Stay safe and manage your bill this summer

Most customers use more electricity in the summer. Hotter temperatures mean air conditioners work harder to keep homes cool. And school's out, so families are spending more time at home using appliances, electronics and lights. We've got energy saving ideas to help you keep your cool.

Reduce energy use in the summer with these helpful tips.

house cutout with sunshine
Close the shades.
Keep rooms cooler by keeping the shades closed.
smart thermostat
Turn up your thermostat.
Set it to 78 degrees when you're home and awake. Keep it as high as possible to sleep comfortably at night. Turn it off when you’re not home. Smart thermostats take out the guesswork!
man applying caulk to window
Seal windows and doors. 
Weather stripping and caulking keep cool air from escaping. Talk to a contractor if you need help.
air conditioner
Take care of your AC and vents.
Clean or change your AC air filters. Clear space around your air vents. Have a professional contractor tune up your AC unit to keep it performing at its best.
small orange electric fan
Keep cool with fans.
Fans decrease the need to run the AC. Set ceiling fans to blow cool air down. Turn fans off when you leave the room.
Find more weatherizing tips on PowerHouse TV

Monitor and manage your cooling bill through My Account

One of the best ways to manage your energy use is through My Account. With My Account, you can:

  • See your usage, down to the hour.
  • Set up high usage alerts.
  • Pay your bill or set up a payment arrangement.
  • Spread out a high bill over several months with Budget Billing.
  • Use My Home to better understand your energy use and compare it to similar homes.

Log in or sign up for My Account

Save energy with Smart Hours

On very hot days, demand for energy can spike and make power more expensive for everyone who needs it. Enrolling your qualified smart thermostat in Alliant Energy® Smart Hours helps manage the demand for energy during peak hours.

We’ll automatically connect to your thermostat to reduce your energy use during times of high demand. We’ll notify you in advance of the Smart Hours event, and you’re always in control; you can opt out at any time. Plus you’ll earn rewards just for participating!

Learn more about Smart Hours for your state:

Iowa

Wisconsin

Get help paying your cooling bills

Higher energy use in summer can impact your family or business. If you’re struggling financially, there are resources to help pay your energy costs.

Learn more about energy assistance options in your state:

Iowa

Wisconsin

How to weather summer storms

Staying safe during extreme weather is important. Here are a few ways you can weather summer storms.

  • Assemble a storm safety kit.
  • Make sure your cellphone is fully charged.
  • Don't use candles for lighting. The risk of fire is too great. Use flashlights instead.
  • Stay away from low or downed powerlines.
  • If possible, stay off the roads to keep them clear for first responders and restoration workers.

More storm safety tips

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