May 24, 2023 | Reliability, Storms and Outages
As summer approaches, so does the start of the summer storm season.
We want you to know we’re prepared to continue delivering safe and reliable service in all kinds of weather.
One way we keep the lights on during storms is through the investments we’ve made in our Smart Grid. If an outage occurs, our self-healing grid can sense the problem and automatically reroute power to restore as many customers as possible, almost instantly. This technology — along with replacing older equipment, upgrading to storm-resistant poles and wires and using data to proactively trim trees before they fall on wires — helps us reduce outages and respond quicker if an outage occurs.
We’ve also made it easier than ever to stay informed. You can customize your outage alerts to receive a phone call, text message or email with updates on repair crew status and estimated restoration times if you lose power. You can customize those alerts and also sign up for billing and payment alerts on our Alert Preferences page.
Even with the best preparation and information, storms and severe weather can cause damage and result in outages. We keep our outage map updated with real-time information on outage causes and estimated restoration times. If your power goes out, you can help us by reporting your outage in a few simple steps on our Outages and Issues page.
No matter what Mother Nature throws our way, we’ll be ready. And, our crews will be there to work as safely and quickly as possible to restore power if needed.
Apr 10, 2023 | Customer Service
Have you visited pplelectric.com recently?
Here are 10 reasons you should set up your online account today.
1) It’s easy: You can set up an online account at pplelectric.com/register in three simple steps.
2) It’s mobile: The site is built for your mobile device, so managing your account is easier than ever on any phone, tablet, or laptop.
3) It’s convenient: With the site’s enhanced self-service areas, you can make everyday transactions without picking up the phone.
4) Pay your bill: Make a one-time payment or set up automatic payments, all in a few clicks.
5) Get bill help: Once logged in, you can answer a few questions to get customized payment assistance options.
6) Go paperless: Save money and time – and help the planet – by signing up for paperless billing.
7) Manage your energy use: Track your electricity use over time so you can take charge of your energy use.
8) Get moving: At pplelectric.com/moving you can start, stop, or transfer your electric service up to 40 days before you move.
9) Shop for supply: Find tips and tools to help you choose the electricity supplier that offers the price and service that’s right for you.
10) So much more: On pplelectric.com you can report and check on an outage, explore our energy efficiency programs and rebates, learn more about electrical safety and more.
Don’t wait. Set up your online account at pplelectric.com today!
Feb 15, 2023 | Energy Efficiency
Looking to increase your home’s comfort while saving a few dollars? Here are a couple of ideas to get you started.
Free virtual home assessment
With our no-cost virtual home assessment you can spend 30 minutes on the phone with an Energy Advisor. You’ll receive customized, energy-saving recommendations, along with suggestions on rebates and incentives that we offer. You’ll also get a free energy-savings kit with do-it-yourself upgrade ideas and Information.
If you rent your home – or you’re not ready for an in-home visit – our virtual home assessment is an ideal option. Learn more and schedule your assessment here.
In-home audit
Get a thorough look at your home’s energy use with an in-home audit. A certified contractor will give you a detailed assessment of your heating and cooling systems, provide a blower door test so you can see where you may be leaking energy, and give you a personalized report with rebate suggestions on energy efficiency products.
Plus, you’ll receive a free energy savings kit with do-it-yourself upgrade information, and you can get a rebate of up to $250 to offset the cost of the assessment. If you own your home and you’re looking to decrease your energy use, this option is for you! Learn more.
Jan 13, 2023 | Energy Efficiency
If you’re looking to heat your home in a more efficient and cost-effective way, look no further than a heat pump. Learn how you can save on your monthly energy costs and receive a $400 rebate from PPL Electric Utilities.
Even when it’s very cold out, there’s still heat energy in the air. In the winter, heat pumps use electricity to transfer that heat energy from outside, and uses it to heat your home. The process works the same way during the summer, but in reverse. Thanks to modern advances in technology, heat pumps provide energy-efficient heating even in the coldest weeks of Pennsylvania’s winter temperatures.
Ductless Heat Pump
A ductless heat pump (also called a mini-split heat pump) offers flexible heating and cooling for individual rooms or can be set up as a multi-unit zone system throughout the home. They consume 60% less energy than standard resistance-based heating systems and can reduce cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional air conditioners.
Heat Pump Water Heater
A heat pump can also be used to heat water. Just like a mini-split, a heat pump water heater uses electricity to transfer heat from one place to another. An ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump water heater consumes 70% less energy compared to a standard model and you can expect to save an average of $315 a year in energy costs.
Start Saving Now
Our customers can receive a $400 rebate when installing a ductless heat pump or heat pump water heater. These upgrades may qualify for our bonus rebate as well as government tax credits.
Dec 14, 2022 | Safety and Security
Deck the Halls and do it safely.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
The holiday season is upon us. It’s the time of year for fun, cheer, and holiday lights! With all the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s important to keep safety — particularly electrical safety — at the top of your holiday list.
Did you know that nearly 5,000 people visit the emergency room each holiday season due to indoor and outdoor electric decoration mishaps, according to the United States Consumer Product and Safety Commission?
Don’t be part of that statistic. Here are six tips, courtesy of Electric Safety Foundation International (EFSI), to keep you safe while decking the halls:
- Check it Twice — Be sure to check strings of lights for broken bulbs, cracked sockets or loose connections. Also check each decoration’s electrical cord to ensure they are not frayed or cut.
- Easy There Clark — When hooking up electrical holiday decorations, don’t overload circuits, outlets, or extension cords with too many plugs. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for how many sets of lights can be safely connected. Too many strings can cause a potential overload, which is one of the leading causes of house fires.
- Up on the Rooftop — When stringing up outdoor lights, always use a dry wooden or fiberglass ladder and stay clear of any overhead powerlines. You, your decorations, and your equipment should be at least 10 feet away from powerlines at all times.
- Hang them with Care — When hanging electrical holiday decorations, don’t use nails, screws, tacks, or staples to hang them. Piercing the cord could damage the wire’s insulation and cause electrical shock or fire. Try using plastic or insulated clips instead.
- Home Alone — If you are leaving the house, be sure you turn off your holiday lights and decorations. And do the same when you’re sleeping. Using an automatic timer can make it easier to turn everything off, or on, precisely when you want to.
- Bah Hum-Rug — When decorating indoors, don’t run any extension cords under rugs or carpets. Plus, be sure to discard any older, outdated, or damaged extension cords to help prevent the risk of a fire.
Don’t let something preventable ruin your holiday season. A little bit of preparation can help you make your season bright, and most importantly, safe.
