Overview
Eligible District residents can apply to several assistance or discount programs to help lower their utility costs. The DCPSC requires that Pepco, Washington Gas, and Verizon sponsor their own discount programs for residents, but there are additional money- and energy-saving initiatives available through #Here2HelpDC.
Income Eligibility Requirements
For assistance applying to any of these programs, or if you have any questions, please call the DCPSC Office of Consumer Services at (202) 626-5120.
Tips to save energy and money over the winter
Be ready for winter weather
Always have the following supplies on-hand to be prepared for a major snowstorm or power outage.
✓ Snow shovel
✓ Rock salt, snow melt, or sand
✓ Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
✓ Cell phone and portable charger
✓ Non-perishable food (3-day supply) and a manual can opener
✓ Portable space heater or kerosene heater
✓ Flashlight with extra batteries
✓ Family communication plan
✓ Extra blankets
✓ First-aid kit
✓ Extra water (3-day supply)
✓ Prescription medication (consult with your doctor about storing medicine)
✓ Cash
Reduce energy costs
✓ Review and compare previous bills to monitor energy usage
✓ Sign up for an online account with Pepco and/or Washington Gas for a more detailed accounting of your energy usage
✓ Browse offers to switch your electric supplier using DC Power Connect
✓ Apply for discount programs (e.g., LIHEAP, UDP, WAP) from the District Department of Energy & Environment
✓ Hire a professional auditor or conduct a DIY energy audit
✓ Use a programmable thermostat to lower temperatures at night or when you leave home
✓ Caulk windows and weather-strip doors
✓ Switch screens to storm windows
✓ Turn off water supply to outside faucets
✓ Disconnect garden hoses outside faucets and drain the hose before you store them
✓ Drain exterior water faucets of water in the line
✓ Use an insulated cover for the outside faucet
Prepare your home
Exterior
✓ Have roof inspection for missing or loose shingles
✓ Inspect for clean gutters and downspouts
✓ Make sure any paints or flammable materials are stored away from heat sources
✓ Make sure you know where the shut-off switch is for water, gas and electric
Interior
✓ If you have a propane or oil furnace, make sure to have your fuel storage tank topped off and ready to go
✓ Have heating system checked
✓ Flush water heater and check for signs of leakage
✓ Clean or replace air filters (monthly)
✓ Clear obstacles to heating vents so air can freely flow
✓ Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
✓ Charge the battery backup for landline telephones
✓ If you have a chimney, check and clear of any nests from birds, squirrels, or other animals
✓ Cover draughty windows with plastic
✓ Clean dryer filter regularly
✓ Find and eliminate any leaks or gaps using caulking and/or weather stripping
✓ If you have a fireplace, remember to close the damper when it’s not in use
✓ If you use electric space heaters, purchase a unit with automatic shut-off
✓ Eliminate drafts under the door by using draft stopper(s)
✓ If you have ceiling fans, run them in reverse
✓ Cover draughty windows with plastic
✓ In older homes, insulate the attic
✓ Use energy efficient light bulbs
✓ Put caulk plates around outlets
✓ Insulate pipes
Keywords: Utility assistance, bill credits, energy discounts, financial aid programs, utility savings.
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