Pepco expects higher than usual demand for electricity with this week's scorching temperatures and high humidity, and reminds customers to use energy wisely.

 While power supply in the region is sufficient to meet expected demand, soaring electrical use can lead to higher bills.  By practicing conservation, customers can keep costs down and help prevent the need for more stringent conservation measures should problems develop in the regional electric grid.

 Pepco offers the following energy-saving tips:

• Set air-conditioning thermostats at 78 degrees and use an electric fan, which doesn't require as much energy, and the air will seem cooler without sacrificing comfort.

• Keep window shades, blinds, or drapes closed to block the sunlight during the hottest part of the day and retain cooler air inside your home or business.

• Limit the use of electrically heated water and turn off non-essential appliances and as many lights as possible.

• Limit opening refrigerator or freezer doors.

• Move lamps, TVs and other heat sources away from air conditioner thermostats. Heat from those appliances is sensed by the thermostat and could cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.

• Move furniture and other obstacles from in front of central air conditioning ducts to allow cooler air to circulate through your rooms freely.

• Postpone using high-energy appliances like electric stoves, washing machines, dishwashers and dryers until the evening.

 And remember: Extreme heat can be a danger to older people and those with medical conditions. Avoid heat stress by staying in cooled areas of your home, local shopping malls, libraries or public buildings as much as possible. 

For more energy saving tips, visit   www.pepco.com.

 
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Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 750,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.