Cleco donates fans to help seniors

PINEVILLE – In preparation of summer, Cleco is donating nearly 700 fans to councils on aging and other agencies across the state to help seniors stay cool and manage their electric bills.
Shirley Turner, Cleco’s vice president of customer experience, said fans can make a big difference during hot, summer months and significantly cut energy bills.
“We recommend setting the thermostat at 78 degrees to keep electric bills manageable along with using a fan which makes the air feel 10 degrees cooler,” said Turner. “Doing these things will keep the temperature comfortable while saving money.”
According to Turner, air conditioners are typically the largest energy users in a home.
“Customers on a fixed income can benefit the most from adjusting their thermostats,” Turner said. “Using less energy can help them lower their electric bill, leaving them with money for other essentials.”
Other energy saving tips include keeping curtains and blinds closed during the day and using heat generating appliances, such as clothes dryers or the oven, in the evening when temperatures are cooler and air conditioners are not working as hard.
Cleco has donated fans to agencies serving the elderly for the past 15 years.
The 22 agencies receiving fans this year include:
Acadia Council on Aging
Eunice Food Bank
Red River Council on Aging
Allen Council on Aging
Evangeline Council on Aging
Sabine Council on Aging
Avoyelles Council on Aging
Grant Council on Aging
St .Martin Council on Aging
Beauregard Council on Aging
Iberia Council on Aging
St. Mary Council on Aging
Calcasieu Council on Aging
Natchitoches Council on Aging
St Landry Council on Aging
Campti Seniors Group
Rapides Council on Aging
St. Tammany Council on Aging
DeSoto Council on Aging
Rapides Senior Citizens Services
Vernon Council on Aging
Washington Council on Aging