PowerStream Offers Conservation Tips to Customers

Hotter Than Usual Summer Temperatures Could See Increase in Electricity Bills

MarketWired.com
Aug. 08, 2016

PowerStream is offering a number of conservation tips to help customers better manage their electricity costs during a summer experiencing hotter than usual temperatures.

Energy usage climbs substantially during periods of hot weather, especially for those customers who use air conditioning, dehumidifiers or have a pool. Also, appliances such as refrigerators and freezers work harder to maintain temperature under these conditions.

Electricity bills usually increase as a result of warmer weather, which is why PowerStream is offering these tips to help customers mitigate the impact:

• If you have central air conditioning, use a programmable thermostat to turn off or increase your home temperature when you are away or during on-peak price periods.
• As an alternative to air conditioning, use ceiling and portable fans to circulate the air when you are in the room -- they cost pennies to operate and can provide comfort in spaces that are not air conditioned.
• On cool nights, open the windows and use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to help remove warm air from inside your home.
• Use a clothesline or clothes rack to dry your clothes instead of a dryer.
• Use solar outdoor lighting for landscaping, and convert incandescent light bulbs to LED light bulbs.
• Use curtains or blinds to shade windows during hot sunny days.
• Whenever possible, use the microwave, toaster oven or barbecue.
• Put your swimming pool pump on a timer and consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® certified unit.

In addition to conserving electricity, PowerStream also points out that reducing water consumption can help lower household costs. The utility recommends customers consider the following:

• Use rain barrels to collect and store rainwater from your rooftop, which can be used for watering plants and gardens.
• Keep a jug of drinking water in the fridge instead of running the tap until the water is cold.
• Install low-flow shower heads and reduce time spent in the shower.
• Don't cut grass too short; leave clippings on your lawn to work as mulch and retain moisture.
• Minimize lawn watering. If you have to water your lawn, do it in the evening or early morning for less evaporation. During the summer your lawn only needs 2.5 cm of water a week.