PINEVILLE, La. –  (NOTE:  The 2019 Fan Drive has concluded.) Cleco donated over 300 fans to councils on aging and other agencies across the state from its 19th Annual Fan Drive to help elderly customers stay cool this summer and reduce their energy usage.

Cleco kicked off the drive May 20 with its own purchase, while employees, customers, businesses and members of the community donated fans and also contributed more than $400 in monetary donations for the purchase of additional fans. 

“The support we have received from the community for the past 19 years has been amazing,” said Shirley Turner, vice president of customer experience.  “Our senior customers rely on these fans to stay safe and cool during the hot summer months, and we are grateful to all who contributed.”

In total, 22 agencies across the state received fans which will be given to senior citizens living in Cleco’s service territory.  Seniors wishing to request a fan should contact a participating agency.

For all Cleco customers, Cleco recommends the following tips to help lower electric bills this summer

• Raise the thermostat to 78 degrees or the highest comfortable temperature.

• Use a fan.  It can make the air temperature feel 10 degrees cooler, and remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room.

• Install a programmable thermostat.  You can save three to five percent on your air conditioning costs for each degree you raise the thermostat.

• Using heat generating appliances such as dryers and ovens at night when temperatures are a bit cooler outside.

• Seal holes and cracks around your windows.

• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day.