Title
Are You a DIY Power Generator? For Safety’s Sake Let Us Know!
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2017_01_07_DIYRooftop.png?itok=Iv5JNJ6o
Saturday | January 7, 2017
Card Teaser
The drop in price of solar panels has created fertile ground for do-it-yourself power generators.
The drop in price of solar panels has created fertile ground for do-it-yourself power generators. While it’s not widespread, we have seen an increase in electric systems being installed that have not been planned and installed by a certified installation company or with the coordination of the utility.
United Power will be actively looking for these systems and requiring that the installations meet all required permitting processes. To keep everyone safe, the cooperative is even prepared to disconnect service to members who are operating a system without proper permitting until all requirements are met. This is necessary to help keep all our members and our employees safe. While it looks simple to throw some panels up on the roof and hook them up, there are a lot of risks involved with the process – let’s look at some of them:
Installation of a solar photovoltaic system is like any other electric installation in your home – it can be dangerous if not installed correctly. Make a mistake and you can suffer an injury – nasty things like burns, falls and electric shocks. There is also the risk of a fire if the unit is poorly installed. Like any electrical work in your home, your homeowners insurance will want to know that the unit it properly installed before paying any claim for damage. Also, if the utility doesn’t know you’ve put the system in it poses a real risk to lineworkers during maintenance work or during outage restoration. Not having an appropriate inverter would make your system into a mini power plant, that wouldn’t shut down during a power outage. Your system could feed energy back onto a line and injure or kill a worker if the utility doesn’t know it’s in operation.Solar installations are subject to federal, state and local permit requirements, along with an interconnect agreement with the utility. Just as you would need permits to complete work on a basement finish or bathroom remodel, a solar system requires multiple permits. The permitting process makes certain your system is installed correctly, meeting all the electrical and/or plumbing requirements for the state and local municipalities. Electricity production is a regulated industry, so you’re not legally allowed to connect your system to an existing grid without appropriate inspections. The interconnection agreement with the utility helps to clarify your relationship with the utility – it makes you eligible to apply for rebates and allows you to take advantage of United Power’s net metering program.
If you have a generating system that you installed without securing the necessary permits, or are operating without an interconnection agreement with United Power, we are looking for you. Give us a call at 303-659-0551 to find out how we can help you get your system in compliance, and help you avoid injuring or killing one of our United Power line workers or someone in your neighborhood.
Title
Are you Prepared for the Next Winter Storm?
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/04_10_2019_WinterWeather.png?itok=iD1KskhK
Wednesday | April 10, 2019
Card Teaser
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay safe and warm. Winter storm severity can vary depending on where you live, but United Power cares about your safety, and we want you to be prepared.
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay safe and warm. Winter storm severity can vary depending on where you live, but United Power cares about your safety, and we want you to be prepared.
Heavy snow and wind can lead to downed power lines, leaving co-op members without power. During extremely low temperatures, this can be dangerous. During a power outage, our crews will continue to work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power.
There are a few things you can do to prepare yourself:
Stay warm – Plan to use a safe alternate heating source, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove during a power outage. These are great options to keep you and your loved ones warm, but exercise caution when using, and never leave the heating source unattended. If you are using gasoline-, propane- or natural gas-burning devices to stay warm, never use them indoors. Remember that fuel- and wood-burning sources of heat should always be properly ventilated. Always read the manufacturer’s directions before using.
Stay fed – The CDC recommends having several days’ supply of food that does not need to be cooked handy. Crackers, cereal, canned goods and bread are good options. Five gallons of water per person should also be available in the event of an extended power outage.
Stay safe – When an outage occurs, it usually means power lines are down or equipment is damaged. It is best not to travel during winter storms, but if you must, bring a survival kit along, and do not travel alone. If you encounter downed lines or debris in lines, always assume the lines are live. Stay as far away from the downed lines as possible, and report the situation to our dispatchers by calling 303-637-1350 if possible.
