Spire shares energy efficiency and safety tips ahead of freezing temperatures

ST. LOUIS (Nov. 6, 2025) — As families will soon turn on their furnaces for the first time with colder temperatures in the forecast, Spire has simple tips for customers to keep homes safe and energy efficient this winter heating season.

Energy Efficiency Tips

The Department of Energy says weatherizing a home or business can reduce energy costs by 35%. Here are tips for homeowners:

• Have a furnace serviced annually to keep systems operating efficiently and be sure to change the filter monthly or as needed.
• Consider installing a programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures while asleep or away from the home
• Install insulating drapes or shades to trap heat inside and to act as a barrier, keeping drafts out.
• Each morning, open curtains on south-facing windows to let sunlight naturally warm up the home. Be sure to close them each evening.
• Seal any areas around the home where air could sneak in. Areas around pipes that connect to the outside, chimneys, unfinished spaces and behind cupboards are notorious for drafts.
• Keep cold air out by closing a fireplace damper when it’s not in use.

Safety

• Only heat homes with appliances specifically designed for space heating, such as a furnace. Never attempt to heat a home with a stove, oven, grill or anything not designed for space heating. While electric space heaters are great for warming small spaces, they must be used with care and should not be used to heat an entire home.
• Prevent pipes from freezing and warm air from leaking out by insulating pipes and opening cabinets.
• Keep back-up generators a safe distance from the home, and never operate a generator indoors.
• And remember: Natural gas smells like rotten eggs. If a customer smells gas or hears a hissing sound, they should leave immediately and call Spire or 911. When leaving, avoid creating a spark — and using or turning electronic devices (such as a light switch or cell phone) on or off.
• And for additional advice, visit spireenergy.com/tips.