HAMPTON S.C. (WJCL) — As a result of a cold February, Palmetto Electric is alerting consumers to the effects of the cooler weather on energy consumption. Palmetto Electric services Hampton, Beaufort and Jasper counties. “With the cold temperatures comes increased usage and higher electric bills,” said Berl Davis, president and CEO of the utility.
Palmetto Electric saw a significant increase in both peak demand and energy usage in February 2015 compared to February 2014. “Peak demand increased by over 23 percent and energy sales were up by 22 percent,” according to Davis. February 2015 was 57 percent colder than February 2014 and 52 percent colder than normal for the month based on local weather data.
To help offset the increases caused by cold weather Palmetto Electric recommends a thermostat setting of 68 degrees in the winter. For every degree above this setting consumers will add approximately 4-8 percent to their heating cost. “Consumers should be especially cautious about not switching their thermostat to the ‘Emergency Heat’ setting as this will cause usage to skyrocket,” emphasized Davis. Each winter we determine that many high bills result from consumers mistakenly switching from the “Heat” setting to “Emergency Heat.”
Other energy saving tips include:
- Set thermostats at 55 degrees in a home that is vacant for a week or longer.
- Caulk around all doors and windows. Loose or cracked caulking should be removed or replaced.
- Weather-stripping is a real key to preventing heat loss. Doors and windows should be sealed to prevent drafts. Door bottoms are also culprits; install inexpensive “sweeps” on doors to keep out the cold. Don’t forget to weather-strip your attic access.
- Central heating systems should be given an annual cleaning and tune-up by a qualified technician.
- Keep air filters clean. The air filter of a central heating system should be replaced once a month during the heating season if a disposable filter is used.
- Have your chimney checked by a qualified chimney sweep and check your fireplace damper to be sure it opens and closes properly.
Consumers can view more information on ways to help keep electric bills down during cold weather by visiting Palmetto Electric’s website at www.palmetto.coop and click Together We Save.
Local power company warns consumers about higher electric bills
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