On hot summer days, air conditioning accounts for roughly one-third of Ontario's electricity use. Beat the heat and conserve energy this summer.

TORONTO, July 16, 2015 /CNW/ - As temperatures start to soar, so does energy consumption. On the hottest days of the year, approximately a third of Ontario's electricity usage is the result of increased air conditioning use. With a few small changes to daily routines, Ontarians can conserve energy without sacrificing comfort.

Air conditioning use during summer months can account for an extra $200 in energy costs for a typical homeowner with central air conditioning, but this can be minimized with a few simple tips.

• Turn your A/C up a few degrees – Increase the temperature of your air conditioner by two degrees and save up to 10 percent on air conditioning energy costs.
• Install programmable thermostat – Use a programmable thermostat to set the temperature when you are not home and when you are sleeping or away.
• Replace out-dated equipment - You can get up to $650 through the saveONenergy HEATING & COOLING INCENTIVE program. Install an ENERGY STAR® central air conditioning system and receive up to $400, and $250 for installing a high efficiency furnace with ECM motor.
• Install a fan – Install ceiling fans and set the air conditioner at a higher temperature without noticing a difference. ENERGY STAR® certified ceiling fans are about 50 percent more energy efficient than conventional fan/light combinations.
• Keep windows and doors closed when the air conditioner is on – Window coverings should also be closed during the day to keep the summer sun and heat out.
• Fire up the grill – Outdoor grilling means you don't have to turn on your oven or stovetop. With these appliances off, your kitchen stays cooler, and your refrigerator and air conditioner do not have to work as hard, saving you even more.

"Keeping our homes and businesses cool during the summer months requires a lot of energy and represents the highest costs for many customers during the year," said Terry Young, Vice-President of Conservation and Corporate Relations. "Upgrading your air conditioner and furnace through the saveONenergy Heating and Cooling Incentive Program could save homeowners up to $325 a year in energy costs alone."

Note to editors:

MEDIA ADVISORY / INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY

Spokespeople are available for interview to discuss:

• Beat the Heat Tips to help consumers reduce their energy costs
• Perspective on energy use and consumption and how the IESO manages the province's power grid to meet summer demand for energy
• Summertime saveONenergy rebates for energy-efficient air conditioners and other ENERGY STAR® equipment and products that will reduce energy consumption.

About the IESO: 

The IESO manages the province's power system so that Ontarians receive power when and where they need it. It plans and prepares for future electricity needs and works with its partners to guide conservation efforts. On January 1, 2015, the Ontario Power Authority amalgamated with the IESO. For more information, please visit www.ieso.ca.

SOURCE Independent Electricity System Operator

IESO Media Contact: John Cannella, 416-506-2823, [email protected]