SYRACUSE — Officials at National Grid say customers can lower their energy costs taking no-cost and low-cost steps to stay cool. With summer in high gear and temperatures across the region hovering around the 90-degree mark, National Grid reminds that it is possible to stay cool while reducing energy consumption and costs.

Among the ways to stay cool, National Grid says:

• Close window curtains, blinds and drapes during the day to block the sun’s light and heat from your home by reducing the amount of heat coming into your home, less energy will be need to cool it;
• Run oscillating or box fans along with air conditioning to create a windchill effect by distributing and circulating cold air throughout a room, allowing you to keep the air conditioner at a higher temperature and use less energy. The lower you set your air conditioning temperature, the more costly it is to operate;
• Change or clean the reusable filter in your air conditioner. This can improve air flow and efficiency.

Also, turn off lights when you’re not using them. Turning lights off when you’re not using them can help save money by reducing your electricity bills, extend the life of your light bulbs, and result in your buying bulbs less often; and

Think twice before starting your oven. Conventional and convection ovens can add unnecessary heat to your home, forcing your air conditioner to run unnecessarily. Keep the heat outside by using a grill or, if that’s not an option, consider using a microwave or slow cooker to do the job.

Prep your home when you go on vacation. If there’s a road trip or beach vacation on your calendar, take a couple of extra steps such as turning up your thermostat to keep your air conditioning from running while no one is home. Unplug electronics with remote control or “instant on” features and save $4 a month.

National Grid also reminds its customers to make safety the first priority during periods of extreme heat. Heat-related illnesses are preventable and have easy-to-recognize symptoms. Vulnerable individuals, including senior citizens, young children and those with chronic illnesses, are most susceptible to developing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Programs to help manage your bills

The impact of global events on energy supply markets and increased electric usage from pool filters, and room and central air conditioners will impact household budgets. To help reduce price volatility, the National Grid strategically buys energy supply and never marks up supply costs; customers pay what we pay, officials said.

One option for customers looking to manage their costs is to enroll in the Budget Billing Plan. Customers pay a monthly amount based on their average energy usage, spreading the costs across the course of time to provide a predictable monthly payment amount, National Grid said. The company periodically reviews accounts and adjusts payment amounts to keep customers on track if their usage increases or decreases. Participation is free of charge and can be discontinued at any time without penalty.

National Grid also provides various options for customers who need help paying their bills.  In addition, National Grid Consumer Advocates are available to work with low-income and vulnerable customers to find the affordability programs that best fits their needs, the announcement said. The company’s Consumer Advocates provided assistance to nearly 31,000 households in 2021. To speak with a Consumer Advocate, call 1-800-642-4272.

National Grid also offers a variety of services and rebates for renters, homeowners and businesses. These include rebates on installation of wi-fi enabled thermostats, hot water pipe insulation, combination furnace-water heaters and thermostatic radiator valves.

For more information these and other National Grid programs online, visit: https://www.nationalgridus.com/Upstate-NY-Home/Bill-Help/Help-Making-Payments.