Power line

NV Energy is asking customers to conserve energy during what it says is "an unprecedented heat wave".

In a notice, NV Energy says the heatwave "will contribute to increased energy use and place strain on the western electric grid", so it is asking customers to reduce energy during the hours of 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

NV Energy offers this conservation tips: 

• Adjust the thermostat to 78 degrees or higher to reduce the use of air conditioning, barring any medical issues, and use ceiling fans to cool people and pets. Pre-cool your home prior to 5 p.m.

• Use large electrical appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and electric clothes dryers before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.

• Only run your pool pump 8 to 12 hours a day and schedule it to run after 8 p.m.

• Charge electric vehicles before 10 a.m. or at night after 8 p.m. NV Energy offers an EV time of use rate to help customers save money by charging during off-peak hours.

• Turn off unnecessary lights

If you plan to be out of town during the upcoming holiday weekend, you can still help reduce energy use while away by:

• Adjusting your thermostat to 82 degrees or higher

• Unplugging appliances and electronics that are not in use

• Closing window coverings to keep the heat out

• Making sure pool pumps are set to operate after 8 p.m.

More energy saving information is available at nvenergy.com/powershift.

NV Energy says it may issue a more formal call for energy conservation this weekend if conditions across the west require higher levels of energy conservation in order to ensure a reliable energy supply.

(NV Energy contributed to this report.)