NEW YORK, NY –With high temperatures and humidity expected to stick with New Yorkers the next few days, Con Edison reminds customers to stay safe, stay comfortable and watch their energy usage. Here are some simple tips.
1. Set your AC to the highest comfortable temperature. Every degree you lower the thermostat drives up your bill by 6 percent.
2. To reduce heat and moisture in your home, run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside.
3. Cook with a microwave, or barbecue.
4. When the AC is running, close doors to keep cool air in and hot air out. Shop owners are reminded not to keep front doors open while running air conditioning inside. This wastes energy and puts a strain on the grid.
5. Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows.
6. Use ceiling fans instead of your AC, if possible. Ceiling fans use less energy.
7. Turn off AC units, lights and other appliances when not at home and use a timer or smart technology to turn on your AC before arriving home.
8. Replace old appliances with new energy efficient Energy Star appliances.