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Senate Box 203025
292 Main Capitol
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Ph: 717-787-7084
FAX: 717-772-2755
TTY: 800-364-1581

Warren
315 Second Avenue
Suite 203
Warren, PA 16365
Ph: 814-726-7201
FAX: 814-726-7012
Toll Free: 877-787-7084

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410 Main Street
Brockway, PA 15824
Ph: 814-265-2030
FAX: 814-265-2040

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5 Main Street
Wellsboro, PA 16901
Ph: 570-724-5231
FAX: 570-723-5119


For Immediate Release
October 6, 2008
Contact: Carol Maravic
(717) 787-6725

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Sen. Scarnati Urges Consumers to Take Steps to Conserve Energy, Lower Fuel Bills

Consumers concerned about rising fuel costs can take some quick, easy and commonsense energy conservation steps to help keep their heating bills down this winter, according to Senator Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson).   

Scarnati said that by inspecting indoor and outdoor heating oil tanks for potential problems and practicing energy conservation at home, families can better manage their utility bills, particularly with the price of heating fuels expected to rise significantly this summer.

"Performing basic maintenance on heating and cooling systems and practicing energy conservation at home is one way consumers can manage rising energy costs," Scarnati said. "A first step in homes heated with oil is to inspect indoor and outdoor heating oil tanks for potential problems prior to refilling."

Consumers should do visual inspection of the tank to look for signs of rusting or leaks.  Problems should be reported to the oil company and corrected by a professional.

He also cautioned consumers with natural gas heating systems to also have their systems checked for leaks. Recent home energy audits conducted by the Philadelphia-based nonprofit Energy Coordinating Agency found virtually every home with natural gas heat it inspected had leaks, some homes as many as eight.

Other simple and commonsense improvements homeowners can make include:

  • Sealing and insulate, usually starting with the attic;

  • Installing a programmable thermostat;

  • Upgrading the heating system;

  • Replacing old appliances with high-efficiency ENERGY STAR units;

  • Switching to energy-efficient lighting;

  • Installing  storm windows and insulating curtains or shades; and

  • Replacing or add energy-efficiency features to a home's water heater

Tips on energy conservation and residential heating oil tanks inspections are available at www.depweb.state.pa.us by using the keywords "Energy" and "Storage Tanks."

Information is also available at www.StayWarmPA.com, including conservation tips and resources for getting financial assistance with utility bills and home weatherization.