As the heat wave rages on, PPL is prepared to meet the needs of its customers.

Carol Obando-Derstine, Regional Affairs Director, PPL Electric Utilities, noted that heat waves increase the demand for electricity, as customers use air conditioners and fans."The PPL Electric Utilities system is reliable," Obando-Derstine said. "We work year-round to strengthen the electrical system so customers can depend on it when they need it the most."Obando-Derstine said customers can save energy and money, even in a heat wave, and added that PPL has tips for them to save energy and money while still staying comfortable.She said PPL urges people to be safe in a heat wave, and that they can do so by finding a cool place; by drinking plenty of fluids; and by checking on elderly family members or neighbors.Obando-Derstine said customers should know electric usage rises sharply with the extreme heat, and that cooling appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers use much more electricity to operate.Overall, electric usage generally peaks in the summertime, and higher usage is reflected in monthly bills based on the weather and each customer's typical usage, she said.Heat waves bring higher electric use, and PPL Electric Utilities also reminds its customers that there are many no-cost and low-cost ways to save on their bills, such as making sure their drapes and shades are pulled during the day to block the sun; the fact that most people can be comfortable in the summer wearing light clothing, along with a thermostat temperature setting between 72 and 78 degrees, Obando-Derstine said."You will save energy for every degree higher you can set your thermostat," she said. "The federal Department of Energy recommends 78 degrees."Obando-Derstine urged customers to minimize the use of heat-generating appliances like the dishwasher, stove, and washer and dryer during the warmest hours of the day.Incandescent light bulbs also produce heat, so switching to cooler and more efficient LED bulbs can be a smart choice, she said.Ceiling fans are wonderful to have for air movement, and they are economical to operate, Obando-Derstine said, adding that it costs much less to move air than to cool it.But use ceiling fans only in the rooms that will be occupied, she said, adding that using a ceiling fan often lets people raise the temperature setting on their thermostat by one to three degrees.Obando-Derstine said PPL has a variety of programs to help those who may be struggling to pay their bills.For more information, visit

www.pplelectric.com/billhelp.