SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With cold weather just around the corner, there's never been a better time for customers to consider multiple energy-saving improvements, like upgrading their heating system, insulating their attic and sealing air leaks.

That's because besides saving money on heating bills and improving their comfort this winter, customers can take advantage of energy efficiency rebates of up to $6,500* from PG&E through the Energy Upgrade California® Home Upgrade Program.

"This program encourages homeowners to take a comprehensive, whole-home approach to energy efficiency to maximize savings and comfort, rather than focusing on piecemeal improvements," said Aaron Johnson, senior director of customer programs at PG&E.  

Customers work with participating contractors who determine which upgrades are best for their homes, complete the application and rebate forms, and do safety inspections. The goal: maximize home energy savings while improving comfort and safety.

"We participated in the program as soon as we purchased our home," said Ed Thomas, a PG&E customer living in the North Bay. "During the comprehensive assessment it turned out that although our home was only 12 years old, more than two-thirds of the air we were paying to heat and cool was going outside through leaks in the ducts. Our energy assessor also identified some hazardous conditions. Since doing the work our bills have been reduced dramatically and our house is much more comfortable than it used to be. The project qualified for a $3,000 rebate from PG&E."

Participating contractors first help customers identify sources of energy waste or discomfort such as duct or insulation leaks and appliance problems. They then provide a suggested list of improvements from which customers can choose to meet their budget and savings goals. The total rebates available under the program depend on which options the customer chooses.

Typical upgrades that can lower gas bills this winter—and keep chills at bay—include:

• Installing a more efficient heating system. If your furnace is more than 20 years old, a new, more efficient model can save you up to 20 percent a year in heating costs.
• Replacing your hot-water heater. If your heater is more than a dozen years old, check out the latest ENERGY STAR-qualified models. They can cut down on gas consumption—and potentially earn you a PG&E rebate of $200.
• Adding attic insulation and sealing hidden leaks in your building shell. You'll keep warmer in winter and cooler in summer with less energy use.
• Sealing and insulating air ducts. Poorly sealed ducts can lose 20 to 30 percent of heated air, costing you money and making your furnace work harder. (The same goes for your air conditioner in summer, of course).

For more ways to save energy and money at home, see PG&E's Home Money Saver page at http://www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney/moneysaver/#/default.

*Customers may also be eligible for rebates exceeding $6,500 based on their calculated energy savings. Work with your participating contractor or rater to calculate your upgrade's rebate.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric utilities in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 20,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation's cleanest energy to nearly 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit www.pge.com/ and www.pge.com/en/about/newsroom/index.page.

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SOURCE Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)