Extreme heat has returned to Texas and Xcel Energy is encouraging customers to consider ways to save energy and keep their bills low as temperatures soar.
Home cooling can account for about half of a summertime electric bill. Customers can reduce energy use and remain comfortable by making simple and low-cost efficiency improvements and adopting energy saving habits.
Tips offered by Xcel include installing a programmable thermostat that raises the setting when the house is empty and lowers it to a comfortable level when everyone comes home; using ceiling fans to circulate cool air throughout the home; opening interior doors to improve the circulation of cool air inside; changing air conditioner filters and having air conditioner coils cleaned to improve efficiency; and closing drapes and blinds during the heat of the day.
Customers can also reduce their overall bills by turning off lights and electronics when they’re not in use; replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs, which use 75%-80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last 15% longer; running washing machines, clothes dryers and dishwashers with full loads and only after the heat of the day. This helps keep the house cooler and reduces strain on the electric grid.
Customers can take further steps toward ongoing savings by having their homes tested for air leaks that can make cooling and heating units less efficient and more costly to operate. Authorized energy efficiency contractors perform the testing for Xcel Energy and make energysaving improvements free of charge.
Customers having difficulty paying their bills should contact Xcel Energy as soon as possible. Xcel Energy offers payment arrangements on a case-by-case basis, allowing customers to pay over a period of time should they need to.
“These pay arrangements vary according to individual circumstances, but most are from three to six months, said Canda Henry, Amarillo-based senior director in Xcel Energy’s Customer Care group. “Customers facing loss of income or other hardships that prevent them from making payments can talk with one of our personal account representatives, who can connect them with agencies in their area that offer help with utility bills.”
Personal account representatives will have a listing of appropriate community funds in each town served by Xcel Energy and will help qualified customers apply this funding to outstanding balances. Additionally, agents have been reaching out to customers who have qualified for energy assistance in the past to ensure they are aware of the resources available to them.
Customers wishing to visit with Xcel Energy about payment arrangements can call 1-800-8954999 Monday through Friday or visit the customer support page at xcelenergy. com to learn about options and programs to help manage bills.