setting of 68 degrees,” Dusenbury said. “You can save up to 1 percent on your heating bill for every degree you lower your thermostat.”

Properly maintaining and cleaning heating equipment and replacing air filters regularly will help ensure systems are functioning at their peak, Dusenbury noted. Open the curtains on any south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and then close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

“Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling,” Dusenbury continued. “Most models allow you to reverse the direction of the blades, pushing warm air down in the winter. Fans should turn clockwise in the winter and counter-clockwise in the summer.”

Hidden gaps and cracks in a home can undo all your best efforts, though, by allowing heat to escape and cold air to enter. Inspect your doors, window frames, ductwork, attic, basement, dryer vents and other ventilation for leaks. Add caulk, weather-stripping or insulation to seal the openings, and visit www.ReduceTheUse.com for more tips and information.

“If you have storm windows, make sure they are closed completely,” Dusenbury said. “If you have a fireplace, always keep the damper closed unless a fire is going. Otherwise, all that warm air is escaping up the chimney.”

Santee Cooper energy advisors are prepared to help customers who are interested in improving their home’s energy efficiency, through free audits and advice on grants or low-interest financing to make home improvements. Moncks Corner customers can call 761-8000, ext. 3505, or e-mail info@santeecooper.com to schedule an energy assessment.Santee Cooper is South Carolina’s state-owned electric and water utility, and the state’s largest power producer. The ultimate source of electricity for 2 million South Carolinians, Santee Cooper is dedicated to being the state’s leading resource for improving the quality of life for the people of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.santeecooper.com.