With sweltering temperatures expected across Connecticut over the next several days, air conditioners and fans will be working overtime. High electricity usage during a heat wave can put a strain on the electric system, but Eversource is prepared to meet that demand and is offering tips on how customers can save energy, stay comfortable and keep electric bills low.
“Typically the demand for electricity grows by 75 percent during peak summer months,” said Steve Gilkey, Vice President of Electric Field Operations for Eversource in Connecticut.
“We prepare well in advance of the summer months to ensure the system is able to handle the additional demand, especially for long stretches of extreme heat. This includes conducting ground and aerial inspections of the overhead and underground systems in the cooler months to detect and resolve any issues ahead of time. It’s all about ensuring reliable service for our customers.”
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— an announcement from Eversource
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To help customers endure the peak of summertime heat, Eversource is offering easy tips to keep homes more comfortable and energy bills low.
- Increase the temperature on air conditioners. Keep air conditioners set at a moderate temperature throughout the day; cranking the unit up after work uses more electricity. Programmable thermostats or temperature timers can also help keep costs manageable, especially when away from home.
- Keep air conditioner filters and coils clean. Clean air conditioner filters and coils at least every three months. Dirty filters block air flow, reducing efficiency and making it harder to deliver the cool air.
- Don’t block air flow. Keep air vents clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains and rugs. For those with central air and floor vents, consider using vent deflectors to direct and increase the reach of cooled air.
- Seal home cracks and gaps. Seal cracks or gaps in walls and outlets, and window and door frames, to keep cool air from escaping and letting hot air in.
- Save major appliance use until the evening. Help conserve energy by using appliances like clothes washers and dryers early in the morning or late in the evening, when there is less demand on the electric system.
Eversource’s energy efficiency expert, Enoch Lenge, offers additional tips on saving energy and money atwww.eversource.com.
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Editor’s note: Eversource has also recommended these other energy-saving tips and given this information about hot weather electricity use (the utility has even more tips on its website):
- Every degree you lower the thermostat [on your air conditioner] can drive up your bill by 6 percent.
- Close window blinds and drapes that face the sun to block out the heat – especially during peak sun hours.
- Use ceiling and other fans along with the AC for better circulation of cool air. Just remember fans cool people, not rooms — so remember to turn them off when the room is vacant.
- Cook with a microwave or crock pot or barbecue outside whenever possible.