What the hot weather means for your energy use and safety.
With hot weather spikes come bill increases. See how you can take action to stay comfortable and lower your energy use below:
Learn three factors that affect high bill costs in the summer.
Discover ways you can lower your bill with our energy-saving tips.
Stay cool and safe with our extreme heat safety information.
If you’re having trouble with your bills there are payment plans and assistance available.
3 Factors That Impact Your Summer Bill
We want to bring you the most reliable service we possibly can, so we make updates to our natural gas pipelines and work to modernize our electric grid. The cost of these upgrades are included in our supply charges.
The cost of delivering electricity and natural gas to you can go up and down. Electricity costs fluctuate, so the rate is set to make sure this cost is covered. For natural gas, you only pay what we pay. There is no markup. But if the cost of natural gas rises, as it has recently, the cost on your bill will rise as well.
As temperatures dip or soar, your heating or cooling equipment will also run more causing your energy costs to rise.
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Quick Tips to Save this Summer
Save money by shifting your electricity use to mornings, nights and weekends. You can learn more by visiting our Summer Rate page.
According to ENERGY STAR®, cooling makes up for nearly 17% of energy use each year. During the hottest days, AC use is an even bigger contributor to your bill than average. Taking a few simple steps can have huge impacts on your bill.
Tips to reduce your AC use:
Take a look at these energy-saving ideas:
Water heating is typically the third-largest energy expense, making up for about 14% of energy bills. Here are ways you can cut down on this expense:
Did you know that devices continue to draw power even when they appear to be turned off? This can cost up to $200 a year in wasted energy. Fight this by regularly unplugging your devices, or let a smart power strip do the work for you. The features of advanced power strips make it easier than ever to ensure devices are fully powered down.
Learn more about smart strips equipped with motion sensors, voltage sensitivity controls and master switches, and see which model is right for you in our
Advanced Power Strips infographic.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could save up to 30% on energy costs every year when sealing air leaks in your home. Inspect and seal around the following areas to help save the most:
Check out our window and insulation rebates to save.
Small, meaningful changes to how we use energy can make a big impact by saving money. See how you can make these changes with our DIY tips, special rebates and programs and whole home solutions.
Learn How to SaveIf you're looking for extra ways to save, we offer programs that reward you for using less energy during times of high demand.
See ProgramsHow to Run Your Appliances Efficiently
Your dishwasher uses hot water from your water heater to do its job, which can add up over time. Here’s how you can save on water heating:
Cook delicious meals and help lower energy costs by following these suggestions:
Your refrigerator/freezer is one of the biggest energy users in your home. These tips can help you waste less and save more:
Washers and dryers are some of the biggest energy users in the house. By paying a little extra attention on how you use energy here, you can prevent your money going down the drain:
Checklist to Stay Safe in High Heat
3 Heat Illnesses to Watch For
Heat cramp symptoms include very painful muscle spasms that occur in the:
If you suspect you may have heat cramps make sure to rest, drink water or an electrolyte sports drink and avoid strenuous activity for several hours.
Watch out for the following symptoms of heat exhaustion:
If you suspect you may have heat exhaustion, make sure to cool down and rest, drink water or an electrolyte sports drink and put cool, wet cloths on your body. If your symptoms last longer than an hour or get worse, seek medical attention.
Watch out for the following symptoms of heat stroke:
If you suspect you may have heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or go to the hospital immediately. Do not drink anything.