PUC Offers Energy Saving, Cooling Tips For Summer’s First Hot Weather Alert

The Public Utility Commission Wednesday urged residents across the state to consider ways to conserve energy and stay cool as a temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic Region are expected to rise into the 90’s later this week.

The PUC noted that forecasts for hot and humid weather have prompted PJM – the region’s power transmission organization – to issue a “Hot Weather Alert” for July 7, preparing utilities and generation operators for conditions that could stress the power grid.

Consumers can find the PUC’s Summer Heat Wave fact sheet. Additional tips are available on our 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; and

-- 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.