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Eversource Preps For Increased Energy Use In Stamford As Temps Soar

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- As temperatures continue to rise in Fairfield County Wednesday, Eversource is offering customers tips on how to stay cool and save energy.

Eversource is reminding Fairfield County customers of energy efficiency tips to keep their homes cool and costs low during the scorching days of summer.

Eversource is reminding Fairfield County customers of energy efficiency tips to keep their homes cool and costs low during the scorching days of summer.

Photo Credit: File

“During the summer months, demand for electricity increases by 75 percent,” said Steve Gilkey, Eversource Connecticut’s vice president of electric field operations. “So, we begin preparing for this increased demand before the hot weather arrives by conducting ground and aerial inspections of the overhead electrical system in the cooler months. This way, we can detect any issues in advance and work to ensure reliable service for our customers during these hot summer days. If there are issues, our crews are ready to respond.” 

Eversource is currently in the third year of its system reliability plan in the state, a five-year grid modernization project designed to strengthen its electric delivery system. The project includes installing new poles, wires and related system, as well as increased tree-trimming and inspections.

With people turning up their air conditioners during the sweltering weather, Eversource is reminding residents of a few easy, low-cost steps they can take to increase their energy efficiency.

  • Increase the temperature on air conditioners: Keep air conditioners set at a moderate temperature throughout the day. Cranking it up at the end of the day after work or school uses more electricity.
  • Keep air conditioner filters and coils clean: Clean filters and coils at least every three months. Dirty filters block air flow and make it harder to deliver cool air.
  • Use air conditioning and fans together to keep energy costs low: Setting thermostats just two degrees higher than normal on hot days and using ceiling fans for circulation can lower air conditioning costs by up to 14 percent. Turning ceiling fan blades to the reverse setting creates a downdraft and "wind chill" effect, making the room feel cooler. Remember to turn off fans when leaving the room.
  • Seal home cracks and gaps: Use clay caulking cord or regular gel caulking to seal cracks or gaps in walls, outlets, windows and door frames to keep cool air from escaping and letting hot air in.
  • Cook dinner outdoors: Cooking indoors heats up the kitchen and makes the cooling system work harder, so cook outside when possible.

Find more energy saving tips from Eversource's energy efficiency expert Enoch Lenge at www.eversource.com.

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