With temperatures nearing 100 this week, Reliant Energy has offered Texans tips on how to manage their energy usage this summer, especially with most people still at home:
- Raise thermostat setting. During the summer months, follow the 4x4 principle by setting your thermostat four degrees higher when you’re away from home for more than four hours. When your temperature is set below 78°F, each degree cooler may increase your costs by up to five percent.
- Wash large loads – both for dishes and laundry - to cut down on electricity usage.
- Use microwave and toaster ovens or grill outside. Using the oven in the heat of summer forces your A/C to work harder, which increases your electricity bill.
- Rotate your ceiling fan counter-clockwise to create a wind chill effect for a more comfortable living environment. Also turn off fans when you leave the room.
Reliant will also be offering free virtual in-home energy consultations to customers across the state.
