Stay Cool and Save Energy this Fourth of July Weekend
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. –Scorching temperatures are forecast throughout the Fourth of July weekend. With more people at home, hosting gatherings and running air conditioners, electricity use is expected to increase. Santee Cooper is sharing simple ways customers can stay comfortable while helping manage their energy bills.
“South Carolinians can manage their energy costs during the holiday weekend,” said Marty Watson, Senior Director of Commercial and Customer Service. “Simple steps like adjusting your thermostat a few degrees, using fans and shifting energy-intensive chores outside of peak hours can make a meaningful difference in customer bills.”
Air conditioners have the biggest impact on summer electric bills, and during periods of extreme heat, they have to work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Consider raising your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting and using fans to circulate air.
These tips can help keep your home cool and reduce energy use:
- Use a smart thermostat to automatically precool your home before peak hours and adjust the temperature while you’re away celebrating.
- Use LED lighting, turn off unnecessary lights and unplug chargers, computers and other electronics when not in use.
- Close blinds and curtains during the day to block sunlight and naturally keep the heat out.
- Seal drafts with weatherstripping and outlet gaskets to keep cool air inside.
- Run dishwashers, clothes dryers and other major appliances during the coolest parts of the day. If possible, avoid using large appliances during summer Peak Hours (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to save money and help Defeat The Peak.
- Keep the heat outside by avoiding using the oven, if possible, and using a grill instead.
- Avoid streaming on gaming consoles, which often use more electricity than streaming through your television.
For more energy-saving tips and information about programs that can help lower energy use, visit santeecooper.com. Customers can also learn how to save money at defeatthepeaksc.com.
For more than 90 years, Santee Cooper has been serving the people of South Carolina. The utility is South Carolina’s largest power provider and the ultimate source of electricity for 2 million people across the state. Through its affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible electricity and water services, and through innovative partnerships and initiatives that attract and retain industry and jobs, Santee Cooper helps power South Carolina. To learn more, visit www.santeecooper.com and follow #PoweringSC on social media.