Chandler residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce electricity use to help reduce the possibility of blackouts and involuntary curtailment of power services.
Energy Conservation Tips
- Raise thermostat settings to 82 degrees or higher. For every degree warmer than your usual setting, you’ll save 2 to 3 percent on the air conditioning portion of your electric bill.
- Do moisture-producing chores in the early morning or at night when it’s cooler. This includes washing clothes or dishes, mopping floors, watering indoor plants, etc.
- Check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer. The refrigerator should be between 38 and 42 degrees; the freezer 0 to 5 degrees. Ten degrees colder than necessary can increase energy consumption up to 25 percent.
- Turn off extra lights and all other major appliances that you absolutely do not need. Use timers to control security lighting.
- Because peak usage in metro Phoenix usually occurs between 4 and 6 p.m., reduce power usage particularly during this time.
- Avoid operation of pool pumps during afternoon hours.
- Avoid use of appliances such as clothes dryers, washers and dishwashers during afternoon hours.
- Cover windows with awnings, sunscreens or reflective film to keep out the heat.
- Keep your heat pump or air conditioner’s filter clean. Check it once a month.
- Use cold water for laundry wash and rinse cycles when possible.
- Caulk your home’s doors and windows.
- Weather strip doors to unheated/uncooled areas of your home such as the garage, crawl space and attic.
- If your home has a fireplace, close the damper tightly when the fireplace is not in use.
- Use fans to circulate air and make you feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting.
- Set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees. · Run full dishwasher loads and use the "air dry" setting or turn the dishwasher off after the final rinse.
- Use only cold water in your food waste disposal and to rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.
Sources: APS, SRP
Contacts
In extreme emergencies, citizens who are in danger should call 9-1-1.
Customers who have questions about energy use can call the following numbers or log on to their providers' website:
If there is a blackout:
- Turn off electrical equipment that was being used when the power went out.
- Use flashlights for emergency lighting. Don't use candles.
- Listen to local radio stations for updates.
- Avoid opening your refrigerator or freezer.
- Do not run a generator inside a home or garage.
Supplies you may need in the event of a blackout:
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- Portable radio
- Water - At least a gallon
- Small supply of food