ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling? (Formerly known as Nature First)?
2. How does ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling work?
3. How much can I earn?
4. Will the switch that ComEd installs harm my air conditioner?
5. Will my air conditioner's warranty be affected?
6. Can I really make a difference by signing up?
7. I have more than one air conditioning unit. Can I get more credits?
8. Will ComEd continue to maintain the control switch to insure that it is operating correctly?
9. How does ComEd decide when to use the switch?
10. How often will ComEd use the switch?
11. Will I notice a change in the temperature inside my house when the switch is used?

What is ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling? (Formerly known as Nature First)?
ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling is a demand response program for central air-conditioners that allows homeowners like you to earn credits on your electricity bill.
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How does ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling work?
Once you enroll, ComEd will install a special switch on your central air conditioning unit that lets them cycle your compressor "on and off" during summer days with high electric demand. In return, you will receive a monthly credit on each ComEd bill from June through September.
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How much can I earn?
Depending upon which program level you choose, you can earn a total annual credit of either $20 or $40 by giving up a few degrees of cooling during a limited number of summer weekdays. If you select the 50% option, you will receive a $5 credit / month for each month beginning June 1 through September 30. If you select the 100% option, you will receive a $10 credit /month for each month beginning June 1 through September 30. These savings are guaranteed!
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Will the switch that ComEd installs harm my air conditioner?
No. Your air conditioning compressor cycles "off and on" normally. The switch simply allows ComEd to manage the cycling times to reduce electrical demand.
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Will my air conditioner's warranty be affected?
No. Each switch is tested before installation and has been approved by top air conditioner manufacturers such as Carrier, York, Lennox and Trane.
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Can I really make a difference by signing up?
Yes! By participating in ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling, you contribute to ComEd's ability to provide reliable service for everyone by reducing peak demand on the electrical system. Each summer that ComEd has used the switch, ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling participants have reduced carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. These elements contribute to global warming. ComEd's Central Air Conditioning Cycling, and similar programs, can also help defer the need for new generation resources like peaker plants, that can add to the cost of providing electricity.
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I have more than one air conditioning unit. Can I get more credits?
No. Since air conditioner efficiency varies by unit, the square footage of your home and other actors, we can only offer a $20 or $40 credit per household.
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Will ComEd continue to maintain the control switch to insure that it is operating correctly?
Yes, ComEd will periodically send someone out to inspect the control switch to insure that it is working properly. If you are getting a new air conditioning compressor or, for any reason, the control switch becomes disconnected (i.e., vandalism or other causes) you will need to contact ComEd to reconnect it.
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How does ComEd decide when to use the switch?
It depends on overall demand from customers, which is usually dictated by the weather. Typical peak demand occurs when the temperature is extremely hot with high humidity and our system is reaching capacity.
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How often will ComEd use the switch?
Based on past experience you can expect the switch to be cycled two or three times (a total of approximately 6 to 9 hours) during the summer. The maximum number of days cycling can occur is 20 days (120 hours) for the entire summer.
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Will I notice a change in the temperature inside my house when the switch is used?
With the 50% option, many people don't even notice a difference in their comfort level. If you select this option, ComEd can cycle your air conditioner off for 15 minutes every half hour (if needed) on weekends (excluding holidays) between 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Unit cycles off: Maximum of 15 minutes every half hour (if needed).
You receive: $5 credit/month per household, June 1 through September 30. The total credit will be $20. At the 100% option, you will likely notice it getting a few degrees warmer over a three-hour period. Your air conditioner's fan remains on, circulating the already cooled air throughout your home. