Feb 24, 2021 | Energy Efficiency
It’s been a whole year since the pandemic shifted our daily activities, interactions, and the way we work and attend school. We have some tried–and–true tips that will help you save energy and money no matter how much longer we’re all staying safe at home.
In the kitchen
Here are a few of our favorite ENERGY STAR® tips, to help you save energy as you prepare those delicious home-cooked meals.
Let there be light: Make sure all your light fixtures have LEDs, which use less energy and last much longer than traditional bulbs. And here’s an easy one: When you leave the kitchen, turn off the lights.
Clear the vents: Make sure all your air registers or floor vents are clear of furniture so the air can circulate freely. If your home has radiators, place heat-resistant reflectors between the radiators and walls.
Scrape to save: You can save water by scraping your dishes clean instead of rinsing them before placing them in the dishwasher. And, only run the dishwasher when it’s full.
Flip the fridge: Older refrigerators can use 20% more energy than ENERGY STAR® certified models. So, if your fridge is a relic, consider an upgrade. Also, if you have an old refrigerator running in the garage or basement, think about making a change.
Fix those faucets: Hot water leaking at a rate of one drop per second can waste up to $35 in electricity per year. Plus, leaks obviously waste water and, let’s be honest, can be annoying. Fix those faucets and save!
Electronics
Taking these simple steps to make your home more energy efficient can save you money whether you’re working from home or back to business as usual.
Screensaver = energy waster. Your computer and monitor are still fully powered when a screen saver turns on. Save energy by enabling sleep mode on these devices or shut them down when you’re not using them.
Use power strips. Household electronics tend to draw small amounts of power when they’re on standby mode. Power strips make it easy to power down your workstation with the flip of a switch. Smart power strips sense and cut power when electronics go into standby mode. It’s a small investment that could save you money in the long run.
Let the light in. Keep the blinds and curtains in your home open. Letting more sun in will help keep your home warm so your heating system doesn’t have to work quite as hard. Plus, natural light from your windows is great for all those video calls. 
For more energy saving tips, visit savewithppl.com
Feb 16, 2021 | Safety and Security
In-person gatherings may be limited again this year, but that doesn’t mean we’re skipping celebrations altogether. Despite the pandemic, birthdays, graduations, weddings and holidays are still taking place – and balloons are still a preferred way to mark the occasions.
Balloons – particularly balloons made of mylar – are fun and festive, but did you know that they could also pose a safety risk around electrical wires?
Mylar balloons have a metallic coating that conducts electricity. If a mylar balloon drifts off and touches an overhead power line, it can lead to downed wires, fires or other injuries; and, it could cause power outages.
Help us keep our communities safe – and keep the lights on – by making sure you hold on tight to those mylar balloons. Tie them to a secure object, and if it’s a windy day, bring them inside just to be safe.
Source: Edison Electric Institute (EEI)
Feb 11, 2021 | Community Involvement, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion
On February 2, Monica Brooks, our manager of diversity & inclusion, stole the show as a panelist at the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion event at a Local Leaders Summit. The virtual event was presented to Leadership Lycoming alumni and included conversations around building a powerful and dynamic culture. Leadership Lycoming offers professional development opportunities for aspiring leaders and community volunteers. Over 100 graduates of the program attended the event.
Monica, along with the other panelists, discussed several topics, including:
- Creating awareness of implicit bias
- Diversity in the workplace
- Benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Building authentic relationships and trust
Monica gave examples of our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion by talking about PPL’s Business Resource Groups, company policies, standards of integrity, and hiring practices. She also shared examples of our leaders’ commitment and dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace.
“At PPL we create an environment where people feel heard,” said Monica. “Employees know they can show up and be their true selves without judgment.”
The audience enjoyed a personal story Monica shared about her eagerness to advocate for fellow students as early as elementary school. Everyone agreed she was destined for this role.
To learn more about PPL’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, visit pplweb.com
Feb 1, 2021 | Community Involvement
We’re kicking off our annual Operation HELP campaign with hopes of helping more eligible families than ever before.
Operation HELP offers grants to customers struggling with their energy bills. And after a year like 2020, they can really use our support.
Every year, we support Operation HELP with nearly one million dollars in grant money. Our generous employees and customers also donate to help those in need. It’s the customer support that makes the program truly special. We can all find a way to help our community.
If you are able, we’re asking you to consider a donation. Your contribution, whether a one-time donation, or a few dollars every month, will help our neighbors keep their homes warm.
We live and work in this community together so when our friends, families, and neighbors need a hand, we deliver.
Visit pplelectric.com/operationhelp to learn more or donate.
Jan 27, 2021 | Energy Efficiency
This winter, you can keep cozy inside – and enjoy smart energy savings – by making sure your heating system is running at maximum efficiency. Here are a few simple steps you can take:
- Change your heating system’s air filter. A dirty air filter reduces your home’s air quality and the airflow through your HVAC system. Changing or cleaning the filter once a month will not only give you fresher air and prolong the life of your HVAC system, but it will save you money.
- Have your heating system inspected at least once a year. HVAC technicians can keep your system operating properly and efficiently. Annual inspections help you save energy, help your heating system live a longer life and prevent emergency problems from developing in the dead of winter. If your system needs replaced, be sure to have it properly installed. According to ENERGY STAR®, improper installation can reduce the efficiency of your system by up to 30%, costing you more on your utility bills.
- Use the “auto” setting on your thermostat. This will make sure your HVAC system only turns on when your indoor temperature drops below a certain temperature. Having the fan push air through your home all day and night wastes energy and adds to the wear and tear on your system.
- Upgrade your home’s insulation. In a well-insulated home, less heat escapes in the winter and less cool air escapes in the summer. That means you stay comfortable and reduce the amount of energy you use. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs by adding insulation and sealing cracks and openings.
