OUC Offers Energy-Saving Tips as Heat Index Nears 105 Degrees

OUC Offers Energy-Saving Tips as Heat Index Nears 105 Degrees

ORLANDO, Fla. – With the hottest temperatures of the week expected to reach a heat index of 105 degrees, air conditioners will be working overtime across Central Florida. OUC – The Reliable One is sharing practical tips to help customers stay cool while keeping energy costs in check.

To help reduce energy usage during extreme heat, OUC recommends these easy-to-use tips:

• Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. Each degree you lower the thermostat below 78 can increase cooling costs by 6 to 8 percent or more.
• Replace dirty or clogged A/C filters.
• Keep A/C units set to “auto.” This prevents the fan from running constantly.
• Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms. Make sure they spin counterclockwise for a cooling effect and turn them off when leaving the room.
• Use window coverings. Shades, drapes, and blinds block heat from the sun, especially on east- and west-facing windows.
• Close windows and doors to keep cool air inside.
• Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads. Use cold water whenever possible to save on energy costs.
• Clear your dryer vent regularly to reduce fire risk and improve airflow.
• Check your water heater setting. It should be no higher than 125 degrees to prevent unnecessary energy use.

Visit OUC.com/HotWeather for more helpful tips.

Long-term ways to reduce cooling costs include:

• Check if your A/C unit is properly sized. If it’s time to replace it, OUC offers rebates on qualifying new units.
• Upgrade to a smart thermostat. These can help reduce cooling costs by up to 10 percent.
• Install ENERGY STAR® windows. Energy-efficient windows reduce heat gain and loss, helping to lower utility bills.

Financial Assistance and Billing Programs

To help customers manage their utility bills, OUC offers flexible payment solutions, including the Power Pass prepaid program, Budget Billing, and payment plans. Customers facing financial hardship may qualify for assistance through Project CARE, which provides emergency utility bill relief.

For more tools to help save energy and money, visit OUC.com/waystosave.

###

About OUC—The Reliable One
For more than 100 years, OUC—The Reliable One has provided exceptional value to its customers and community through the delivery of sustainable and reliable services and solutions. The utility provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to more than 400,000 accounts in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties. As OUC prepares for the next century, it remains committed to a goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 while supporting the Central Florida community with conservation, sustainability and energy efficiency resources. Visit www.ouc.com to learn more.