This summer is one of the hottest we’ve seen in New York state. In fact, certain regions of the state have experienced record-breaking temperatures this summer.

Syracuse was expected to hit 97°F on August 12, 2025—the same record-high temperature seen in 1944. Severe heat waves statewide resulted in many New York State Mesonet Stations reporting record-breaking temperatures, including a station in the Bronx, which reported a new network high of 100.6°F. Central Park in New York City also hit a daily record of 96°F in June of 2025.

These scorching temperatures can be dangerous. To stay cool this summer while also keeping energy consumption and spending to a minimum, my team and I have compiled the following energy-saving and potentially life-saving tips to beat the heat. Similar to the list of tips we sent out in July of 2023, we have also included information on resources and programs Orange and Rockland county residents can take advantage of.

Stay informed, stay cool and stay safe this summer!

1. Make cooling more efficient and cost-effective:
   
   Set your thermostat as high as comfortable in the summer and raise the temperature when you’re away from home. The Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR recommend setting an indoor temperature somewhere between 75-78°F during the day and increasing it by 7°F when you leave the house.
2. Save energy on lighting and appliances in the home:
   
   Reduce the use of artificial lighting during the day and choose energy-saving bulbs like LEDs or CFLs—these consume less electricity and will last longer.
   
   Be sure to unplug appliances and electronic devices when not in use. Use power strips with on/off switches to cut off the power supply to multiple devices at a time. Turn off all exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathroom, etc., within 20 minutes after use.
   
   Keep curtains drawn and ensure windows and doorways are sealed to keep the cool air inside and block out the sun’s heat.
3. Optimize energy consumption during peak hours of the day:
   
   During peak hours of the day, typically in the late afternoon or early evening, avoid using major energy-consuming appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, ovens, clothes dryers, etc. Try to run these appliances as much as possible during cooler hours of the day. This will help save energy and reduce strain on the electric grid.
    
4. Orange and Rockland Utilities (O&R) Programs:
   
   EmPower+: Offers free or subsidized home energy assessments to income-eligible New York residents. Trained professionals evaluate your residence, identify potential energy-saving measures and provide improvement recommendations.
   
   Rebates: O&R offers various rebates to incentivize energy-efficient appliance and equipment upgrades. New Yorkers can receive rebates for purchasing ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, high-efficiency HVAC systems, heat pumps, etc. These programs will help reduce upfront costs and provide long-term energy savings.
   
   Time-of-Use (TOU) Rates: Save money by consuming energy primarily during off-peak hours. Adjust energy usage in the home to take advantage of lower rates.
   
   For more information, please visit O&R’s website at www.oru.com.