Winter weather can be unpredictable and dangerous, and planning ahead can often be the difference between life and death. United Power is ready for what Mother Nature has in store, and we want you to be ready, too. For more winter safety tips, visit www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
In the event of an outage, please know that our crews are working as quickly as is safely possible to restore your power.
If Your Power is Off
Verify that your entire house is out and that you haven’t just blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker.
If your power remains out for longer than a few minutes, or to report an electrical safety hazard, please call United Power’s Outage Line at 303-637-1350 or login to SmartHub. If the outage is widespread, our phone lines may be busy when you call.
When you call to report an outage, please provide as many details as possible. If you heard a loud bang, or your power is out but your neighbors have power, let us know. The information you supply will help us in our efforts to promptly restore electricity.
Ask the Expert: Electric Vehicle Q&A
Friday | September 25, 2020
Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle.
Read more >
Automated Devices for Better Reliability
Monday | November 22, 2021
United Power’s outage restoration system utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow it to respond and resolve outages more quickly..
Read more >
Title
Balloting Open in 2026 United Power Director Election
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/0_BoardNominations_0.jpg?h=45932144&itok=lhOa2zqi
Friday | March 13, 2026
Card Teaser
Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 13.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 13Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2026 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on March 13. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 14. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 15, where votes will be cast using a streamlined digital voting system.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
This year, one seat is up for election in each of United Power’s four director districts, and six candidates are running for election. The director candidates are Phil Tiffany and Virginia A. “Ginny” Buczek (incumbent) in the North District; Vicki Erickson and Lisa Hough in the Central District; Steven Douglas (incumbent) in the South District; and Tamra K. Waltemath (incumbent) in the Mountain District. Candidate statements are available online.
Proposed amendments to the cooperative’s Articles of Incorporation will also appear on the ballot for approval by the membership. These amendments will ensure the articles are clear, transparent, and consistent with current state laws and the co-op’s bylaws. Specifically, the proposed amendments remove duplicative and outdated language and add clarifying language where necessary. The proposed amendments can be viewed in full online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2026 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 15. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 117,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
Title
Battery Storage System Goes Live
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_BatteryStorage.png?itok=a6JRUr2b
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119.
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE, is the largest utility battery storage facility in Colorado.
The introduction of battery storage to United Power’s portfolio will allow the cooperative to save an expected $1 million each year in wholesale capacity charges. Energy generated from all sources on United Power’s grid will be stored during low-demand hours to be discharged during high-peak periods throughout the year.
United Power’s primary goal for its battery storage facility is peak shaving, but it also better positions the cooperative to respond to future innovation and development within the energy environment.
“Understanding storage is the next logical step in the progression of renewable generation,” said Jerry Marizza, United Power’s New Business Director. “Without the ability to store energy, renewables will have an artificial cap placed on its utilization.”
On bright days when the sun is shining, solar fields may collect more energy than can be immediately used. Without proper storage capabilities, that excess energy is lost. Allowing the capture of both wind and solar energy produced at off-peak times when demand is low conserves energy and saves money.
“As a co-op, we have an obligation to our communities and individual members to explore these new options to meet this ever changing energy environment,” Marizza said.
The Tesla battery system United Power and ENGIE utilized for this project is a larger version of the lithium ion battery found in Tesla’s popular electric vehicles. Through years of testing and refinement, Tesla batteries have become the industry standard in energy storage.
The system has the capacity to store and distribute up to four megawatts of energy, or enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. Size and duration of the batteries used was determined during a study of United Power’s monthly load profile.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down,” said John Parker, United Power CEO, during the project announcement this past year. “Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now.”
The new battery storage facility builds on United Power’s reputation for adopting and implementing innovative technology, such as the Sol Partners Cooperative Solar Farm – the first of its kind in Colorado – and Methane to Megawatts Project at the Erie Landfill – only the second of its kind in the state. More than just renewables, these projects also make economic sense for our members while providing reliable energy.
Title
Beat the Heat...and Your Energy Bill
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Sept2018_NL_BeatHeat.png?h=45932144&itok=T214ateq
Monday | September 3, 2018
Card Teaser
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather.
