Latest news with #summerheat
CBS News
8 hours ago
- Business
- CBS News
Tips for lowering your energy costs as summer temperatures rise
Here's how the CBS News price tracker helps you save on everything from gas to groceries With weather forecasts showing above-normal temperatures throughout the country this summer, heat-weary Americans will soon likely be turning up their air conditioners for relief. But that comfort will come at a cost. Home electricity bills are expected to reach their highest average rate in 12 years, at $784 for the summer period, according to a recent analysis from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA). The elevated cost comes as a one-two punch for families already financially strapped after this winter season's higher-than-average heating costs. Those most impacted by higher summer utility bills will be lower-income households, which often lack the resources to cover monthly payments. About one in four households say they can't pay their energy bills, according to the most recent Census Household Pulse Survey. The stakes for keeping cool are high. "Heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year," according to the National Weather Service. Higher temperatures can lead to heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat waves are already hitting parts of the U.S. like Texas. As Mayo Clinic points out, unexpected fluctuations in the temperature often catch people off guard. For those looking for relief from high temperatures and high bills, experts offer helpful suggestions. "There are simple things to do," said Mark Wolfe, executive director of NEADA. "You can do them now, and they pay off." Here are tips to reduce your energy costs as summer heats up. Low-hanging fruit As a starting point, Americans can tackle low-hanging fruit options, like using a fan in place of, or in addition to an AC. Fans use far less electricity than air conditioners and are priced more reasonably, whether you're looking for a box fan, a pedestal fan or another model. For those with ceiling fans there's a hack for staying extra cool. Experts recommend setting ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise during summer months, as doing so pushes warm air down and keeps a cool breeze going. In the fall and winter, rotation should be switched back to clockwise so that as warm air rises, it's circulated throughout the room, said Laurie Wheelock, executive director and counsel at New York's Utility Project (PULP). If you use an AC, make sure to change the air filter regularly. Wolfe recommends replacing AC filters monthly during the summer, to help units run more efficiently. For those who plan to keep their unit running during the day, you can set it to a few degrees higher before you leave your home to conserve energy. Wolfe advises setting your AC temperature between 70°F and 78°F when you are at home, and 78°F when the house is empty. Other small adjustments to keep your space cool include using indoor plants to create shade, keeping your curtains closed to block out the sunlight during the day, investing in reflective blinds or UV-reflective film for windows. Also, limit your oven use and make sure to turn it off right after using it, as it can warm up your space significantly, said Wolfe. For general energy conservation, experts suggest unplugging small appliances or electronics when you're not using them. Wolfe also recommends running your refrigerator and freezer at the regular temperature as directed by the manufacturer. "Running them at cooler temperatures might seem like a good idea in the summer, but that can drive up electricity costs and potentially wear out the electrical appliance," he said. Also, make sure nothing is blocking the airflow of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Plant life or other obstacles in front of vents can make units less efficient, Wolfe noted. Look to your state or utility company for help While it may seem counter-intuitive, your utility company may be able to help you bear the cost burden of higher bills. "Some utilities run programs to help make your home more energy efficient in the summer," said Wolfe. "They'll offer rebates if you buy more efficient air conditioners, no-cost audits of your home, and they'll subsidize the cost of installing more insulation." In New York, for example, energy giants ConEd and National Grid have monthly discount programs that provide bill credits to low-income households. Wheelock said PULP has seen ConEd customers save $30 to $45 per month on gas an electricity as part of New York's Energy Affordability program, which is administered by the state's major electric and natural gas utilities. State governments can also be a useful resource. Depending on where you live, your local government may offer free home energy assessments, weatherization assistance or an energy efficiency program designs to help residents lower their electricity bill. For those struggling to make ends meet, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federally funded initiative with a network of state-run programs, provides financial assistance to low-income households. HEAP provides eligible households, including apartments, with air conditioning units or fans, up to a value of $800, according to WE ACT for Environment Justice, a New York-based environmental justice organization. "Anyone at risk of service termination who is low-income should contact their local Department of Social Services to discuss financial assistance programs including Emergency Energy Assistance," said Wheelock. Invest in long-term solutions With hotter temperatures here to stay, Wolfe said it may be worth investing in more permanent measures like improving your home's insulation or updating your ductwork. This will improve ventilation, keep cold air locked in and make your home more energy efficient overall. Another option is installing a smart thermostat, which allows you to remotely control the temperature of your space. They can also automatically adjust heating and cooling based on when you're home. Models like Ecobee's Smart Thermostat Essential or Google's Nest Smart Learning Thermostat typically run anywhere from $100 to $200. These investments may cost more upfront but will save you money over time, says Wolfe. "In making your home more energy efficient, the savings will pay for the improvements," he said. For those ready to make an even bigger leap, installing a heat pump, switching to central air or upgrading your HVAC or AC system to one with a high Energy Star rating are other long-term investments. Something to keep in mind before you make any of these purchases is whether electricity in your state is high enough to warrant the investment. "If you're in like the northeast using heating oil, heat pumps make a lot of sense," said Wolfe. Even before you buy a home, it's worth investigating what the energy bills will look like. You can do this by getting an energy audit from a utility company, said Wolfe.
