Media Contact: Karl Walquist, (775) 834-3891

As chilly temperatures arrive in northern Nevada, NV Energy wants to remind residents and businesses that there are several easy, low-cost ways to stay warm, conserve energy and save money during the cold weather.

"The best step you can take to save energy during the winter is to adjust your furnace thermostat to a lower setting,"said John Hargrove, energy efficiency and conservation program manager at NV Energy. "We recommend setting it at 68 degrees when you are at home and 58 degrees when you are away or sleeping."

Hargrove said it's important to make sure your furnace is operating efficiently by replacing the air filter monthly and inspecting air ducts for leaks, and he recommends installing a programmable thermostat so you can program your furnace to change settings automatically.

You can also save energy by installing a water heater blanket, insulating hot water pipes, caulking gaps around window and door frames and weather stripping doors to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. 

 "Take advantage of natural heating. Open blinds and curtains to let the sun warm your home during the day and close them at night or on cloudy days to keep warm air in,"Hargrove said.

Here are some other energy savings tips from Hargrove:

* Turn off lights and appliances when they're not in use.
* Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.
* Vacuum the coils underneath or on the back of your refrigerator.
* Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees. 
* Close foundation vents during winter months.

For more tips and information about the utility's conservation programs, visitwww.nvenergy.comor call (775) 834-4444.