The Public Utility Commission Friday urged residents across the Commonwealth to consider ways to conserve energy and stay cool as temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic Region are expected to remain in the 90s through the weekend.

The PUC noted that hot and humid weather has prompted PJM – the region’s power transmission organization – to issue a “Hot Weather Alert” through July 1, preparing utilities and generation operators for conditions that could stress the power grid.

Consumers can find the PUC’s Summer Heat Wave fact sheet on the PUC website. Additional tips are available on the PUC Facebook page and Twitter account (@PA_PUC), or by searching the #WaysToStayCool hashtag.

Energy conservation and cooling suggestions include:

-- Turn off non-essential appliances and as many lights as possible.

-- Postpone using appliances that produce heat, such as clothes dryers, dishwashers and stoves until after 7 p.m. These appliances also use significant amounts of electricity adding to the demand on an electric infrastructure that is already stressed during peak hours due to heat.

-- Use ceiling fans to circulate the air, keeping rooms and you cooler.

-- Relax in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.

-- If you have window air conditioning units, close off rooms not in use.

-- Make sure all air conditioner filters are clean and in good shape.

-- Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and check air and return vents on a regular basis to keep circulation air paths clear.

-- On hot and humid days, set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees or off when you are away for long periods.

NewsClips:

PPL Reminds Customers To Be Prepared For Heat Wave

Kummer: Hot Weather Warning: These Philadelphia Neighborhoods Get Hottest In A Heat Wave

Cusick: New PA Law To Create More Revenue Options For Utilities

PA Towns Are Saving Millions By Teaming Up To Buy LED Lights

Philadelphia Modernizes Building Code, Addresses Climate Change

Related Story:

DEP Blog: Ways To Save Energy, Money This Summer

[Posted: June 29, 2018]

7/2/2018