As temperatures drop across the region, UGI Utilities is urging customers to prioritize heating system safety and maintenance to ensure reliable energy service throughout the winter season. The utility company emphasizes that proper system maintenance not only enhances safety but also improves cost efficiency for homeowners facing rising energy costs.
UGI recommends several critical steps to prepare heating systems for colder weather. Professional servicing tops the list, as a cleaned and properly maintained system operates more efficiently and can significantly reduce heating expenses. Regular filter maintenance also plays a crucial role, with properly fitted and regularly cleaned or replaced filters impacting both energy costs and indoor air quality.
The company advises installing programmable thermostats, which can lower heating bills by automatically adjusting home temperatures when residents are away or asleep. Proper ventilation maintenance is equally important, including ensuring chimneys and exhaust flues are clear and in good condition, and verifying that furnaces and water heaters in enclosed spaces receive adequate airflow to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Home energy efficiency measures include sealing air leaks around windows, doors, pipes, and electrical outlets, which collectively can cause significant heat loss. UGI also cautions against blocking air vents, as obstructions force heating systems to work harder, increasing energy consumption and costs.
Safety equipment checks are paramount, with UGI recommending verification that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly with fresh batteries. Detectors should be located on every floor, in each bedroom, and the company suggests adding natural gas detectors for enhanced safety. In case of gas leaks, identified by the distinctive rotten egg odor added to natural gas, immediate evacuation is crucial without turning any electrical devices on or off, followed by contacting UGI at 800-276-2722 or dialing 911 from a safe distance.
UGI Utilities, serving more than 760,000 customers, provides additional information through their official website at https://www.ugi.com. The company maintains 800-276-2722 as the primary contact number for all customer inquiries, including billing and account questions.
