By some estimates, closing air leaks through gaps and cracks can save 30 to 40 percent on home heating costs.ÌýPoor insulation makes walls cold and forces your system to work harder and use more energy. For the biggest savings, add insulation in the attic. In fact, if a home is properly sealed and insulated, other measures, such as installing a high efficiency furnace, may not be the best investment.ÌýÌýÌý

Some additional key measures to conserve natural gas include:

• Maintain the heating system. Have your furnace inspected regularly by a qualified professional, and change filters once per month.
• Install a programmable thermostat. These help to save energy by automatically turning down the heat in your home while you’re away. They can save up to $100 per year in heating costs.
• Turn down the water heater. Set your water heater no higher than 120°F. This is warm enough to meet your household needs, and every 10°F reduction can save up to five percent in water heating costs.
• Conserve hot water. Low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators can reduce hot water consumption. Take shorter showers, and wash only full loads in dishwashers and clothes washers.
• Cook up energy savings. Simple things in the kitchen can save on natural gas bills. Use a smaller pan if possible, and put a lid on it so the food cooks faster. Use the microwave to heat food whenever possible.

When replacing natural gas appliances and equipment, purchase models that areÌýcertified for high energy performance. Ìý

To save even more, check out our energy efficiency programs.

Content provided for Entergy customers, Powered by Questline RelationshipBuilder. ©Questline Inc. Ìý

Permanent natural gas hookups eliminate the need for charcoal and refillable propane tanks. Gas convenience outlets or ‘gas plugs’ make connecting and disconnecting these natural gas appliances as safe and easy as plugging into an electrical outlet. Gas plugs can also be used with indoor equipment, including gas ranges and clothes dryers.

Gas Plugs: Connecting the dots

Gas plugs look and function much like an electrical outlet. They can be mounted on the wall or recessed. Installation kits typically include a mounting bracket or inlet to hide piping. The outlet is connected to a gas pipe and includes a manual on/off switch and an automatic shut-off valve.

A built-in lift ring makes connecting and disconnecting quick and easy, without lifting a cover or lid. Moreover, gas plugs are available as a single or double outlet, making it possible to run two gas appliances simultaneously from the same location. The plug is coupled with a piece of flexible stainless steel hose, which connects to the appliance.

A thermal protection device prevents gas flow if the outlet is exposed to temperatures in excess of 200°F. Automatic shut-off valves include a safety interlocking device that prevents the disconnection of natural gas appliances when the outlet is in the on position.

Tapping into the benefits

Gas plugs provide a flexible and easy way to bring cheap and clean-burning natural gas to your home, inside and out.

• Cost effective. Low-cost installation brings this practical innovation into homes at a reasonable price.
• Convenience. Quick and easy hook-up and disconnect of gas grills, patio heaters and fire pits allow natural gas living to be extended outdoors for longer periods of time.
• Flexibility. Indoor appliances such as ranges and clothes dryers can be added or moved simply and safely.
• Safety. Built-in safety features make gas plugs as safe as using a standard gas outlet. They typically receive fast and easy approval from insurers, fire officials and building inspectors.

When properly installed, gas plugs provide the reliability and convenience of natural gas wherever it’s needed—inside and outside your home. Contact a plumber or building contractor about installing gas convenience outlets in your home.

Content provided for Entergy customers, Powered by Questline RelationshipBuilder. ©Questline Inc.