As a prolonged stretch of extreme heat settles over the Tennessee Valley, Huntsville Utilities is encouraging customers to take steps to reduce electricity use and help keep summer power bills under control.
The utility said outdoor temperatures have the biggest impact on residential energy consumption, particularly as air conditioners work harder to maintain cooler indoor temperatures.
“The greater the difference between the outside temperature and your thermostat setting, the longer your HVAC unit will run, increasing your energy consumption,” Huntsville Utilities said in a news release.
The utility recommends setting thermostats as high as comfortably possible and using ceiling fans rotating counter-clockwise to improve air circulation and create a cooling effect. Air conditioners are typically the largest users of electricity during the summer months.
The reminder comes as the National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for the Tennessee Valley through Tuesday evening, with daytime temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s and heat index values climbing as high as 109 degrees.
In addition to adjusting thermostat settings, Huntsville Utilities recommends:
- Running washers, dryers and dishwashers after sunset.
- Closing blinds and curtains on the sunny side of the home during the day.
- Keeping air vents unobstructed.
- Replacing HVAC air filters regularly.
- Unplugging unused electronics and turning off lights when leaving a room.
- Checking doors and windows for drafts that allow warm air inside.
- Using a dehumidifier to improve indoor comfort.
The utility also noted that hotter weather often leads to higher water use as residents irrigate lawns and gardens. Customers are encouraged to water before sunrise or after sunset to reduce evaporation.
Customers can monitor their electricity use through the Huntsville Utilities mobile app or the My HU online customer portal, allowing them to track usage during periods of high demand.
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