At SJI, we know cold weather and increased energy usage go hand in hand, which is why we want to help our South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas customers stay warm, safe, and comfortable with a few simple at-home energy-saving tips.
Starting with:
- Your Thermostat: Setting it to the lowest comfortable temperature—around 68°F—during the day and turning it down when you’re sleeping or away can help lower heating costs. Also, make sure vents and radiators are clear so warm air can move freely throughout your home.
- The Sun is Your Friend: Let the sun help heat your home. On sunny winter days, open the curtains or blinds to let in natural warmth. At night, close them to keep heat from escaping.
- Sealing Drafts: Pesky drafts can make your home feel colder than it really is. Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk can help keep warm air inside and cold air out.
If you use a generator during a winter storm, always place it outdoors and far away from doors, windows, and vents. Never, under any circumstances, operate a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces, such as garages, as this can cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Winter is also a good time to check safety basics and make sure your home is running efficiently. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.
After storms, it’s also a good idea to make sure your natural gas meter is clear of snow, ice, and other debris. Gently remove any snow buildup using your hands or a broom, but never a shovel, which could damage the meter. Also, check to see that rain gutters aren’t dripping onto the meter and paths are clear so technicians can easily access it if they need to.
SJI is Here
No matter what winter will look like in New Jersey, safety is still important. Never try to turn your gas service on or off yourself. Know where your gas meter is located, and if you smell natural gas—which smells like rotten eggs—leave the area immediately, call 911, and then contact South Jersey Gas at 1-800-582-7060 or Elizabethtown Gas at 1-800-492-4009.
At SJI, we’re here to help—every step of the way. If paying for energy is a concern this winter, South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas offer energy assistance programs to help customers manage energy costs and take advantage of energy efficiency programs that can reduce usage over time.
For more information and tips on saving energy during winter and throughout the year, please see the resources below:
By making small changes and using available assistance, you can stay warm, safe, and energy smart all season long.
