Media Advisory - Toronto Hydro-Lert

HEAT WAVE FORECASTED THIS WEEK: Toronto Hydro reminds customers to watch air conditioner use during peak afternoon times

TORONTO, July 15, 2013 /CNW/ - As another heat wave moves into the city, Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited ("Toronto Hydro") reminds customers that summer time-of-use (TOU) prices are in effect.  Customers should be mindful of the higher 'on' peak price for electricity during weekday afternoons (11a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Heat waves cause air conditioners to work overtime, and that puts strain on the grid.  The increased electrical load, as well as the inability for Toronto Hydro equipment to cool down, can cause localized power outages due to heat-related failure.

Summer cooling can account for up to 50 per cent of the total summer bill.  Running a central air conditioner for 24 hours at 21 degrees Celsius would cost $8.51 (electricity cost only) versus at 25 degrees Celsius at a cost of $7.60¹.

Here are some tips on how to conserve electricity and save money:

• Set the temperature at least one degree higher than you normally would.  Turn it off when you're not at home OR use a programmable thermostat to turn the AC off (or up) during peak times.
• Use a ceiling fan to supplement your AC, you can raise the temperature on your thermostat and feel just as comfortable.
• Keep doors and windows closed while the air conditioner is running.
• Keep window shades drawn during the afternoon to minimize the passive solar heating effect of the sun.
• Hang clothes to dry.
• Sign up for peaksaver^® PLUS and get a free in-home energy display. It can tell you at a glance how much electricity you are consuming at any particular time. 

For more tips and information on Toronto Hydro's conservation programs like peaksaver^® PLUS visit torontohydro.com/peaksaver or torontohydro.com/smartsummer

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¹ Smart Meter Lane

SOURCE: Toronto Hydro Corporation

or to schedule an interview, contact:

Tanya Bruckmueller, Toronto Hydro
[email protected]
W: 416.542.2621
C: 416.903.0440