As hot weather settles across Pennsylvania, and the summer season officially arrives, the Public Utility Commission is encouraging consumers to explore simple ways to stay cool and ways to save, conserving energy and keeping summer power bills manageable.

Additionally, consumers struggling with high utility bills are urged to #CallUtilitiesNow to discuss affordability options.

#WaysToStayCool

There are several simple things most consumers can do, at little or no added cost, to increase summer comfort while managing power usage and energy costs:

• Fan yourself: Fans circulate the air, keeping you feeling cooler, even at higher temps.

• Follow the shade: Relax in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.

• Block the heat: Use window blinds and coverings at the sunniest time of day to reduce unwanted heat buildup.

• Don’t add extra heat: Postpone using heat-producing appliances, such as clothes dryers, dishwashers and stoves until it is cooler.

• Cookout, anyone?: Consider cooking with outdoor barbecue grills or microwaves, rather than stoves or ovens, which add indoor heat.

Ways to Save

Conserve energy and save money while staying cool:

• Check your thermostat: The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill.

• Clean is “green”: Clean and replace air conditioner filters regularly and make sure air circulation paths are clear.

• Power off: Turn off nonessential appliances and lights to reduce power use and unwanted heat.

• Don’t cool unneeded space: Close off unused rooms and adjust air vents or thermostats to avoid unnecessary cooling expenses.

• Keep the heat outside: Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.