Cinergy Helps Customers Prepare for the Winter Heating Season.

CINCINNATI -- Cinergy/CG&E/ULH&P are announcing the development of a one-stop web page www.CinergyComfort.com/ designed to help customers better manage their winter heating bills.

The site includes information on Budget Billing, various energy conservation ideas and energy assistance programs. It will also provide a web-based energy audit that can give customers insights into the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy use. Customers without Internet access can call 1.888.BEWARM2.

Now is also a good time for customers to prepare their home for the upcoming winter weather. As energy costs increase, customers should consider home improvement projects that can have a greater impact on reducing energy usage. Low- or no-cost energy-saving conservation tips can also help trim energy expenses.

Long-Term Energy-Efficiency Improvements

--Insulate the attic and basement with the recommended levels of insulation.

--Replace old, less efficient heating systems and appliances with high-efficiency models. When shopping, compare energy efficiency ratings and annual operating costs.

--Install storm or thermal windows and doors or double-paned glass. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain heat.

--If a home has ductwork in a cold area such as the garage or attic, seal the seams and joints in the ductwork with the highest quality duct tape, then insulate the ducts with fiberglass insulation.

--Install an automatic setback or programmable thermostat.

Low- or No-Cost Tips

--Keep the cold out. Seal air leaks around doors and windows with caulking, weather stripping, or sheets of plastic. Air infiltration can account for half of the heating costs in a leaky home.

--Clean or replace the furnace filter monthly. Use the utility bill as a reminder.

--Set the thermostat back to the lowest possible setting that is comfortable for your family. Customers may save as much as three percent on their energy bill for each degree set lower.

--Open draperies and window shades on sunny days and keep them closed on cloudy or cold, windy days and at night.

--Set water heater temperature at 120 degrees and insulate water heaters with insulation "blankets" in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.

--Install water-flow restrictors in showerheads and faucets.

--Use cold-water wash for clothes and cold-water rinse for dishes.

--Keep heat sources such as lamps away from the thermostat, and keep windows and doors located near the thermostat tightly closed.

--If you have a heat pump, keep the outdoor unit clear of grass, leaves and other debris.

--Keep your fireplace damper closed tightly when not in use.

Programs To Help Manage Energy Bills

--Budget Billing--With Budget Billing customers pay a consistent monthly amount based on their previous usage. This free service allows customers to select from an Annual or a Quarterly Plan taking the guesswork out of paying monthly energy bills and eliminates the fluctuations in bills from month to month.

--Quick-e-Audit(R)--This 10-minute energy audit is a quick way to discover if you could benefit from energy upgrades to your home. By answering just a few questions, several investments might be identified that could pay you back with significant savings.

--Weatherization--A program for income qualified Cinergy/CG&E and Cinergy/ULH&P customers to receive free home weatherization. Both companies have designated funds specifically for improving the energy efficiency of customers' homes and helping them reduce their monthly energy bills.

--Home Energy House Call--A free home-energy audit for ULH&P customers in Kentucky. Homes are evaluated and customers are given a guide to help make their homes more energy efficient.

Cinergy, through its operating companies, serves 790,000 electric and 500,000 gas customers in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky.