(PRNewswire)–Due to colder weather and rain predicted for parts of the SoCalGas service territory, Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) has issued a “Dial It Down” Alert, encouraging Southern Californians to conserve natural gas until further notice.

Customers are asked to conserve energy by reducing their natural gas use, specifically in the evenings when natural gas is typically at peak use. During periods of cold weather, local demand for natural gas for home heating, hot water, and cooking can increase rapidly and put a strain on the natural gas system.

Dial It Down Alerts are similar to Flex Alerts issued by the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) that call on customers to voluntarily conserve electricity for a specific period of time.

Conservation Tips

To reduce their natural gas use during the alert period, SoCalGas customers can take simple steps, like setting their thermostat to 68 degrees when home and 55 degrees when not home. Others helpful tips include:

  • Washing clothes with cold water;
  • Taking shorter hot showers;
  • Reducing the temperature on water heaters;
  • Running only full loads of dishes and clothes;
  • Washing clothes with cold water;
  • Using low-flow shower heads;
  • Keeping windows and doors closed when the heater is on; and
  • Dressing warmer.

More information on SoCalGas’ Dial It Down Alert energy conservation program can be found at socalgas.com/dialitdown.