During this cold winter season, when even more electricity is used simultaneously across the country, Union Power ensures reliability is our top priority.

While our reliability rating is 99.9%, snow and ice storms are an unpreventable part of the winter season. These storms can cause downed power lines, dangerous roads, and heating units to operate longer than normal. As your electric provider, we work diligently through vegetation management, equipment maintenance, and most importantly system improvements to prepare for potential outages throughout the year.

Below are a few precautions you can take to prepare for the colder weather:

• Drop the thermostat temperature. When it’s cold outside, your heating system has to work harder to heat your home. Keeping the thermostat at 68° or lower will benefit your HVAC system and your utility bill. When adjusting your thermostat, make sure to do so in two-degree increments or less.
• Seal the chill. Sealing air leaks around windows and exterior doors with caulk and weatherstripping is a great start to having an energy-efficient home. This small gesture is a simple, cost-effective way to increase comfort and save energy.
• Do not block the heat! Blocking air vents and heating elements with furniture or rugs will make the system run longer and distribute heat unevenly.
• Take care of those energy-consumption devices. Eliminate unnecessary energy consumption by unplugging devices when not in use. Even when electronics are turned off, they can still use energy. Plugging those devices into a power strip allows you to control your energy consumption and turn them on or off simultaneously.
• Stagger your use of major appliances such as dishwashers, ovens, and dryers. Start the dishwasher before you go to bed, and use smaller countertop appliances like slow cookers and air fryers to save energy.
• Take care of your water heater. Wrapping your water lines and water heater with insulation can reduce heat loss and the risk of pipes freezing and bursting. Keeping your water heater’s thermostat at 120° or less and inspect it annually to save you energy.

As we face potential storms, our commitment remains the same—To enhance the quality of life of our members and the communities we serve by delivering on our promise to provide safe, reliable electric power and energy services with exceptional value.