News

Meet KUA’s Summer Smart Squad, a team of energy-saving superheroes on a mission to help customers beat high bills and save energy all summer long. This crew will be sharing practical tips on social media to help you stay cool, stay comfortable, and save smart all season.

In Florida’s high-bill season, air conditioners work overtime, appliances run more often, and overall energy use rises throughout the home. That’s where the Summer Smart Squad steps in, helping customers take control with simple, everyday strategies that make a real difference.

From small changes around the house to smarter appliance use, these easy habits can add up to meaningful savings without sacrificing comfort.

Meet the Summer Smart Squad

Celina Pizarro – Customer Service Representative I
Celina is the voice of support for KUA customers. She helps translate questions into clear solutions, guides customers through billing concerns, and ensures every interaction feels easy and reassuring. She keeps customers connected, informed, and confident in their energy choices.

Todd Wexler – Senior Energy Conservation Specialist
Todd is always on the hunt for energy waste. With a sharp eye for savings opportunities, he helps customers find smarter ways to use electricity, improve home efficiency, and make every kilowatt count.

Richard McCrimon – Apprentice Lineman II
Richard works behind the scenes (and up in the field) to help keep the power flowing safely and reliably. From restoring service to supporting line crews, he’s part of the frontline team that keeps the community energized.

Rafael Eriksson – Mechanical Maintenance Tech I
Rafael helps ensure critical equipment at the power plant runs smoothly and efficiently. His work helps maintain dependable generation so homes and businesses stay powered, especially when demand is high.

Sparky – KUA Mascot
Sparky brings the energy, literally. Always ready with a reminder or a friendly tip, Sparky helps make energy savings fun, memorable, and easy for customers of all ages.

Top Energy-Saving Tips

Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day
Blocking direct sunlight can help keep your home cooler and reduce the strain on your air conditioner.

Set your thermostat to 76–78°F
Keeping your thermostat within this range can help balance comfort and energy savings.

Check your air filter
A clean air filter helps your AC system run more efficiently and improves airflow.

Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed
Prevent cool air from escaping by checking for gaps or leaks around doors and windows.

Wash clothes with cold water
Using cold water saves energy and is gentler on many fabrics.

Use energy-efficient appliance settings
Take advantage of eco or energy-saving modes on dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances.

Set fans to spin counterclockwise in summer
This creates a cooling breeze that helps rooms feel cooler.

Limit oven preheating time
Reducing oven use during the hottest parts of the day can help keep your kitchen cooler.

Use a programmable thermostat
Automatically adjusting temperatures throughout the day can help reduce unnecessary energy use.

The Summer Smart Squad will share weekly tips, reminders, and energy-saving ideas throughout the summer to help customers stay informed during high-bill season.

For additional energy-saving resources, rebates, and programs, visit kua.com/save