Summit Utilities Oklahoma Shares Tips to Lower Your Natural Gas Bill During Cold Snap

Lawton, Oklahoma (February 19, 2025) – Summit Utilities (Summit) wants to help our customers stay warm and save money during this cold snap by sharing simple and effective ways to reduce energy costs while maintaining comfort.

“With the cold weather we are experiencing, we want to help customers stay warm while keeping energy costs manageable,” said Fred Kirkwood, Summit’s SVP & Chief Customer Experience Officer. “Simple adjustments can make a big difference, allowing customers to use natural gas more efficiently, keep their homes warm, and reduce their energy bills."

Top Tips to Lower Your Natural Gas Bill:

• Lower your thermostat by a few degrees: Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower, health permitting, particularly when you're away from home for extended periods.
• Clear space around vents to allow warm air to circulate freely.
• Keep garage doors closed and close dampers on unused fireplaces to retain warm air inside.
• Insulate around windows and doors to prevent heat loss and keep warmth in.
• Opt for layered clothing indoors, so you can maintain comfort at a lower thermostat setting (as health allows).
• Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans and set them to spin clockwise. This will help to bring heated air down toward you.
• Reducing your water heater temperature to 120°F can save energy while still providing plenty of hot water.

These simple steps can help conserve energy, maintain comfort, and potentially save you money throughout the winter. For more information, visit summitutilities.com/ready-for-winter.

To stay safe during the cold weather, follow these important tips:

• Clear snow and ice around outdoor vents, meters, and flues to prevent blockages. Use a broom, not a shovel, to gently remove snow around gas equipment and avoid causing damage.
• Check proper ventilation in enclosed spaces and never use gas ovens or stovetops as a primary heat source.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in key areas of your home and test the batteries regularly. If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure (headache, dizziness, nausea), leave your home immediately and call emergency services.
• Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, and necessary medications.
• Watch for gas leaks and familiarize yourself with the smell of natural gas (similar to rotten eggs). If you detect this odor, avoid using electronic devices, including phones or light switches. Leave the area on foot immediately and call 911 from a safe location.

For more winter weather safety tips, visit summitutilities.com/safety/natural-gas-safety.

If you're having issues paying your bill, Summit is here to help. Please visit our Payment Assistance page for more details.