CENTERPOINT ENERGY, INC.
Groundhog Day serves as seasonal energy efficiency reminder for CenterPoint Energy customers of tips and tools available to manage energy use

On Groundhog Day yesterday, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, forecasting six more weeks of cooler temperatures. CenterPoint Energy is reminding customers that the company offers tips, tools and programs that can help them increase the energy efficiency of their homes and save money on heating or cooling costs, no matter the season.

CenterPoint customers have enjoyed significant savings by participating in the company's energy efficiency programs, including installing more efficient appliances for heating, cooling and cooking and weatherproofing with air sealing and insulation. For customers who need additional assistance, CenterPoint offers payment arrangements and billing programs to meet customers' needs and budgets and can refer them to agencies that offer energy assistance to eligible households.

"At CenterPoint, we have tips, tools and programs to help you stay comfortable inside your home at any time of the year. We know the colder temperatures we've seen this winter can mean higher heating costs, and with six more weeks of cold weather ahead we want to make sure customers are prepared," said Tony Gardner, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at CenterPoint. "By taking some small and easy actions to increase your homes' efficiency, you can save energy and money all year round."

CenterPoint wants to remind customers of some actions they can take to reduce their energy use:

• Regularly perform furnace maintenance: Service your furnace annually and check the air filters monthly to increase the efficiency of your equipment.
   
• Adjust your temperature: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust your cooling or heating temperature when you're asleep or away from home to maximize potential savings.
   
• Seal air leaks: Use caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors to seal air leaks to reduce drafts inside your home for more efficient heating and cooling.
   
• Use the sun: When it's hot outside, keep window coverings closed to keep a cooler indoor temperature. When it's cold outside, open your window coverings to capture warmth from the sun during the day, and close your coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
   
• Choose energy smart appliances: When upgrading appliances, look for ENERGY STAR®-certified products for optimal efficiency. Energy efficiency rebates may be available for qualifying appliances.

Customers can learn more about energy-saving tips and ways to manage their energy use and monthly bills at CenterPointEnergy.com/SavingsTips.