Introduction to Staying Cool in SoCal
As hotter temps hit Southern California this week, cities and counties are offering resources for residents to stay cool.
Southern California will experience the peak of its heat spell on Wednesday and Thursday, which will be especially felt in areas farther inland with temperatures likely to exceed 100 degrees.
Cooling centers will be open across the region, and many counties are offering energy efficiency programs and rebates for those struggling to pay utility bills amid high temperatures.
Los Angeles County
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is offering rebates of up to $275 on air conditioners for older adults, income-qualified families and those living in underserved communities.
“It is a great opportunity to receive free air conditioning units that can help you stay cool and healthy during these hot summer months,” said Jackie Magarin, supervisor for the Cool LA rebate program.
Customers can purchase up to two Energy Star certified air conditioner units per account here.
To qualify, customers must have an active electric account and be a participant of a discount program at time of purchase, including the EZ-Save Program, Senior Citizen/Disability Lifeline Rate Program, Life-Support Equipment Discount Program and Physician Certified Allowance Discount.
“Many of our customers who are currently on these discount programs can take advantage of this rebate,” Magarin said.
Azusa also offers rebates for home weatherization and Energy Star appliances, including ceiling fans and air conditioners.
Pasadena’s Department of Water and Power are currently offering rebates for cooling devices like thermostats, ceiling fans and room air conditioner units.
In the city of Los Angeles, hundreds of cooling centers are open for relief, Mayor Karen Bass announced Tuesday, including libraries, parks and pools.
Inland Empire
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory Wednesday for the Inland Empire, including Corona, Riverside, Ontario, San Bernardino, Moreno Valley, Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga, that will remain in effect until 8 p.m. on Thursday.
To avoid heat illness, NWS reminds community members to hydrate, stay in rooms with air-conditioning, avoid the sun and check-in on relatives and neighbors.
Riverside is also offering customers rebates when they purchase and install energy-efficient air conditioning systems through its Residential Heating and Cooling Rebate program.
There are several cooling centers across the Inland Empire. Riverside is offering over 60 centers, and residents of San Bernardino County can find a nearby location with a map on its website.
Orange County
Orange County encourages community members to find heat relief at its various cooling centers, which can be found in its online directory.
Anaheim Public Utilities offers smart thermostats, air conditioning tune-ups, room air conditioning replacement and other cooling products and services to income-qualifying customers.
Resources across Southern California
SoCalRen offers a list of other energy assistance programs and utility company rebate programs throughout the region on its website.
California’s Department of Community Services and Development also offers a program to help low-income households pay for cooling. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, a federally funded program focused on helping low-income households pay for heating or cooling, can help residents pay energy bills or provide in-home weatherization services.
Conclusion
Southern California residents can take advantage of various resources to stay cool during the heat spell. From rebates on air conditioners to cooling centers, there are many ways to beat the heat. It’s essential to stay informed about the available resources and take necessary precautions to avoid heat illness.
FAQs
Q: What is the Cool LA rebate program?
A: The Cool LA rebate program offers rebates of up to $275 on air conditioners for older adults, income-qualified families, and those living in underserved communities.
Q: How can I find a cooling center near me?
A: You can find a cooling center near you by visiting the website of your local city or county government.
Q: What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program?
A: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay for heating or cooling.
Q: How can I qualify for the rebates offered by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power?
A: To qualify, customers must have an active electric account and be a participant of a discount program at the time of purchase, including the EZ-Save Program, Senior Citizen/Disability Lifeline Rate Program, Life-Support Equipment Discount Program, and Physician Certified Allowance Discount.
