As winter continues across the region, many households are seeking ways to remain warm while keeping energy costs manageable. With colder weather leading to higher utility bills, Black Hills Energy has released a series of recommendations aimed at improving home comfort and reducing expenses.
The company highlights that cold air can enter homes through various points, especially around doors and windows. Up to 12% of a building’s heat loss is attributed to these areas. Simple measures such as weatherstripping and caulking can help prevent drafts. Weatherstripping is suitable for doors and windows, while caulking should be used for sealing cracks in stationary parts of the structure like windowsills and door frames.
Insulation is another key factor in maintaining warmth. Experts estimate that nearly nine out of ten single-family homes in the United States lack adequate insulation. Attics or top-story ceilings are primary candidates for improvement; upgrading insulation in these areas can lead to significant energy savings—potentially up to 30%. Blanket, batt, loose-fill, and blown-in insulation are among the options available for homeowners.
Heating system maintenance also plays a role in efficiency. Regularly changing furnace filters ensures good airflow, reduces motor wear, and helps maintain indoor air quality. Most one-inch filters should be replaced every one to three months, though factors like pets or environmental conditions may require more frequent changes.
The adoption of smart thermostats offers additional opportunities for energy management. These devices allow users to schedule heating patterns or control temperatures remotely via smartphones. Some models learn household routines and adjust settings automatically. Rebates may be available for those installing qualifying smart thermostats.
Water heating represents another area where households can cut energy use by setting water heater temperatures appropriately—120 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended as a balance between safety and efficiency.
Safety remains a priority when using natural gas for heating. The company advises residents: “Natural gas stinks, but it’s smelly for a reason! It’s odorized as a safety feature — many people say it smells like rotten eggs.” In case of detecting this odor:
“Immediately leave the home or building where the smell is detected. Let everyone else in the building know they need to leave too.
Do not open or close windows before you leave.
Do not turn light switches on or off.
Do not smoke or use electronics including mobile phones, garage door openers or alarm systems.
Never start an engine or drive a vehicle where the odor is present.
Move to a safe distance — approximately 300 feet or more — until you can no longer smell the gas odor.
Once you reach a safe distance, call 911 and Black Hills Energy at 800-890-5554.
Never attempt to fix or adjust gas lines or related equipment.
If you don’t own the property or residence, notify the property owner or manager.
Stay away from the area until you are informed by Black Hills Energy employees or emergency responders that it is safe to return.”
The company also reminds customers about carbon monoxide risks associated with burning fossil fuels: “If you suspect a carbon monoxide problem, leave the premises and call our emergency number 800-890-5554 or 911.”
Black Hills Energy encourages residents to explore its rebate programs designed to support energy-efficient upgrades at home.
