DENVER, Colorado (July 22, 2019) – As summer temperatures continue to reach near-record highs in Colorado, many may be reaching for the thermostat to turn down their air conditioning. Cooling the home can account for more than half of the summertime energy bill. So, Xcel Energy has some tips to help make both your home and bill a little more comfortable.

  • A programmable thermostat saves up to 10 percent on your energy bill if it is set to match your daily routine, such as setting it at 85 degrees when you’re out of the house for the day;
  • Supplement air-conditioning with ceiling and floor fans, which create a wind-chill effect; it increases air-conditioning cooling efficiency and has a minimal cost to run;
  • Use such appliances as washers, dryers and dishwashers after 10:30 p.m. Run full loads to decrease the amount of time appliances are in use;
  • Use a microwave oven instead of a conventional electric oven or natural gas stove;
  • Keep your shades pulled, and doors and windows closed during the day and plant shade trees near your home and air conditioning unit. You may be able to see visible savings on your electric bill; and
  • Cool off first by drinking iced beverages often and apply cold damp cloths to central blood flow areas such as your neck and wrists; this lowers your blood temperature which will eventually transfer to lowering your body temperature.

Also, during periods of hot, dry weather check on elderly or ill friends, neighbors and family members who live alone to make sure they're OK. For more energy-saving tips, visit Xcel Energy's Web site at: www.xcelenergy.com. For a free copy of Xcel Energy's "Using Electricity at Home: Energy Saving Tips and Safety,” please call Xcel Energy’s 24-hour customer service line at 1-800-895-4999.

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About Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.