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Energy company prepared for lowest temperatures to hit Chicago in 10 months

CHICAGO (Jan. 17, 2020) – The coldest temperatures to strike the Chicago area since record-breaking lows last March are on their way. With wind chills expected to reach negative 20 degrees this weekend, ComEd is taking steps to help customers save energy and money.

ComEd's power grid is prepared to weather the bitter cold. However, the company encourages customers to manage their energy use with these no- and low-cost tips that will also reduce their energy costs:

1. Lower manual or programmable thermostats when not at home and before going to sleep. This can save customers 10 percent to 30 percent a year on heating. Or purchase a smart thermostat that can offer even more control over the climate at home.  ComEd customers can purchase a smart thermostat on ComEd's Marketplace and get a $75 instant rebate.

2. Check furnace filters. If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. A dirty filter will slow airflow and make the system work harder to keep your home warm, wasting energy.
3. Open curtains during the day to bring the sun's free heat inside. Close window coverings when the sun goes down to keep the heat in.
4. Inspect and replace caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors. Also, check ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner or heat pump to make sure there are no leaks, which cause energy waste.
5. Create a free online account at ComEd.com/MyAccount.  Access hour-by-hour and day-by-day energy usage information to learn how much energy is used and when. By answering a few simple questions, customers can learn what uses the most energy and get customized energy-saving tips to save.

For more information about energy-efficiency offerings, visit ComEd.com/WaysToSave.