As temperatures climb across Texas Xcel Energy is encouraging customers to take steps now to reduce energy use and manage electric bills during the summer months.
Cooling costs can make up nearly half of a typical residential electric bill in the summer. To help, Xcel Energy is sharing energysaving tips and urging customers to adopt simple, low-cost efficiency habits.
Some recommended measures include using programmable thermostats, running ceiling fans counterclockwise to enhance airflow, and closing blinds during the hottest parts of the day.
Other tips include switching to LED bulbs, running large appliances during cooler hours, and sealing air leaks in the home.
“Small changes can add up to significant savings during peak summer months,” the company said in a statement.
Quick ways to save energy with home heating and cooling include: Drawing the shades or blinds to keep rooms cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Run ceiling fans counterclockwise in the summer to circulate cooler, conditioned air. In the winter, run fans clockwise to push warm air down into the room.
Switch to LEDs, especially ENERGY STAR-qualified products, which typically use 7090% less energy and last 15 times longer than traditional bulbs. Walk through the home and decide which lights are use most often— replace those first.
Always turn off lights when leaving a room, even if only for a moment.
Put a lid on pots and pans when cooking to heat up food faster and save energy.
Opening the door of an oven can lower the cooking temperature by as much as 25 degrees, so look through the window instead.
Rinse dishes in cool water, wasting hot water that costs money to heat.
Fix leaky faucets (not just in the kitchen). A leaky faucet wastes gallons of water in a short period of time, and it’s very costly for hot water leaks.
Always wash full loads of clothes to maximize water use and savings. Take care of the dryer to help it run efficiently—clean the exhaust vent and lint trap.
In addition to efficiency upgrades, Xcel Energy is urging customers facing financial hardship to reach out before falling behind on payments.
Flexible payment arrangements are available on a case-by-case basis, typically ranging from three to six months. “Payment plans are tailored to each customer’s situation,” said Randy Cantu, senior director of contact center operations in Amarillo. “If customers are experiencing income loss or other financial difficulties, our account representatives can connect them to local assistance programs.”