NEWS RELEASE
XCEL ENERGY
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With temperatures expected to soar near 100 degrees this weekend in Colorado, Xcel Energy is encouraging customers to consider ways to save energy and keep their bills low.
There are a number of steps you can take to save energy, including:
- Use your blinds or curtains to regulate the temperature in your home –close them on hot days to keep the heat out.
- Make sure exterior doors are fully closed - Exterior doors that are left cracked open or not latched can lead to a loss of cooling in the home.
- Use ceiling fans to your advantage – Ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioning and can help cool a room during warmer days and should run counter-clockwise in the summer to circulate cooler air.
- Have air conditioner coils cleaned – Cleaned and maintained air conditioners improve efficiency and help save energy.
- Upgrade your thermostat – A programable thermostat will let you set the temperature in your home to use less energy when you’re away. A smart thermostat will allow you to control the temperature when you’re away.
More information on ways to save energy can be found at xcelenergy.com/tips.
Wholesale natural gas prices have been steadily increasing across the country, which may lead to higher energy bills. Prices have increased as a particularly cold winter and spring decreased natural gas storage supply across the country, and there has been an overall increase in demand both nationally and internationally. While natural gas price increases primarily affect the bills of natural gas customers, the cost of natural gas also affects electric bills, because natural gas is also used to generate electricity. Xcel Energy passes along the wholesale cost of natural gas to its customers, and it does not make a profit on it.
As an important safety reminder, if customers ever detect a sulfur or rotten egg smell inside or near their home, it could be the odorant that we put in natural gas to help detect leaks. If they notice that smell, leave home immediately. Do not turn any electrical devices on or off, do not use a garage door opener, and never use any phone until they are outside and away, then call us at 1-800-895-2999. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
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