SWEPCO Shares SWEPCO Shares Tips to Beat the Heat: Top Takeaways
- A stretch of high temperatures expected across our service territory is underway. With highs above 90 degrees and feel like temperatures hovering well above100 with lots of humidity, air conditioners may be working hard to keep homes cool, which increases energy use and electric bills.
- When temperatures rise, there are simple steps to help save energy and save money. Find tips at https://www.swepco.com/savings/home/money/incentives/.
- Customers that have a smart meter can also check their energy dashboard for personalized recommendations.
- When temperatures rise, there are simple steps customers can take to help save energy and money.
Ways to Save and Beat the Summer Heat
A stretch of high temperatures across our service territory is underway. With highs above 90 degrees, coupled with high humidity, feel like temperatures are hovering near 100! As a result, air conditioners may be working hard to keep homes cool, which increases energy use and electric bills.
"Extremely hot, summer weather can send your cooling devices into overtime causing your energy usage and electric bill to go up," said Paul Pratt, Customer Services & Marketing Director. "SWEPCO wants to help our customers by sharing simple steps to save energy and money."
Energy-saving tips:
When temperatures rise, there are simple steps customers can take to help save energy and money:
- Set thermostats just a few degrees higher, especially when you aren't home.
- Avoid using heat-producing appliances such as ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
- Keep windows covered during the day, especially those facing south to keep out heat.
- Ensure ceiling fans are spinning counterclockwise to push cooler air down.
- Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use.
- Find incentives: https://www.swepco.com/savings/home/money/incentives/
- Monitor your energy consumption and devise a personalized plan. Check your energy dashboard for personalized recommendations.
"We know it's difficult when your amount due is more than you're expecting," Pratt added. "We have ways to help and want to make sure our customer are aware."
Here's a few ways SWEPCO could help:
- Enroll in the AMP (Average Monthly Payment) Plan. AMP evens out payments throughout the year to account for seasonal spikes in usage. Bills adjust on a 12-month rolling average and change only slightly each month, making bills more predictable. More information is also available here.
- Set up a payment plan. In cases where bill payments have fallen behind, it may make sense to consider setting up a payment arrangement. Phone representatives can describe specifics based on each situation.
- Find help for low-income households. Receive assistance with utility bills and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through SWEPCO's affordability tool. Complete a short six-question survey to get started and find available help. www.swepco.com/billhelp.
- Prevent Disconnection of a Friend or Relative. You can help someone avoid electric service disconnection with our Third-Party Notification program. This free service is often used on accounts of those who are elderly or ill, but it can be used for any customer. Learn more about Preventing Disconnection.
Learn more at www.SWEPCO.com.
