Page 56 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2025 - Online Magazine

SENIOR RESOURCES

BEAT THE HEAT:

Stay Cool and Manage Your

Energy Usage This Summer

by Anna Delano, Lubbock Regional Manager, Reliant

ummer’s almost here! With rising temperatures • Schedule an annual HVAC tune-up to make sure
around the corner, it’s already time to start thinking your system is working efficiently and that it can
Sabout how to stay cool and comfortable while stand up to the Texas heat.
managing your electricity expenses. Reliant is here to
help Lubbock prepare for summer with some simple and • Prevent your AC from working harder to cool by
effective tips and resources to beat the heat: sealing any drafty windows and exterior doors with
low-cost caulk and weatherstripping. Check ducts to
Summer energy conservation tips make sure they are connected properly.
• Follow the 4-by-4 rule: If no one is going to be home Managing summer electricity bills
for 4 or more hours, set the temperature 4 degrees • Degrees of Difference: Reliant customers receive
higher while you’re gone.
a bill credit for enrolling in the Smart Thermostats
• Raise your thermostat 2 to 3 degrees from 2 to 9 program, which helps conserve energy during peak
p.m. and use ceiling fans rotating counterclockwise usage times by adjusting temperatures by no more
to circulate cool air, which will help you feel 4 to 6 than four degrees.
degrees cooler.
• Text message alerts: Stay on top of your energy
• Plan to use your large heat-generating appliances, usage by signing up for text message alerts. With
such as washer, dryer, and dishwasher, for the early Reliant’s AccountAlerts, you will be automatically
morning or late evening hours when it’s cooler alerted when your costs exceed a set amount and/or
outside. your daily electricity usage jumps by 25%, helping
» Wait to use these appliances until you have a full you better manage your electricity usage. You’ll also
receive notifications via text message when your bill
load. is ready, including how much you owe.
• Use window coverings like thermal drapes or • Bill assistance & payment options: Reliant provides
blackout shades to keep the heat out and the cool air bill payment assistance and flexible payment options
inside. for qualified customers in need through the CARE
• Look into different lighting options. LED lighting (Community Assistance by Reliant Energy) program.
is much more energy efficient and doesn’t generate Anyone who needs help paying their electricity
heat like incandescent bulbs. bill this summer can call 2-1-1 within Texas or visit
211texas.org. For more information, visit reliant.
Make the most of the AC com/summertips.
• Set your thermostat fan to “auto” to prevent your By following these tips, you can stay cool this summer
unit from running 24/7. while keeping your energy bills under control. A few
small changes can make a difference in your energy
• Change your air filter regularly to ensure the AC is usage and overall comfort. Stay safe and enjoy the sunny
operating at its best. days ahead!

56 Lubbock Senior Link