AN increase in energy use during the hot summer months is in line with predictions, according to Essential Energy community relations officer Penny Cox.
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Ms Cox said Orange’s electricity consumption peaked at 42.2 megawatts on Saturday, at the start of the heatwave.
This is considerably more than the previous Saturday, December 29, when residents used 28.3 megawatts of electricity.
As the heatwave continues across the Central Tablelands this week, Essential Energy recommends housholders:
* Keep windows and doors closed and blinds and curtains drawn during the heat of the day and open doors and windows in the evening, preferably to catch a cooling cross-breeze.
* Shade windows facing east and west as this can reduce the amount of heat entering your home by up to 80 per cent.
* Consider installing external blinds and awnings on these windows for added shade.
* Check energy ratings before buying any cooling appliances.
* The optimum summer temperature inside your home should be between 23 and 26 degrees.
* Insulation can lower the temperature by 10 degrees.
* Consider installing ceiling fans as they run at a fraction of the cost of air-conditioners
* Don’t forget to clean the filters on your air conditioner to keep it running at an optimum level.