Khaleej Times
20 hours ago
- Climate
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Some doctors see spike in food poisoning cases amid rising temperatures
Some medical facilities have seen a spike in cases of food poisoning as temperatures have soared in the UAE. Doctors say this is a seasonal trend and warned residents to be more careful with their handling of food during the summer months. 'During the peak summer months, we do tend to see a noticeable uptick in cases of foodborne illnesses,' said Dr Unni Rajasekaran Nair, Consultant Internal Medicine, Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital. 'In our outpatient department and emergency units, there's often a seasonal spike in complaints of nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps that can be traced back to food contamination.' His comments were supported by Dr Salma Khanam Patan, Internal Medicine Specialist from NMC Medical Centre, Buhairah Corniche, Sharjah. 'We observe an increase in food poisoning cases every summer as temperatures begin to rise,' she said. 'This is a recurring seasonal trend.' In May, UAE t emperatures soared to 51.6°C, marking one of the highest temperatures recorded so far this season, signalling an early start to the intense summer heat that typically hits the country in the coming months. The country also saw the hottest April in over a decade. Astronomically, summer doesn't begin until June 21. Precautions With these soaring temperatures, experts are warning residents to be more careful in handling food. Dr Rohith said that high ambient temperatures create a conducive environment for bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria to multiply rapidly, especially when food is not stored or handled properly. Dr Jamaludeen Abubacker, paediatrician at Metro Medical Centre in Ajma, said he had also seen an increase in the number of food poisoning cases among children in recent times. He cautioned parents to be careful in handling food at home. 'Temperatures between 4°C and 60°C is optimal for bacterial multiplications,' he said. 'If food leftover at this temperature is consumed, chances of food poisoning is high.' Dr Salma added that everyone should take precautions when cooking at home. 'They must wash hands thoroughly before cooking and after handling raw meat or poultry,' she said. 'It is also important to refrigerate leftovers promptly and not leave food at room temperature for more than two hours.' Careful with packed lunches According to Bobby Krishna, Dubai-based food safety expert, care should be taken during all stages of food preparation including shopping and packing. 'Perishables must be consumed within one hour if they are not kept cold,' he said. 'So, when shopping, pick items like meats, dairy and salads last from the store to reduce time out of refrigeration. After shopping, go straight home and refrigerate or freeze items immediately.' He also advised to take care when transporting food. 'When taking perishables home or packing lunch to work, use insulated bags or ice packs,' he said. 'Items like salads, sandwiches, juices, milk, and cooked foods should be transported cold.' He also cautioned people against overfilling their fridge. 'This makes the fridge less efficient and cold air can't circulate properly,' he said. 'This means, food cools down slower, potentially spending longer in that danger zone when you first put it away.' However, he added that in a place like the UAE, such food safety precautions must be taken all year around. 'Winter temperatures can also reach 30°C at times in the UAE,' he said. 'So, residents should practice safe food handling techniques even during winter. However, they must ramp it up during the extreme heat of UAE summers.'