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather. By mid-July, the state had already experienced more than 30 days of temperatures higher than 90 degrees, breaking a July 2012 temperature record.
While the excessive heat wave has probably contributed to some increase in your energy usage, there are some other factors that may have, as well. It’s a good time to talk about those reasons, and how you can use your air conditioning in a way that keeps you comfortable without the added burden on your bill.
Summer vacation is over for school age kids, but for the past two months, they’ve been spending more time at home while you’re at work. That means more time running the air conditioning, playing on electronics and maybe even cooking. All those things require more energy.
Along with having kids home during the weekday, maybe you or your family recently purchased a pool or used your existing pool more often to escape the summer heat. Water features, like pool pumps, use a lot of extra energy.
Seemingly small things can also contribute extra energy usage over the summer. Remembering to close windows and blinds, which block solar heat from entering your home, can keep the house a little cooler. Programmable smart thermostats also give you control when you’re away from the home. You can turn the air conditioning on when you’re about to head home or turn it off if you’re out and forgot.
The summer months are coming to an end and the kids are back in school, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to help save a little more energy until fall rolls around or even when summer returns next year.
Start with growth prevention. Grass and other plants can grow up around outside air conditioning units, making it more difficult for them to breathe, potentially freezing coils. Take a few extra moments each week to make sure any excess growth around your unit has been cleared.
When you return home from a long day at work or out with the family, turn on your ceiling fan before the air conditioning. The breeze the fan creates will evaporate moisture from your skin and make you feel cooler, even when room temperatures are a few degrees warmer. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room, though.
If you’re new to Colorado, you might not be familiar with the advantages the climate here provides. Opening your windows before going to bed allows cool air to move through your home so you can keep the air conditioning off. Remember to close windows early in the morning and pull blinds on the south and west sides of your home later in the day.
Another quick and easy technique you can utilize is weatherstripping. Air leaks from your home through cracks around windows, doors and even the foundation. Applying weatherstripping and caulking seals in cool air and prevents hot air from entering.
Beating the Heat & Summer Demand
Thursday | June 17, 2021
June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
Read more >
Title
Are You a DIY Power Generator? For Safety’s Sake Let Us Know!
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2017_01_07_DIYRooftop.png?itok=Iv5JNJ6o
Saturday | January 7, 2017
Card Teaser
The drop in price of solar panels has created fertile ground for do-it-yourself power generators.
The drop in price of solar panels has created fertile ground for do-it-yourself power generators. While it’s not widespread, we have seen an increase in electric systems being installed that have not been planned and installed by a certified installation company or with the coordination of the utility.
United Power will be actively looking for these systems and requiring that the installations meet all required permitting processes. To keep everyone safe, the cooperative is even prepared to disconnect service to members who are operating a system without proper permitting until all requirements are met. This is necessary to help keep all our members and our employees safe. While it looks simple to throw some panels up on the roof and hook them up, there are a lot of risks involved with the process – let’s look at some of them:
Installation of a solar photovoltaic system is like any other electric installation in your home – it can be dangerous if not installed correctly. Make a mistake and you can suffer an injury – nasty things like burns, falls and electric shocks. There is also the risk of a fire if the unit is poorly installed. Like any electrical work in your home, your homeowners insurance will want to know that the unit it properly installed before paying any claim for damage. Also, if the utility doesn’t know you’ve put the system in it poses a real risk to lineworkers during maintenance work or during outage restoration. Not having an appropriate inverter would make your system into a mini power plant, that wouldn’t shut down during a power outage. Your system could feed energy back onto a line and injure or kill a worker if the utility doesn’t know it’s in operation.Solar installations are subject to federal, state and local permit requirements, along with an interconnect agreement with the utility. Just as you would need permits to complete work on a basement finish or bathroom remodel, a solar system requires multiple permits. The permitting process makes certain your system is installed correctly, meeting all the electrical and/or plumbing requirements for the state and local municipalities. Electricity production is a regulated industry, so you’re not legally allowed to connect your system to an existing grid without appropriate inspections. The interconnection agreement with the utility helps to clarify your relationship with the utility – it makes you eligible to apply for rebates and allows you to take advantage of United Power’s net metering program.
If you have a generating system that you installed without securing the necessary permits, or are operating without an interconnection agreement with United Power, we are looking for you. Give us a call at 303-659-0551 to find out how we can help you get your system in compliance, and help you avoid injuring or killing one of our United Power line workers or someone in your neighborhood.
Title
Are you Prepared for the Next Winter Storm?
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/04_10_2019_WinterWeather.png?itok=iD1KskhK
Wednesday | April 10, 2019
Card Teaser
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay safe and warm. Winter storm severity can vary depending on where you live, but United Power cares about your safety, and we want you to be prepared.
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay safe and warm. Winter storm severity can vary depending on where you live, but United Power cares about your safety, and we want you to be prepared.
Heavy snow and wind can lead to downed power lines, leaving co-op members without power. During extremely low temperatures, this can be dangerous. During a power outage, our crews will continue to work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power.
There are a few things you can do to prepare yourself:
Stay warm – Plan to use a safe alternate heating source, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove during a power outage. These are great options to keep you and your loved ones warm, but exercise caution when using, and never leave the heating source unattended. If you are using gasoline-, propane- or natural gas-burning devices to stay warm, never use them indoors. Remember that fuel- and wood-burning sources of heat should always be properly ventilated. Always read the manufacturer’s directions before using.
Stay fed – The CDC recommends having several days’ supply of food that does not need to be cooked handy. Crackers, cereal, canned goods and bread are good options. Five gallons of water per person should also be available in the event of an extended power outage.
Stay safe – When an outage occurs, it usually means power lines are down or equipment is damaged. It is best not to travel during winter storms, but if you must, bring a survival kit along, and do not travel alone. If you encounter downed lines or debris in lines, always assume the lines are live. Stay as far away from the downed lines as possible, and report the situation to our dispatchers by calling 303-637-1350 if possible.
Winter weather can be unpredictable and dangerous, and planning ahead can often be the difference between life and death. United Power is ready for what Mother Nature has in store, and we want you to be ready, too. For more winter safety tips, visit www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
In the event of an outage, please know that our crews are working as quickly as is safely possible to restore your power.
If Your Power is Off
Verify that your entire house is out and that you haven’t just blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker.
If your power remains out for longer than a few minutes, or to report an electrical safety hazard, please call United Power’s Outage Line at 303-637-1350 or login to SmartHub. If the outage is widespread, our phone lines may be busy when you call.
When you call to report an outage, please provide as many details as possible. If you heard a loud bang, or your power is out but your neighbors have power, let us know. The information you supply will help us in our efforts to promptly restore electricity.
Ask the Expert: Electric Vehicle Q&A
Friday | September 25, 2020
Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle.
Read more >
Automated Devices for Better Reliability
Monday | November 22, 2021
United Power’s outage restoration system utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow it to respond and resolve outages more quickly..
Read more >
Title
Balloting Open in 2026 United Power Director Election
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/0_BoardNominations_0.jpg?h=45932144&itok=lhOa2zqi
Friday | March 13, 2026
Card Teaser
Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 13.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 13Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2026 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on March 13. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 14. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 15, where votes will be cast using a streamlined digital voting system.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
This year, one seat is up for election in each of United Power’s four director districts, and six candidates are running for election. The director candidates are Phil Tiffany and Virginia A. “Ginny” Buczek (incumbent) in the North District; Vicki Erickson and Lisa Hough in the Central District; Steven Douglas (incumbent) in the South District; and Tamra K. Waltemath (incumbent) in the Mountain District. Candidate statements are available online.
Proposed amendments to the cooperative’s Articles of Incorporation will also appear on the ballot for approval by the membership. These amendments will ensure the articles are clear, transparent, and consistent with current state laws and the co-op’s bylaws. Specifically, the proposed amendments remove duplicative and outdated language and add clarifying language where necessary. The proposed amendments can be viewed in full online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2026 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 15. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 117,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
Title
Battery Storage System Goes Live
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_BatteryStorage.png?itok=a6JRUr2b
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119.
