The heat index this week has approached or topped 105 this week with a lack of cooling afternoon thunderstorms.
Accordingly, residents have set a new all-time record for Kissimmee Utility Authority electricity use.
KUA recorded an instantaneous system peak of 400.1 megawatts at 5:13 p.m. Tuesday, eclipsing the previous record of 398.1 megawatts set in June 2019. On Wednesday the utility recorded a system peak load of 399.6 megawatts, also setting a near record high.
With heat indices forecasted to remain above 100 degrees through the weekend, air conditioners are working overtime.
Here are some energy-saving tips that require little or no expense and can help to reduce summertime energy costs — and your bill:
- Set the thermostat on the highest comfortable setting (KUA recommends 78-80 degrees, 80 can be comfortable in rooms ). Raising the temperature just two degrees can reduce cooling costs by as much as 5 percent.
- Change or clean air conditioner filters monthly. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
- Use ceiling and portable fans to keep air moving. Fans only use about as much energy as a light bulb — but keep in mind ceiling fans cool people, not rooms (shut them off when you leave the room).
- Close blinds, drapes and shades during the hottest part of the day. This keeps the sun’s rays from heating the house.
