As students return to the classroom and summer heat gradually gives way to autumn, Pomona Choice Energy is reminding residents that seasonal shifts and new school routines present an ideal opportunity to refresh household energy habits.

With families settling into back-to-school schedules, home energy use naturally evolves. Laptops, tablets and study setups demand more power just as daylight hours begin to shorten. Simultaneously, late-summer heat waves can still drive-up air conditioning demands before crisp fall evenings arrive. Pomona Choice Energy encourages community members to adopt simple, energy-efficient habits to manage utility bills and support local sustainability goals.

Homework and remote learning technology offer an easy starting point for efficiency. Families can cut unnecessary electricity draw by connecting laptops, tablets and charging stations to smart power strips, which automatically eliminate standby power when devices are turned off or fully charged. Taking advantage of afternoon sunlight by setting up study areas near windows also reduces the need for daytime lighting, while switching older desk lamp bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs reduces power consumption during evening study hours.

Managing power usage is equally critical during the late afternoon and early evening when community electricity demand reaches its highest levels. Running heavy appliances like washing machines, dishwashers and clothes dryers outside the 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. peak window helps reduce grid strain and keeps overall energy expenses lower.

When lingering summer heat requires air conditioning, keeping the thermostat set to 78 degrees and raising it while the home is empty maintains comfort without unnecessary energy expenditure. As crisper autumn evenings arrive later in the season, households can turn off air conditioning systems entirely and open windows to naturally cool the home overnight.

Residents seeking additional energy-saving resources, local rebate information and seasonal efficiency tips can learn more by visiting PomonaChoiceEnergy.org.