PUC offers #WaysToStayCool

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission urges 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 for several more days.

The Public Utility Commission notes that hot and humid weather has prompted PJM, the region’s power transmission organization, to issue a “Hot Weather Alert,” preparing utilities and generation operators for conditions that could stress the power grid.

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.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

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