With colder temperatures expected into the weekend, TXU Energy reminds customers to be as energy efficient as possible.  Colder than normal weather in December and January has resulted in higher-than-normal electricity use and, as a result, higher bills.
 
TXU Energy has seen record-setting energy and heating-related consumption. The best way to reduce electric usage and minimize the impacts of this cold Texas winter is through energy efficiency and conservation efforts.

75 percent of a home's electricity consumption comes from heating/air-conditioning and water heating, so it's important that customers keep a closer eye on how they are consuming their energy.

TOP TEN COLD WEATHER TIPS: 

1. Fireplace open/close flue - Don't let heat go up the chimney.  Make sure the fireplace flue is closed when not in use.

2. Ceiling fans - Ceiling fans set at slow speed with the blades angled down push warm air away from ceilings.

3. Temperature settings - Set your thermostat to 70 degrees or less, and several degrees cooler overnight.  Lowering the thermostat by as little as one degree typically reduces heating bills by 5-6 percent.

4. Close vents - Closing heating vents in an unoccupied room can save up to 5-10 percent on heating costs.

5 .Insulation - Make sure that walls and attic are properly insulated.  Adding fiberglass insulation in attic is one of the most cost effective savings measures.

6. Computers - Turn computers and monitors off when not in use.  Leaving computer on all the time can cost more than $100 per year on electricity.

7. Dishwasher - Air dry dishes instead of using dishwasher's drying heater.

8. Hot water heaters - Wrapping water heater with an insulated blanket can save $20 annually for a gas heater and $50 annually on an electric heater. 

9. Keep doors closed - Shut the door or try to minimize number of times that doors to the outside are opened and closed.  Each time doors are opened, cold air enters the house.

10. Install weather-stripping/caulking and insulation - Sealing air leaks with caulking and weather-stripping and installing adequate insulation in walls and the attic are some  cost-effective measures you can take in your home to save on heating bills.    

For more low-cost or no-cost tips, visit www.txu.com/energytips. With continuing cold weather and increased electricity usage, higher than expected bills may continue through February.  TXU Energy reminds customers to call 1-800-242-9113 for deferred payment plans or low-income discounts for qualified customers.