CBS News
a day ago
- Climate
- CBS News
Warmest Temperatures of the Year Expected Across Maryland This Week
Marylanders can expect a taste of summer this week as the region warms up to the highest temperatures of the year so far, with hazy skies and the return of 90-degree heat on the horizon. After a string of cooler nights, conditions will turn noticeably milder Monday night. Skies will remain clear and temperatures are expected to settle in the lower to middle 50s across most of the state. On Tuesday, skies will take on a hazy appearance, not from clouds, but due to a plume of Canadian wildfire smoke drifting into the region. While the smoke will remain elevated, it will reduce air quality slightly. The Maryland Department of the Environment has placed the region in the "moderate" category for air quality, meaning those with respiratory issues should take precautions. Afternoon highs will climb into the low to mid 80s under filtered sunshine. The real heat arrives midweek. Wednesday through Friday could bring the first 90-degree readings of the year to many areas, with highs each afternoon reaching the upper 80s to near 90 degrees. Overnight lows will offer some relief, holding in the upper 50s to 60s. A cold front will approach from the west by late Friday, bringing with it a slight chance for thunderstorms across western Maryland. However, much of central Maryland, including the Baltimore metro area, is expected to remain dry through Friday night. Storm chances increase by Saturday as the front pushes farther east. Scattered thunderstorms—some of which could be strong—may develop during the afternoon and evening hours. Highs will still reach the mid 80s before the cooler air behind the front settles in. Temperatures will dip slightly to start next week, but the cooldown will be brief. Forecasts suggest a return to the 80s for highs by the middle of next week, continuing a warm and unsettled early June pattern. Residents should monitor daily forecasts, especially those with outdoor plans later in the week, as storm chances evolve heading into the weekend.
Washington Post
5 days ago
- Climate
- Washington Post
Why D.C. should brace for a brutally hot and humid summer
The D.C. area is accustomed to punishing summer heat and humidity. But this year, we expect that combination to be particularly oppressive and on par with some of our steamiest summers on record. The heat may come as a shock considering how cool late May has been. Every day since May 20 has been chiller than normal.
CNET
26-05-2025
- CNET
Memorial Day Deal: Stay Cool on the Go With the Yoshenmo Handheld Fan for Just $11
If you live in a warmer area, you know how uncomfortable sweating due to summer heat can be. Not everyone can sit in front of an air conditioner 24/7 (especially in this economy), which is why, apart from a filtered water bottle, a high-quality handheld fan should be a must-have in your summer survival kit. Right now, you can grab one for less than a triple-scoop sundae during Amazon's Memorial Day deals, but only if you act fast. Currently, the Yoshenmo mini foldable handheld turbo fan in black is down to just $11, which is a big drop from its usual $30 price. This black version scores you the biggest savings with a direct discount plus an extra 40% off coupon. You can also save on the light blue, light white, and nude pink colors with the 20% on-page coupon, as well as by using the code 8Y2HHT8R at checkout. This brings these colors down to $12. Just note that the sale is going to end soon, so make sure to grab yours before it expires. These lightweight and compact turbo fans offer dual functionality, as they can be used as both a handheld and a desk fan. Don't let the size fool you, though. The powerful motor offers a maximum wind speed of 9m/s, and the highest rotation speed reaches up to 10,500 RPM, which is three times that of a regular personal fan. The motor is also designed to be low-sounding, so you don't have to worry about loud buzzing or distractions as you go about your day. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. You can adjust the speed (from 1 to 199) using the scroll switch on the side. A full recharging session takes around 2-3 hours to complete, after which your fan can last up to 15-24 hours of continuous use. It also comes with a USB-C charging cable, so you don't need any extra accessories. Power it up with a wall charger, a power bank, or even your laptop; whatever is easy for you. You can view the battery and the speed on the built-in digital display, which also makes it great for low-light conditions. There's a lot to like about the Yoshenmo fan, but the deal is only around for a limited time, so act fast. Why this deal matters Summer heat can be comfortable, especially for those on the go. The Yoshenmo mini portable fan makes sure you stay cool and sweat-free throughout the day. This rare deal lets you grab it for just $11 for a limited time, making it one of the best Memorial Day steals out there.
