GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — By now most Michiganders have caved and turned their thermostats to the heat setting, and as the outdoor temperatures continue to drop bills will go up.
DTE Energy encourages its customers to plan ahead with energy efficiency tips and assistance for those who may find they are struggling to pay those bills.
“Making sure our customers have the safe, reliable and affordable energy they need this winter is our top priority,” said Bob Richard, president and COO, DTE Gas.
Ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, according to DTE:
• Adjust thermostats by setting them to 68 degrees during the day and lowering temperatures a few degrees at night while sleeping. Customers can save about 3% on heating costs for each degree they lower their thermostats.
• Seal air leaks around doors and windows to prevent drafts and energy loss, which can save up to 10% on annual energy costs.
• Open the blinds or drapes to let the sun in, and close them at night to hold heat in.
DTE encourages customers to seek help if they can’t keep up with their energy bill:
• Customers should reach out to DTE at 800-477-4747 as soon as they know they may have trouble paying an upcoming bill. The sooner the customer reaches out, the better DTE can support their needs.
• Customers may also be eligible for protection from service interruptions based on income and other factors. Explore these options at dteenergy.com/help.
• Customers can access additional support with energy, food, shelter and other necessities. A call to 211 can connect those in need to agencies offering further assistance.
