Water, electricity conservation efforts requested
MADISON HARDY | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 4 years, 6 months AGO
Organizations sent out reminders to residents Monday to conserve water and electricity as the region anticipates six days of 100-plus degree weather.
Post Falls told residents that using city water for outdoor watering and irrigation is prohibited between noon and 6 p.m. unless for repair or maintenance of irrigation systems.
The city also suggests that residents of odd- and even-numbered addresses water their properties on alternating days, the latter on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
“We recognize that with extreme temperatures, water toys and small pools are necessary (and fun) to help beat the heat. We do not want to stop those kinds of activities,” a city news release said Monday. “We do, however, want to remind everyone that irrigation is least effective and should be avoided during the hottest part of the day.”
Ross Point Water District and East Greenacres Irrigation District, which provide water service for some Post Falls residents, also encourage the limitation of those activities during non peak hours, the release said. The two districts do not have a formal, enforceable ordinance, however.
There isn't a water shortage in Post Falls, the release said.
“Water conservation efforts help to keep that peak demand lower, which in turn keeps rates as low as possible while meeting the needs of our customers,” the release said. “With the continued support and vigilance of our citizens, we can maintain a healthy water supply while keeping yards green and kids happily playing outside.”
Avista Utilities asked customers to conserve electricity through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. as the “demand for energy has increased significantly,” according to a news release.
“As the temperatures rise to peak highs for this time of year, electricity usage has increased significantly across the region,” the statement said. “The unprecedented and sustained extreme high temperatures are putting a strain on the electric system that serves customers.”
The utility company may issue similar conservation requests throughout the week if needed, the release said. Avista Utilities assured that the company is prepared for potential situations and intends to manage energy loads to help with increased use in certain areas.
Steps Avista recommends customers take include:
• Reduce air conditioning and other large electrical appliance use, instead opting for box fan when possible
• Increase thermostat settings a few degrees to the highest temperature while maintaining comfort
• Replace air conditioning filters frequently and ensure central air conditioning units are clear of debris
• Reduce the use of heat-producing appliances like dishwashers, ovens, ranges, and dryers
• Keep drapes and blinds closed throughout the day
• Use outdoor barbecues, small electric appliances, or microwaves for cooking.
“With the strain on the electric grid, the additional step of our customers using less electricity is a key part of maintaining the reliability of service and minimizing the opportunity for power outages,” the Avista release stated.
A complete list of conservation tips and outage preparation is available at myavista.com.
Information on efficient landscape irrigation practices: www.iwac.us/irrigation-and-landscape guidelines/.
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