TEXARKANA, Ark. — Sweltering summer weather is hitting the region hard, pushing heat index levels past 100 degrees in multiple areas.
In response to the soaring temperatures, SWEPCO is pointing residents toward rebate options, bill assistance and conservation strategies to maintain a comfortable home without breaking the bank.
As outdoor temperatures climb, cooling systems are forced to operate longer and work harder. SWEPCO provides multiple avenues of support for individuals looking to upgrade their home appliances or find relief from high seasonal energy bills.
"Keeping cool is important, especially during the hottest days of the year," said Alexandria Coner, SWEPCO energy efficiency marketing coordinator. "Whether customers are making improvements around the house, replacing older equipment or looking for assistance programs, we want them to know there are resources available to help."
Residents facing financial strain from cooling costs can look into the utility provider's payment arrangements, prepaid plans, or the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
A dedicated LIHEAP application event is scheduled for Monday at the We Are Washington Community Center in Texarkana, Ark. Running specifically for Miller County residents, the event aims to streamline the enrollment process for local families seeking aid. Residents can find more details online at SWEPCO.com/BillHelp.
Homeowners planning to buy a new air conditioning unit, smart thermostat, or water heater should search for ENERGY STAR products and review potential financial incentives at SWEPCOSolutions.com/rebates before checking out.
Consumers can also combine current Fourth of July retail discounts with utility rebates to lower the upfront price of high-efficiency hardware. These financial incentives depend on state regulations, and full details are hosted on SWEPCOSolutions.com.
Lowering energy use does not always demand expensive equipment. The company suggests several simple adjustments to maximize efficiency:
Set thermostats to the highest comfortable setting.
Close window blinds and drapes during hot afternoon hours.
Change out cooling filters on a regular basis.
Turn on ceiling fans to keep air moving.
Use weatherstripping to seal drafts around windows and entryways.
Get cooling systems inspected and serviced by professionals.
With the intense heat predicted to last, the utility company urges community members to protect themselves from the weather and utilize every available resource to keep utility expenses under control.