AKRON, Ohio — The heat is on!
As sizzling hot temperatures take hold across Northeast Ohio this week, FirstEnergy says they’re “prepared to meet the anticipated increase in customer electricity usage.”
“In addition to proactive maintenance and inspections, FirstEnergy’s electric companies are reviewing staffing levels and hot weather operational procedures to ensure any localized power outages caused by excessive heat are handled promptly,” according to a press release from the company. “The companies will also delay any non-critical, planned outage work scheduled for next week in areas with extreme heat.”
FirstEnergy also provided the following list of tips to help customers “use electricity wisely during this period of high demand”:
- Set thermostats as high as comfort will allow.
- Use fans – moving air cools skin faster, resulting in greater comfort on hot days.
- During sunny weather, close drapes or blinds on windows facing the sun to prevent direct radiant heating from impacting interior temperatures.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat to keep temperatures higher when no one is home and to reduce the temperature before arrival back home.
- Seal any leaks with caulk or weather stripping to prevent hot air from sneaking into your home.
- Check air conditioner and furnace fan filters. Clogged filters waste energy and money by forcing HVAC systems to work harder than necessary.
- Avoid using heat-producing appliances during the hottest hours of the day. The less heat produced at home, the less work the air conditioner must do.