On June 17, as millions of Pennsylvanians experience a surge in hot weather, and the official start of summer arrives later this week, the Public Utility Commission urged consumers to explore simple #WaysToStayCool and #WaysToSave – helping to conserve energy and keep summer power bills manageable.

#WaysToStayCool

Tip: Circulating air with a fan can help you feel up to 4 degrees cooler, without needing to lower your thermostat.

There are several simple things most consumers can do, at little or no added cost, to increase summer comfort while managing power usage and energy costs:

-- Fan Yourself – Fans circulate the air, keeping you feeling cooler even at higher temps.

-- Follow the Shade – Spend time in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.

-- Block the Heat – Use window blinds and coverings at the sunniest time of day to reduce heat buildup.

-- Don’t Add Extra Heat – Postpone using heat-producing appliances like clothes dryers, dishwashers, and stoves until it is cooler.

-- Cookout, Anyone? – Consider using outdoor barbecue grills or microwaves instead of stoves or ovens, which can increase indoor heat.

#WaysToSave

Tip: Every degree you raise your air conditioning thermostat above 72 degrees can save up to 3% on cooling expenses.

In addition to staying cool, the PUC highlights several #WaysToSave energy and money:

-- Check your Thermostat – The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling bill.

-- Clean is “Green” – Regularly clean and replace air conditioner filters and ensure air circulation paths are clear.

-- Power Off – Turn off non-essential appliances and lights to reduce power use and unwanted heat.

-- Don’t Cool Unneeded Space – Close off unused rooms and adjust air vents or thermostats to avoid unnecessary cooling expenses.

-- Keep the Heat Outside – Seal cracks to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.

Save Energy

Tip: For more energy-saving tips, visit PAPowerSwitch.com and check your utility's website for conservation and efficiency resources.

A variety of energy conservation and savings tips are available on the PUC’s official electric shopping website – PAPowerSwitch.com.

Also, many utilities provide information on their websites about conservation, energy efficiency, energy use assessments, and other tools to help manage energy usage.

Consumers should explore these resources for additional tips on saving money.

Shopping for Cheaper Energy Suppliers

Visit the PAPowerSwitch.com to shop for cheaper electricity suppliers and visit PAGasSwitch.com to shop for cheaper natural gas suppliers.

Click Here for the complete announcement.

NewsClips:

-- StateImpactPA - Rachel McDevitt: Heat Wave Expected For PA - Here’s What To Do

-- TribLive: Western PA Could Break 100 Degree Record This Week; Residents Cautioned

[Posted: June 17, 2024]

6/24/2024