WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 18, 2016)- It may be early in the fall season, but Pepco says now is the best time for customers to take the necessary steps to save electricity and money this winter. By following a few simple tips and making a few easy energy efficiency improvements, customers could save 20 percent or more on their winter heating bills.

• Keep it sealed. A drafty house lets warm air escape and is much more costly to keep warm - especially during cooler weather. Use caulking around doors, windows and any openings for utility services. Locks on your windows can make them tighter and more resistant to drafts. Keep your fireplace damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.
• Upgrade your insulation. Insulating your home can significantly reduce your heating costs, while increasing the comfort of your home. Reducing air leaks - in floors, walls, ceilings, ducts, fireplaces, doors, windows and vents, and around plumbing - could cut 10 percent from an average household's monthly energy bill.
• Check ducts for air leaks. Look for joints that should be connected but have separated. Leaky ductwork can increase your utility bill significantly.
• Warm up your system. Service your heating system at the beginning of each heating season. A well-maintained system will last longer, operate more efficiently and save you money.
• Manage your thermostat. Keep thermostats set at a constant, comfortable level. You can save about 2 percent on your heating bill for every degree you lower your thermostat.
• Be prepared for cooler weather. Remove screens and air conditioners from windows and install storm windows.
• Shorter days and longer lights. Don't forget to adjust outdoor lighting timers as the nights grow longer. Take the time to replace older incandescent bulbs with new energy efficient LED bulbs.

Looking for customized solutions to help you save energy and money? Learn about many other ways to save energy and money at pepco.com or call 1-202-833-7500.

For more information about Pepco, visit www.pepco.com. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pepcoconnect and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/pepcoconnect. Our mobile app is available at www.pepco.com/mobileapp.

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About Pepco: Pepco, a public utility owned by Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), provides safe and reliable energy to more than 842,000 electric delivery customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.