CHARLESTON, W.Va., June 20, 2012 – The first week of summer is bringing 90 degree temperatures to the region, which will likely get air conditioners cranking around the clock.  Appalachian Power cautions that higher bills can occur as a result of the increased use, but it’s possible to offset the additional expense by implementing a few energy efficiency measures.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 40 percent of a typical residential customer’s electric bill comes from heating and cooling use. “As temperatures climb, it’s very likely that customers will need to run their air conditioners and fans a lot more. There are simple energy efficiency steps customers can take to reduce how much electricity they use, ultimately saving money on their electric bills.” said Jim Fawcett, Appalachian Power energy efficiency manager.   

Customers in West Virginia can take advantage of Appalachian’s energy efficiency programs which include a free online energy checkup, an in-home energy assessment including rebates for qualifying homes, a discounted lighting program and assistance through West Virginia’s weatherization program. To get more information or schedule an in-home energy assessment, visit aeprebates.com or call 1-888-446-7719.

Energy efficiency tips are available at AppalachianPower.com and include:

Repair and weatherstrip air leaks in the home; about 10-25 percent of energy used to cool homes escapes via leaks.

• • Repair and weatherstrip air leaks in the home; about 10-25 percent of energy used to cool homes escapes via leaks.
  • Maintain consistent temperatures and monitor your thermostat settings.
  • Install ceiling fans to circulate cool air throughout the house.
  • Close draperies and shades on south-facing windows to block sunlight and heat during the day.
  • Move furnishings away from floor or return air vents.
  •  Avoid using heat-producing appliances such as ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.

Appalachian also offers the average monthly payment plan, designed to level out bills over a 12-month cycle so that customers do not experience summer and winter spikes, when usage is typically at its highest.

Customers who are experiencing financial hardship should contact the company’s 24-hour Customer Solutions Center to discuss options regarding their accounts. The toll free numbers are: 1.800.982.4237 (W. Va.), 1.800.956.4237 (Va.) and 1.800.967.4237 (Tenn.)

Appalachian Power has 1 million customers in Virginia, West Virginia and Tennessee (as AEP Appalachian Power). It is a unit of American Electric Power, one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, which delivers electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765 kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined.

###