Are You Ready for Looming Polar Blast?
According to weather forecasts, the polar vortex is sending an icy blast like a tidal wave through the country. This will quickly drop temperatures several degrees below average in some areas. In Atlanta, although we won’t see dips quite that intense, it will be colder than normal. With dropping temperatures comes rising energy bills. Want to keep your use of natural gas in Georgia under control? We have you covered! As the polar blast heads for Atlanta, save energy and stay warm with our expert tips.
Saving Energy During Polar Blast
The first polar blast of winter 2025 will send temperatures in Atlanta into a 10-20 degree nosedive. Though this dip should not last too long, there could be more to come. So, here are a few things you can do to cut your natural gas bill.
- Lower your thermostat setting by 8-10 degrees when you are working or overnight. This can save 10% on heating.
- Find and fill air leaks. Common places to check are exterior doors, windows, around pipes that go through exterior walls, and outlets on exterior walls. When it’s cold, it’s easier to find these leaks. You can also improve your search with an affordable infrared laser thermometer.
- Add insulation to attics and crawlspaces. If your insulation hasn’t seen an upgrade in over a decade, you could probably use more. This could save you up to 15% on heating costs.
Stay Warm and Safe During Polar Blast
More important than saving money is staying warm and safe in extreme weather conditions. In Atlanta, we’re not used to long bouts of low temperatures. So, tips to stay warm and safe are even more important to keep in mind and share.
- Dress in loose layers. Loose clothing is better at keeping you insulated than tight clothing.
- Avoid travel and outdoor activities during extreme conditions.
- Invest in CO and smoke detectors. The furnace is a common source of CO leaks; stay safe with CO detector nearby. Space heaters are a common fire hazard; make sure you have smoke detectors throughout your home.
- Never use the oven, stove, or grills to stay warm your home. And never use a generator inside your home or in an enclosed area.
- If you are over 45, avoid strenuous activities outdoors. The cold causes extra strain on your cardiovascular system and leaves you more vulnerable to heart attacks or injury.
- Check in on older family and neighbors, especially those with health problems.
Protect Your Gas Bill But Stay Warm
As always, one of the best things you can do to keep energy costs low is getting a cheap natural gas rate. Comparing fixed natural gas plans to find the best rate can help you start saving right away. Cold snaps like what we are expecting shortly can destabilize the gas market and bring prices up. So, today could be a good time to swoop in and snag a plan after a mild start to winter last month. To get started, visit us now at https://www.georgiagassavings.com.