Preparing Your NJ Home for Peak Summer Electricity Demand
Heat waves stress both the grid and household budgets. A short checklist helps with both.
Peak demand weeks in New Jersey arrive with predictable regularity in July and August. Homes that are ready ride them out more cheaply and more comfortably.
Before the heat
- Service the cooling system in spring, not during the first heat wave
- Stock filters so replacement never gets deferred
- Verify that ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise for summer
- Test that attic ventilation is unobstructed
During a heat wave
- Pre-cool the house in the morning when the system runs efficiently.
- Keep blinds closed on sun-exposed windows.
- Delay oven use and heavy appliances until evening.
- Check on neighbors who may be without cooling.
- New Jersey
- Cooling
