With extreme high heat forecast for Middle Tennessee this weekend, it is critical that everyone prepare for this upcoming heatwave. To help customers conserve energy and reduce their electricity bill, NES is offering tips for staying cool during extreme heat.
Everyone’s at risk when temperatures rise above 90 degrees, but the elderly are most susceptible to heat-related illness and death. Air conditioning is the strongest protection against heat-related illness. If there’s no A/C at home, consider visiting a shopping mall or public library for a few hours, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Cooling centers may also be available throughout the community.
Traditionally, electric bills spike in June, July and August with warmer weather, and cooling costs account for approximately 40%-50% of your total bill amount. Here are a few easy things customers can do to better manage their energy use and keep electric bills down while temps continue to rise:
- Set your thermostat as close to 78 degrees as possible.
- Use a ceiling fan to regulate the ‘feels like’ temperature in your home instead of adjusting your thermostat. A ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise in the summer. Just remember to turn it off when you leave the room. Fans cool people, not rooms.
- Put off chores that involve electric appliances, such as dishwashing and laundry, during peak power times (10 am–8 pm).
- Opt for line drying clothes instead of using your dryer, which only adds to the heat and humidity in your home.
- Prepare food in the microwave instead of the oven for cooking your meals. If you must use the oven, open it as little as possible when in use.
- Turn off lights when you leave the room and unplug unused electronics.
- Keep garage doors closed as much as possible. This will help slow hot air from trickling into your home.
- Keep curtains and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home to block out some of the heat, while opening blinds on the shady side to provide natural lighting without raising the temperature.
- For more information, visit NES at <nespowernews.com/enjoy-more-savings-this-summer-with-these-energy-tips/>.
Customers struggling to pay their NES bill should call Customer Relations at 615-736-6900 for information on available assistance. For in-person service, customers may visit the NES lobby at 1214 Church Street, Monday-Friday from 8 am-6 pm.
