High Heat, Storm Damage and High Electrical Demand Taxing the System

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory today for the Washington, D.C., region and predicts continuing extreme heat into the weekend with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. 

This record heat, damage to the electric system from the recent storm and high demand for electricity, as customers seek to cool their homes, are stressing the capabilities of the electric system.  In response, Pepco is asking customers to conserve electricity.

Hundreds of crews continue to work around the clock to restore customers who remain without power from last week's violent storm as well as address pockets of new outages caused by the high heat conditions.

Tips for Conserving Energy
Pepco recommends the tips below for conserving energy.  To learn more, visit www.pepco.com /energy/conservation/.

• During hot weather, a central air conditioner can account for 30 percent of a customer's energy bill. Pepco suggests checking the air filter regularly - a clean air filter improves system efficiency, which should lead to energy savings.
• Set your thermostat at 78 degrees Fahrenheit, a reasonably comfortable and energy-efficient indoor temperature.
• Have a professional check your air conditioning system to ensure that it works properly and is not leaking coolant.
• Be sure all windows are shut and outside doors are closed when the air conditioning is on.
• It is important not to have lamps, televisions or other heat sources close to the air conditioner thermostat.  Heat from these sources may cause the air conditioner unit to run longer than it should.
• Check to ensure that no furniture or other obstacles are blocking ducts or fans. This will enable cooled air to circulate freely, making your home more comfortable.

For more information and updates, visit www.pepco.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter at PepcoConnect and download our mobile app at www.pepco.com/mobileapp.

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Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 788,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.