The employees and directors of Duncan Valley Electric and Duncan Rural Services Corporation would like to help prepare its customers for colder weather, and higher natural gas prices this winter.  As DRSC is regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission, the cost of natural gas is passed on to our customers.  Natural gas is a commodity that is traded on the open market, making prices subject to supply and demand across the nation.

AVERAGE PAY can reduce the impact of higher bills.  DRSC encourages it’s customers to take a look at Average Pay, a 12-month rolling average of your monthly bill.

FURNACE CHECK-UPS will not only prolong the life of your heating system, but will help your system to operate at maximum efficiency and decrease your usage.  Remember to check filters monthly for cleaning or changing as needed.  Keep all vents and registers free of dirt, lint and other obstructions. 

INSULATING for air leaks around your doors and windows with weather stripping and caulking, or foam gaskets for wall outlets, inside and outside of your home.   Remember to check and maintain pipes and ducting which runs through unheated areas such as crawlspaces and attics. 

HOT WATER faucets should be checked for leaks.  Check areas around your hot water tank for debris and ventilation. Also for homes with hot water tanks located outside of the home, consider a hot water blanket.  Consider lowering the temperature settings on your hot water heater.  Flushing your hot water tank periodically will help eliminate sediment build up.  If washing with hot water, remember to run washers and dishwashers with full loads.  Take shorter, cooler showers or install low-flow, water-saving showerheads.  Remember showers use less water than baths.

THERMOSTATS are the most common way to help save energy.  Dropping your settings just a 3-5 degrees can save you money.  Programmable thermostats can reduce the temperature in your home at night or at times when family members are normally away from home.

ALTERNATIVES such as natural heat from the sun can be beneficial to your energy savings.  Open your blinds and drapes during the day, but remember to close them in the evening to retain your warmth and help insulate against the cooler night temperatures.  If you use a fireplace, remember to check your chimney for blockage, and close the damper when the fireplace is not in use.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY cycles for your appliances such as washers, dryers, dishwashers, and hot water tanks are a great way to save.  Remember to check filters and exhaust fans on appliances as well for lint and other debris.  Dry consecutive loads instead of only one dryer load. Energy Efficiency Loans are also available for customers through Duncan Valley Electric Cooperative.  Please call our office for further details.

SAFETY should always be your first concern.  If you are uncertain or uncomfortable when performing your home or appliance maintenance and check-ups, always consult a professional.  Check your Yellow Pages under Contractors -General, Contractors - Remodel & Repair, Heating Contractors, Insulation Contractors, and Plumbing Contractors.