LOS ANGELES, April 21, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- With Earth Day 2005 just a day away, and as part of a long-term strategy to continue to provide affordable natural gas for the region, Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) is encouraging customers to include energy conservation in their efforts to help protect the environment and conserve natural resources.
"Using energy efficiently not only can help save customers money and make homes more comfortable, but it also can help conserve natural resources for future generations," said Michelle Mueller, vice president of customer services for The Gas Company.
The Gas Company offered these energy-saving tips:
-- Space Heaters. Space heating is the single largest natural
gas expense in most homes, accounting for about half of the
annual gas bill. Clean or replace furnace filters during heating
season use, or according to manufacturer recommendations. Lower
the thermostat by three degrees to five degrees and turn it off
when not at home. Consider installing a programmable thermostat
to automatically regulate the home's temperature.
-- Water Heaters. Help save on water heating costs by lowering
the setting on the water heater thermostat. Since bathing
can account for more than 50 percent of hot water use, take
shorter, cooler showers rather than baths. Fix leaky faucets
to prevent hot water from being wasted. One drop of hot water
per second can waste 2,500 gallons per year. Wash only full
dishwasher loads.
-- Weatherization. Installing or upgrading attic insulation and
tightening the shell of the home can help conserve energy all
year round. Caulk and weather-strip drafty windows and doors
to help keep heat inside during winter and cool air inside
during summer.
-- Pool and spa. Natural gas spa and pool heaters use less energy
than electric ones and cost less to operate. Help save on
heating costs by lowering temperature settings and reducing
the number of hours the filter operates. Consider installing
a spa/pool cover. Besides helping to minimize heat loss, pool
covers also help prevent chemical loss and water evaporation.
-- Ovens/Cooktops. When using the oven, preheat only when the
recipe calls for it. Don't open the oven door while food is
cooking. Adjust the top burner flame to fit the pan size, and
then simmer after cooking starts. Cover pots when cooking. Never
use the gas range or oven for room heating -- they are not
designed for that purpose.
-- Washing machines. With any type of washer, conserve by washing
full loads or adjusting the water level to fit the size of the
load. Use cool or cold water when washing full laundry loads.
Most laundry detergents are made to clean just as well at cold
temperatures. Replace cracked hoses and fix leaky faucet
connections.
-- Clothes dryers. Clean the dryer lint screen before starting
each load. Dry full loads and don't over-dry clothes.
The Gas Company is the nation's largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.5 million consumers through 5.5 million meters. The company's service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California. The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community. The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. To learn more, go to www.socalgas.com.