With the hot temperatures in store, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission is offering tips on how to conserve and save on energy.
Officials say raising the thermostat just a few degrees can reduce cooling costs. They also encourage you to turn off lights and devices that aren’t in use.
Some other helpful tips from the PUC:
Simple steps can make a big difference in staying safe and comfortable during hot weather, even with limited use of air conditioning:
- Use Fans – Fans create airflow that can help you feel several degrees cooler without lowering your thermostat.
- Follow the Shade – Spend time in rooms that stay cooler and avoid direct sunlight.
- Block the Heat – Use curtains or blinds during the sunniest hours to reduce indoor temperatures.
- Skip the Heat – Delay use of stoves, dryers, and dishwashers until cooler hours to avoid generating unnecessary heat.
- Grill or Chill – Use outdoor grills or microwaves instead of ovens to reduce indoor heat buildup.
- Adjust the Thermostat – Raising your thermostat just a few degrees can reduce cooling costs by several percent.
- Clean is “Green” – Replace or clean A/C filters regularly and keep vents unblocked to ensure good airflow.
- Turn It Off – Switch off lights and devices that aren’t in use to avoid both heat and wasted energy.
- Cool Only What’s Needed – Close off unused rooms and vents to focus cooling where it’s needed most.
- Seal It Up – Keep warm air outside by sealing cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
Important Note for Customers Without Power
Those experiencing outages should take extra precautions to stay safe:
- Avoid Downed Lines – Always assume downed wires are live. Stay clear and report them immediately.
- Be Cautious with Generators – Operate outdoors and never connect directly to home wiring.
- Use Flashlights, Not Candles – Reduce the risk of fire during nighttime outages.
- Limit Appliance Use After Power Returns – Wait 15 minutes before turning on major devices once power is restored.
- Stay Informed – Monitor local news, utility websites, or mobile apps for outage updates and safety alerts.
