Hot temperatures across the area are placing additional demands on the power system, and Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative is working hard to ensure you remain safe and cool.

Until the temperature moderates, residents can help reduce their future power bills – and help ensure continued reliable power for the area – by taking a few simple actions:

• Turning thermostats up just a degree or two makes a big difference. Setting your thermostat just one degree higher can save up to 3 percent on your power bill. A setting of around 75 degrees is the “sweet spot” to maximize your savings. MLEC is taking its own advice and has raised the thermostats in its own facilities, as well as keeping unnecessary lights turned off.

• Delay using heat-producing appliances like stovetops, ovens and dryers during peak demand periods – typically between two and five o’clock in the evening hours. Use the microwave oven or grill outside to keep the kitchen cooler.

• Close window coverings on the sunny side of the house to block sunlight during the warmest parts of the day.

Additional energy saving tips for keeping your house comfortable and lowering power bills all year long can be found at the “Ways To Save” tab on mlec.com.

During temperature extremes, don’t forget to check on relatives, friends and neighbors to ensure their safety. Pets and livestock will also need a helping hand to remain safe.

“We know the warm temperatures make it hard to raise thermostats and reducing power use will be inconvenient,” said MLEC President and CEO Keith Carnahan. “We appreciate everyone’s understanding and cooperation as we work cooperatively together.”

MLEC is your member-owned source of power and information for the Middle Tennessee counties of Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Lewis and Perry. We strive to deliver safe, affordable, reliable electricity, while helping build the communities we serve. Learn more at http://www.mlec.com.