Comfy at 68°

Winter is officially here, and Gainesville Regional Utilities remains committed to providing reliable utilities while empowering our customers to maintain comfort without compromising their budget. To help prepare for the colder weather, GRU has some tips to help you and your loved ones stay cozy at 68° while mindfully limiting energy usage.

This initiative encourages customers to lower their thermostats to a comfortable, energy-efficient temperature of 68° or lower during the winter. This optimal thermostat setting will help customers take a significant step toward minimizing their energy usage. In addition, we have more tips to help manage energy consumption this winter:?

1. Seal Drafts: Ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent heat loss, reducing the need for additional heating.?
2. Bundle Up: Encourage wearing an extra layer of clothing, such as a comfy sweater, fuzzy socks, and slippers. Additionally, put another blanket on the bed to keep you cozy.?
3. Embrace Sunlight: Open your shades and curtains during the day to warm your home naturally.??
4. Regular Maintenance: Ensure your heating system is well-maintained and check your air filters monthly to improve efficiency.?
5. Slow and Steady: When using the heat setting on your thermostat, avoid activating the heat strips (which use 2-3x the amount of electricity) by increasing the temperature by 1-2 degrees at a time. Do not turn on your Emergency Heat Setting located on your thermostat unless instructed to by an HVAC contractor.
6. Light Up: Use energy-efficient LED lights in your home and for holiday decorations.?

For more tips on how to be cozy at 68° and save energy during the cold weather months, visit:? https://www.gru.com/MyHome/LowerMyBill/SaveEnergy/HowLowCanYouGo?