LG&E and KU offer simple ways to save energy as temperatures rise
(LOUISVILLE, Ky.) — It may not be summer, but because temperatures sure feel like it, Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company are offering tips and resources to help keep cool.
Minding the steps below and making just a few adjustments around your home as temperatures begin to rise can help better manage energy use, in turn, helping better manage energy bills.
- Start with a checkup: Have a certified professional service your AC annually to make sure it’s ready to perform in extended high temperatures. Set a reminder to change your filter each month, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions, to keep your system operating properly.
- Program your thermostat: Consider the schedules of those in the household and adjust programmable thermostats accordingly. Setting the thermostat to the highest comfortable setting during the day will help manage cooling expenses. Raising your thermostat setting by one degree can save as much as 4-7 percent on the cooling portion of your energy bill.
- Seal up leaks: Closing up any leaks or gaps around doors, windows and ductwork will help your cooling system operate more efficiently.
- Hit the fan: Using a fan along with your air conditioner helps spread the cooled air throughout the home more effectively without having to adjust the thermostat.
- Pull the shade: Closing curtains, drapes and blinds on sun-facing windows helps block rays that naturally increase indoor temperatures.
Louisville-Area Assistance
Louisville-area non-profit and long-time LG&E partner Project Warm offers Energy Management Workshops year ‘round that are designed to assist low-income families and individuals on a fixed income. Participants learn ways to help manage their energy use; participate in hands-on weatherization demonstrations; and receive free weatherization kits. Supplies provided in the kits include a fire safety kit from the Louisville Fire Dept., clear plastic and tape for windows, 30 feet of rope caulk, and other items to seal up any leaks. Information on Project Warm’s upcoming Energy Management Workshops, services and community partners can be found at projectwarm.org.
LG&E and KU offer information on community agencies that offer heating and cooling assistance resources for those who qualify. For more LG&E and KU energy-saving tips, visit lge-ku.com.
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Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies, are regulated utilities that serve more than 1.3 million customers and have consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. LG&E serves 333,000 natural gas and 429,000 electric customers in Louisville and 16 surrounding counties. KU serves 566,000 customers in 77 Kentucky counties and five counties in Virginia. More information is available at www.lge-ku.com and www.pplweb.com.
