Many homeowners are struggling between the urge to turn up the thermostat during the bitterly cold weather and trying to save on their energy bills and local residents, apparently, are not alone.

An email has been sent to Binghamton University students asking them to do their best to conserve energy.

BU says it is supporting New York State Electric and Gas’ work in providing safe and adequate energy to heat the area by encouraging residents on the Vestal campus to close doors and windows, turn off any unnecessary electronics and refrain from using space heaters.

Local residents are also encouraged to try to save some energy by keeping an eye on the thermostat and not run the heat higher than 70 when someone is home and 58 when they are away, close off rooms that aren’t is use, open curtains if it is sunny and close them when it’s cloudy or at night.

Residents should also make sure their furnaces are properly maintained and inspected, including changing filters and maintaining exhaust systems like chimneys and vents.

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