Summer is a time for rest and relaxation. However, it also marks the time of year when the rising outside temperatures can significantly ramp up household electricity usage.

In view of this, as well as recent increases in electricity prices across the province, the implementation of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) and an expected hotter than average summer, PowerStream is encouraging everyone to be mindful of how and when they use their electricity over the summer season by learning how to “Power Down Your Summer Electricity Costs”.

Here are just a few small changes that can make a big difference in your electricity usage this summer:

• Keep the temperature at your home 4-5° C below the outside air temperature (e.g. if it is 30° C outside, the thermostat for your air conditioner should be set no lower than 25° C).
• Use a programmable thermostat to keep the temperature regulated according to the different times of the day.
• Clean or replace your air conditioning filter monthly. Dirty filters can restrict air flow and reduce your system’s efficiency.
• When on vacation and away from home, turn off your air conditioner or program the thermostat to turn on just before you get home.
• Close blinds and curtains during the day (especially those windows that get direct sun) to reduce the outside heat penetration into the home.
• Use a clothesline when possible and let the sun and outside air naturally dry your clothes.
• Use ceiling fans in conjunction with your central air conditioning (this may allow you to raise the temperature setting on your thermostat by 2° C, reducing your electricity use by approximately 10%).
• Avoid unnecessarily heating up your home on hot days by using the oven or stove to cook. Use the microwave or outdoor gas barbecue instead.

These and other useful tips as well as information on our conservation programs can be found in the Energy Management section on our website.

Since you have the power to control the amount of electricity you consume each month, it is within your means to “Power Down Your Summer Electricity Costs”.

For information on why you should take control of your electricity costs this summer and the breakdown of the various charges that are assessed (most of which are beyond PowerStream’s control) click here.