Winter weather has arrived, with unseasonably cold fronts working through the Hill Country and more on the way. Winter temperatures can result in higher consumption of electricity because the difference between cold outdoor temperatures and heated indoor comfort is usually much larger than between outdoor temperatures and cooled indoor air in the summer. PEC has historically experienced higher consumption in the winter.
PEC members can follow these tips to stay comfortable and help avoid high winter bills:
• Set your thermostat to 68 degrees when at home.
• Lower your thermostat even more when away.
• Remember that turning a heater off when away causes it to work overtime when turned back on.
• Make sure HVAC filters are cleaned or replaced monthly. Heating systems run more efficiently with clean filters.
• Keep vents free from obstructions which could keep warm air from heating your home.
• Open curtains or blinds during the day to let in the sun’s heat. Close them at night to block drafts and insulate cold windows.
• Have your HVAC system serviced every year by a certified technician.
Members also can go online to check unbilled electric use with the Co-op’s MyUse Energy Analyzer. Go to www.pec.coop/myuse to learn how to more closely monitor and take control of PEC bills.
More from Community News.
