Community Corner
ComEd Prepares for Chicago's Winter, Offers Tips
The utility has been busy preparing its system for ice and snow, according to a written statement, and is now offering customers more ways to manage their bills.
With the official start of winter only a few weeks away, ComEd has taken steps to ensure the electric grid—and customers—are ready for whatever the season brings.
The utility has prepared for high winds, ice and snow; including conducting inspections and preventive maintenance for thousands of miles of power lines and more than 850 substations.
Over the last 10 years, the company has invested more than $9 billion in the electrical grid in Illinois to improve reliability for customers, according to a news release.
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“ComEd is making significant investments in its electrical system to reduce the frequency and duration of power outages, in winter and all year round,” Anne Pramaggiore, ComEd president and CEO, said in a news release.
She also ecnourages customers to take simple, low-cost steps to save energy.
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“We are urging Chicagoans to keep themselves safe and warm this winter season and be sure to check in on any vulnerable or elderly neighbors," Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said, in the release. "... The city of Chicago, its sister agencies and its partners—like ComEd—will work together around the clock this winter to keep the Windy City’s streets clear, our homes warm and people safe.”
ComEd also offers the following tips to help customers safely prepare their homes for winter weather, manage their energy usage and reduce electricity costs.
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Inspect the caulking and weather-stripping around all windows, doors and openings for utility services, replacing as necessary. Making these improvements could result in savings of up to 20 percent on annual heating bills.
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Have home heating systems cleaned and inspected by a professional each year to ensure safety and optimum efficiency. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure proper functioning.
Keep three feet of space between space heaters and any surfaces that could burn, including walls and bedding. Choose space heaters with automatic shut-off in case they tip over.
Reverse the rotation of ceiling fan blades, which should spin clockwise at low speed during the winter months, so the warm air that has risen can be re-distributed around the room.
Visit ComEd.com and select “Use My Energy Tools” beneath the “My Usage” tab. Customers can evaluate past energy usage and learn about more ways to keep their homes energy efficient.
ComEd also wants to help its customers who may be struggling to pay their electricity bills.
The company offers financial assistance programs for customers who qualify, including: Residential Special Hardship grants, C.H.A.M.P. (ComEd Helps Active Military Personnel) and Nonprofit Special Hardship programs, while funds are available.
Gift certificates are available, too, so customers can help friends or family members pay their bills this holiday season.
Editor's note: The above information was provided by ComEd.
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