Temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees mean that your home air conditioning unit is working overtime, causing a significant increase in your electricity bill.
Anthony Cook, Principal of Alabama Power Media Relations, highlighted that Alabamians consume approximately 31% more electricity than the national average. This increased consumption ultimately leads to higher electricity bills for residents.
According to Cook, weeks like this can easily push your utility bill beyond your budget. However, there’s good news! Alabama Power has compiled a list of helpful tips to alleviate the burden.
According to Cook, it is highly advisable to have a certified technician inspect your electric appliances, and particularly your HVAC system. This will help ensure that your unit is operating at optimal efficiency, which can ultimately save you money as you work to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Alabama Power suggests using the 20 degree rule as another effective method.
According to Cook, it is industry standard for air conditioning units to lower the temperature inside your home by about 20 degrees from the outside. However, if the temperature inside your home goes beyond that threshold, the efficiency of the unit starts to decrease.
When trying to cut costs, relying solely on this method may not be sufficient in keeping both your body and home cool, especially during scorching temperatures that can reach up to 100 degrees. In such cases, seeking assistance from medical professionals can provide the necessary relief.
According to Dr. Walter Schrading, a Professor of Emergency Medicine at UAB, it is important to have access to water to stay hydrated. Spraying water on the surface of the body can aid in enhancing evaporation, followed by using a fan to move air across the body’s surface to facilitate the evaporation process. This method is an effective cooling mechanism that can be easily implemented.
According to Dr. Schrading, it is crucial to maintain a lower body temperature, regardless of whether you are indoors or outdoors, as the potential consequences could be severe.
According to Dr. Schrading, heat stroke is responsible for the highest number of deaths caused by environmental factors in the United States.
Alabama Power is providing various options for payment assistance, including budget billing, according to the company.
