Your cooling system needs to run longer to maintain a cool indoor temperature, consuming more electricity. Your refrigerator and freezer also use more energy during the hot season.

Your cooling system may be the reason you are using more energy. Older equipment or systems lacking maintenance consume more energy. Heat pumps are efficient all-in-one heating and air conditioning. Check out our heat pump rebates and start saving energy.

Fans, pool pumps and other summer appliances add to your energy usage. Be mindful of how and when you use them.

Dust and debris can block airflow, making your systems work overtime. Clean filters monthly and vents annually to improve efficiency—and reduce allergies.

If your home isn’t well insulated, cool air escapes and hot air gets in, forcing your systems to work harder. Inspect for leaks or gaps and check out our Home Insulation and Air Sealing Rebates to save more.

Humidity is higher this time of year, making your air conditioner or dehumidifier run longer. This extra effort increases energy use.

Summer breaks often mean more people at home using electronics and appliances. Tell your kids to turn off the video games and play outside!

If cold showers aren’t your thing, you might use more natural gas or electricity during the summer.

Electricity can cost more when demand spikes—especially in summer. While delivery rates stay stable, supply rates or Time-of-Use plans may rise. Learn more about our electric pricing and rates and look into your bill to check your current rate.

Set your air conditioning to 78° or higher during summer. Every degree above 75° can save up to 3% on cooling energy.

Raise the temperature when you're not home—unless you have a heat pump. Programmable thermostats make it easy. Explore options on our Smart Solutions page.

Check for leaks in your ductwork and seal them. Our Retail Products Program can give you instant discounts to help you in this task.

Use a rolled towel or rug to block air leaks under doors and windows. To permanently fix the issue check out our Retail Products Program and get instant discounts from a retailer near you.

Shut air conditioner vents in rooms you’re not using to focus cooling where it’s needed most.

Upgrading to newer cooling systems can help you save on energy. Heat pumps, for instance, are very efficient and usually have a lower carbon footprint than other options. Visit our NYS Clean Heat Rebate Program page to learn more about heat pumps and enjoy our rebates.

It seems opposite of the tip above, but they can work together. Close curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on west- and south-facing windows. Use sheer or thermal curtains to block heat while letting in light.

Fans cool people, not rooms. Turn them off when you leave, and do the same with lights.

Opening the fridge or freezer door for long periods lets all the cold air out, making the compressor work longer to maintain temperatures. Think about everything you want from the them before opening it. Same goes for the oven—use the window to check your food instead of opening the door all the time!

Use daylight instead of electric lights when possible. Open curtains in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat buildup.

Skip the dryer and hang clothes outside or on a rack. It saves energy and extends the life of your clothes.

We offer different rate plans that may better match your usage pattern. Visit our electric pricing and rates page to explore your options.

Planning to plant trees or start a home project this summer? Work with UDig NY to have them mark underground utility facilities, so you can dig safely.

Always stay clear of overhead power lines. Whether you're trimming trees, flying a drone or setting off fireworks, maintain a safe distance and never touch a power line.

Never let electrical cords or devices—like phone chargers—come near water. For pools or hot tubs, make sure all electrical connections are properly grounded. Install GFCI outlets near any water source to prevent electric shock.

Summer often means more plugged-in devices—fans, grills, speakers and chargers. Don’t overload your outlets. Use power strips with surge protection and spread out your devices to stay safe.

When using electrical devices outside, make sure they’re rated for outdoor use. Opt for battery-powered tools when possible.

Stay away from objects that conduct electricity, such as metal fences. If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 911 or 800.743.1701. If your basement or home floods, the first thing you should do is to turn off your electricity - if it’s safe to do so, otherwise, call 911.

If you suspect a natural gas leak, get up, get out and get away! Then call us immediately at 800.743.1702 or 911 from a safe location.