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Duke Energy Provides Essential Tips for Energy Efficiency Amidst Heat Wave in the Carolinas

As the Carolinas brace for a period of extreme heat, with temperatures set to soar to near-record levels, Duke Energy is stepping in to help customers manage their energy consumption effectively. With heat alerts issued across a large part of the eastern United States, it's crucial for families to find ways to stay cool without breaking the bank.

Energy-Saving Tips

Duke Energy has outlined several strategies that residents can employ to reduce their energy bills while maintaining comfort during these sweltering days:

1. Adjust Your Thermostat: Setting your thermostat to the highest comfortable level can lead to significant energy savings. Even a minor adjustment of a couple of degrees can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and expense.

2. Wash Clothes with Cooler Water: Switching the temperature setting on your washing machine from hot to warm can effectively cut the energy consumption of each load by half, making laundry day easier on both your wallet and the environment.

3. Timing is Everything: To maximize savings, run heat-producing appliances such as ovens and dishwashers during the cooler mornings instead of during the hottest parts of the day.

4. Utilize Window Coverings: Closing curtains and blinds, particularly on the sunny side of your home, can help block direct sunlight, reducing the indoor temperature and reliance on air conditioning.

5. Ceiling Fans: Operating ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction will push the cooler air down, helping to circulate the air effectively in your home.

Financial Assistance Programs

In addition to these practical tips, Duke Energy offers various programs and incentives to help customers save money on their energy bills:

• - Home Energy Assessment: Residents can sign up for Duke Energy's free Home Energy House Call service, which includes a complimentary energy efficiency kit, personalized usage reports, and expert recommendations tailored to help customers reduce their energy costs.

• - Rebates for Upgrades: Those looking to invest in upgrades such as HVAC systems, water heaters, or attic insulation can benefit from the Smart $aver program that offers rebates and savings on improved energy efficiency equipment.

• - Demand Response Programs: For customers willing to adjust their energy usage during peak demand times, Duke Energy offers credits on bills for participating in their Power Manager® or EnergyWise® Home programs.

Flexible Payment Options

Duke Energy understands that some customers may face challenges in paying their bills during extreme weather conditions. To provide support, they offer:

• - Installment Payment Plans: Designed to give flexibility to customers needing a bit of help to manage their energy bills.

• - Access to Resources: Collaborating with local and state agencies, Duke Energy can connect eligible customers to assistance programs like the Share the Light Fund® and Low Income Home Energy Assistance programs, ensuring that help is within reach.

• - Payment Assistance Finder: This new tool allows customers to easily find local resources just by entering their zip code, making assistance accessible with minimal effort.

For more detailed strategies on energy savings during this heat wave and beyond, Duke Energy has created a special page, duke-energy.com/SummerSavings, that consolidates resources and tips for better energy management.

About Duke Energy

Founded as a leading energy provider, Duke Energy operates across multiple states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. The company serves over 8.6 million electric customers and is committed to transitioning to cleaner energy and enhancing the reliability of its services. With a focus on upgrading the electric grid and investing in renewable energy sources, Duke Energy is paving the path toward a brighter future.

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