Long Beach Utilities Offers Tips for an Energy Efficient Holiday

Published on December 18, 2025

Contact: Joy Contreras
Public Information Officer
Phone: (562) 355-1201
Email: joy.contreras@lbutilities.org

Long Beach Utilities offers Helpful Tips for an Energy Efficient Holiday

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LONG BEACH, CA – The City of Long Beach Utilities Department (LBUD) has a new online tool that residents and businesses can use to manage their gas bills this winter. Launched in November 2025, the City’s MyUtilityPortal allows customers to monitor natural gas usage in real time and make decisions about natural gas conservation to save money. 

“Long Beach customers are the most price-protected natural gas customers in California thanks to a 3-year contract executed in 2023 that prevent costs from rising above 2021 natural gas prices,” says Anatole Falagán, LBUD General Manager. “We also understand that families and business across the state are facing cost pressures more than ever and so we are encouraging every customer in Long Beach and Signal Hill to use the City’s new MyUtilityPortal to better understand your individual utility consumption usage, manage finances, and enjoy a safe and affordable holiday.” 

As the holiday season brings more cooking, cleaning, and hosting, it also puts more pressure on the city’s water, sewer, and natural gas systems to work as intended. To help customers keep their homes running smoothly and safely, the LBUD offers the following tips for a stress-free, efficient, and affordable holiday season:  

Apply for a Free Energy Efficient Appliance 

Long Beach Utilities is expanding its no-cost water and natural gas efficiency Direct Installation Appliance (DIA) Program, which provides eligible Long Beach and Signal Hill customers with high-efficiency devices and upgrades. The program aims to: 

  • Reduce monthly utility costs 

  • Support water and natural gas conservation 

  • Lower greenhouse gas emissions 

  • Improve long-term efficiency in homes across the city 

Visit LBUtilities.org/DIA to learn more.  

Track Your Utility Usage on MyUtilityPortal 

The City’s MyUtilityPortal offers utility account holders tools to: 

  • Monitor natural gas usage in real time 

  • View historical usage trends 

  • Identify energy patterns 

  • Make informed decisions to better manage seasonal costs 

MyUtilityPortal is a helpful tool during the winter season when residential natural gas usage typically rises due to increased heating and cooking needs. 

Sign up to access your account information on longbeach.gov/MyUtilityPortal. 

Receive Bill Help Assistance  

Long Beach Utilities also offers multiple income-qualified assistance programs to help households facing financial hardship. These programs support customers by reducing monthly utility bills or providing one-time assistance for qualified residents.

Please visit LBUtilities.org/BillHelp to learn more!  

Save Energy, Save Money  

Lower Your Water Heater Temperature 

  • Set your water heater to 120°F. It is hot enough for comfort and sanitation but uses significantly less natural gas than higher settings. 

Maintain Your Gas Furnace and Water Heater 

  • Annual tune-ups help appliances run safely and efficiently. Clean filters, check venting, and ensure proper airflow. 

Use Cold Water for Laundry When Possible 

  • Cold washes are effective with modern detergents and reduce natural gas needed to heat water. 

Improve Home Insulation and Seal Drafts 

  • Sealing doors and windows may help keep the mild winter heat indoors and reduce gas heater runtime. 

Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat 

  • During cooler months, set your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home and lower it when you’re away or sleeping. Long Beach rarely gets extreme cold, but small temperature adjustments can add up in savings. 

In Case of an Emergency 
 If you suspect a natural gas leak, please call Long Beach Utilities 24/7 Gas Dispatch at 562-570-2140. If you are experiencing a major water leak or sewage backup, please call Long Beach Utilities 24/7 Water Emergency Dispatch at 562-570-2390.  

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