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE, is the largest utility battery storage facility in Colorado.
The introduction of battery storage to United Power’s portfolio will allow the cooperative to save an expected $1 million each year in wholesale capacity charges. Energy generated from all sources on United Power’s grid will be stored during low-demand hours to be discharged during high-peak periods throughout the year.
United Power’s primary goal for its battery storage facility is peak shaving, but it also better positions the cooperative to respond to future innovation and development within the energy environment.
“Understanding storage is the next logical step in the progression of renewable generation,” said Jerry Marizza, United Power’s New Business Director. “Without the ability to store energy, renewables will have an artificial cap placed on its utilization.”
On bright days when the sun is shining, solar fields may collect more energy than can be immediately used. Without proper storage capabilities, that excess energy is lost. Allowing the capture of both wind and solar energy produced at off-peak times when demand is low conserves energy and saves money.
“As a co-op, we have an obligation to our communities and individual members to explore these new options to meet this ever changing energy environment,” Marizza said.
The Tesla battery system United Power and ENGIE utilized for this project is a larger version of the lithium ion battery found in Tesla’s popular electric vehicles. Through years of testing and refinement, Tesla batteries have become the industry standard in energy storage.
The system has the capacity to store and distribute up to four megawatts of energy, or enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. Size and duration of the batteries used was determined during a study of United Power’s monthly load profile.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down,” said John Parker, United Power CEO, during the project announcement this past year. “Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now.”
The new battery storage facility builds on United Power’s reputation for adopting and implementing innovative technology, such as the Sol Partners Cooperative Solar Farm – the first of its kind in Colorado – and Methane to Megawatts Project at the Erie Landfill – only the second of its kind in the state. More than just renewables, these projects also make economic sense for our members while providing reliable energy.
Title
Beat the Heat...and Your Energy Bill
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Sept2018_NL_BeatHeat.png?h=45932144&itok=T214ateq
Monday | September 3, 2018
Card Teaser
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather.
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather. By mid-July, the state had already experienced more than 30 days of temperatures higher than 90 degrees, breaking a July 2012 temperature record.
While the excessive heat wave has probably contributed to some increase in your energy usage, there are some other factors that may have, as well. It’s a good time to talk about those reasons, and how you can use your air conditioning in a way that keeps you comfortable without the added burden on your bill.
Summer vacation is over for school age kids, but for the past two months, they’ve been spending more time at home while you’re at work. That means more time running the air conditioning, playing on electronics and maybe even cooking. All those things require more energy.
Along with having kids home during the weekday, maybe you or your family recently purchased a pool or used your existing pool more often to escape the summer heat. Water features, like pool pumps, use a lot of extra energy.
Seemingly small things can also contribute extra energy usage over the summer. Remembering to close windows and blinds, which block solar heat from entering your home, can keep the house a little cooler. Programmable smart thermostats also give you control when you’re away from the home. You can turn the air conditioning on when you’re about to head home or turn it off if you’re out and forgot.
The summer months are coming to an end and the kids are back in school, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to help save a little more energy until fall rolls around or even when summer returns next year.
Start with growth prevention. Grass and other plants can grow up around outside air conditioning units, making it more difficult for them to breathe, potentially freezing coils. Take a few extra moments each week to make sure any excess growth around your unit has been cleared.
When you return home from a long day at work or out with the family, turn on your ceiling fan before the air conditioning. The breeze the fan creates will evaporate moisture from your skin and make you feel cooler, even when room temperatures are a few degrees warmer. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room, though.
If you’re new to Colorado, you might not be familiar with the advantages the climate here provides. Opening your windows before going to bed allows cool air to move through your home so you can keep the air conditioning off. Remember to close windows early in the morning and pull blinds on the south and west sides of your home later in the day.
Another quick and easy technique you can utilize is weatherstripping. Air leaks from your home through cracks around windows, doors and even the foundation. Applying weatherstripping and caulking seals in cool air and prevents hot air from entering.
Beating the Heat & Summer Demand
Thursday | June 17, 2021
June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
Read more >
