Brrr…it’s cold out there, here’s how PECO has prepared (and tips for customers too!)

With temperatures beginning to dip it’s that time of year where we start to bundle up—whether it’s an Eagles hat to go outside or an extra blanket on the couch—because winter is here. Our region is expected to experience average winter temperatures this year, but with so many people working and learning from home, even an average winter can be very impactful.

That’s why, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve been hard at work preparing our systems, and testing processes and procedures to ensure safe and reliable natural gas and electric service to help meet increased customer demand and keep homes and businesses warm and bright all winter long. In advance of the heating season, PECO inspected its natural gas infrastructure, completed necessary repairs or replacements of equipment, performed preventative maintenance work, and installed additional natural gas main and service lines to bring safe and reliable natural gas service to new customers. PECO secured natural gas supply and completed filling storage facilities to serve our more than 534,000 natural gas customers this heating season.

PECO inspected and patrolled more than 40 circuits and 315 miles as part of its annual mall inspection program in advance of the winter and holiday shopping season. And due to the increase in online shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic, distribution centers such as Amazon, UPS, USPS and FedEx were also inspected as part of the company’s winter readiness programs.

But we’re not the only ones ensuring we’re prepared, customers can too by following these helpful tips:

• Use a programable thermostat to efficiently set and control the temperature.
  • When home, set the thermostat as low as comfortable
  • When away or asleep, turn the thermostat down 10-15 degrees
  • Lower the thermostat when using a fireplace
• Use the sun to help naturally heat your home by opening blinds and curtains during the day.
• Clean air vents around the house.
• Install storm windows and doors.
• Check weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors.
• Install seals behind electrical outlets and switches along exterior walls.
• Clean or replace the furnace air filter for maximum efficiency and improved indoor air quality.
• Remove window air conditioners or cover them with insulated liners to prevent drafts.
• If you have a generator, review the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation. Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring. Never use a generator indoors or any enclosed area.

We know managing your energy bill can be challenging – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve expanded billing and financial assistance programs to help qualified residential customers, who are facing financial challenges managing their energy bill, pay what they can and make their bills more manageable.  It’s important that residential customers who are not current on their energy bill contact us at 1-800-494-4000 or go online to www.peco.com/billrelief  to learn about payment options.

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