KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville Utilities Board is offering savings and safety tips for its customers as cooler temperatures are on the way.
KUB customers can expect to see their utility usage increase as heating is the biggest energy user throughout the year. To alleviate some of the cold weather impact has on bills, KUB has ways for customers to manage energy and provides important safety reminders.
“We really want to be a resource and partner to help our customers stay warm, save money, and manage bills,” KUB Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Tiffany Martin said. “Now is an ideal time to get ready for winter and ensure our customers stay safe as they navigate the upcoming season of higher energy use.”
According to KUB, the following steps will improve energy, water efficiency and safety:
- Lower your thermostat's regular setting as low as safely possible and dress in layers
- To prevent water pipe bursts, insulate pipes in crawl spaces, attics, near outer walls and other unconditioned areas. If you have pipes against exterior walls, open cabinet doors to allow airflow. You may also start a very slow drip on your faucets situated on exterior-facing walls when temperatures are below freezing, but this will increase water usage.
- Seal leaks and cracks around windows and doors and check and replace weather stripping. KUB recommends using cardboard, plastic or blankets to minimize heat loss.
- Disconnect hoses and cover outside faucets and close outside vents at night when temperatures are below freezing.
- Track utility usage and turn on alerts on your KUB account to be aware of abnormal spikes in usage
Colder temperatures also mean furnaces and other heat sources are turned on for the first time in months. KUB recommends customers hire a licensed contractor to conduct regular inspections and maintenance.
For natural gas appliances, KUB urges those to follow these safety guidelines:
- Maintain proper air circulation around gas appliances.
- A gas flame should burn bright blue. A yellow or orange flame could mean improper combustion or venting, and the appliance should be checked as carbon monoxide can be emitted in this situation. Install carbon monoxide detectors.
- Keep flammable or combustible items away from gas appliances and equipment.
- Use natural gas equipment as intended. Never use a stove or oven for heating.
- KUB can respond to investigate any suspected natural gas leak free of charge. You can call 865-524-2911.
Customers can also enroll in KUB's Levelized Billing Plan (LBP) to avoid drastic weather-related changes in utility bills. It calculates customer's bills based on a rolling 12-month average.
You can find more safety and savings tips on KUB's website.
