by
Rachel Hansen | Jun 24, 2021
WENATCHEE – Chelan County’s typically mild June is set to broil under a triple-digit heatwave predicted to last several days next week. Here are a few tips to help you -- and your power bill -- stay comfortable as temperatures rise.
Cool with a breeze. Ceiling fans are an energy-efficient way to circulate air and help you feel cooler; they allow you to keep the thermostat about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Turn off the fan when you leave the room.
Use windows to your advantage. Open your windows at night to let the cool air in, and close your blinds during the day to keep the sun out. For more savings, upgrade to energy-efficient windows that help block solar rays. You may be eligible for a PUD rebate to upgrade to energy-efficient windows – now with double the cash back.
Turn up the thermostat. Keep your home’s thermostat around 78 degrees during the day and if comfortable, open your windows and turn the AC off before going to bed to cool off naturally at night. Smart thermostats can save energy by automatically adjusting to your personal schedule – and can earn you a $100 rebate. Find out more here.
Upgrade your cooling. Outdated heat pumps and air conditioners can raise cooling costs, so can leaky window ACs. Upgrade to a new energy-efficient heat pump or ductless heat pump and receive a rebate of up to $1,400 from Chelan PUD. More info here. If you have a newer system already, consider a tune-up and change your air conditioner filters for better efficiency.
Launder wisely. Heating water accounts for about 90 percent of your washing machine’s energy use, so use cold water instead. Give your dryer a break and hang your cloths out to dry.
Cook without heating your home. Cook with a microwave, barbecue or a no-cook recipe instead of your oven or stovetop.
Headed to the river? River flows on the Columbia River are more likely to change – sometimes unexpectedly – as the West grapples with drought conditions this summer. With Chelan PUD’s Current app, you can track the flow of the river, the water depth at the end of boat launches, and even the water temperature. Available free for Apple and Android platforms at chelanpud.org/app.
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Here for you, providing the best for the most for the longest – chelanpud.org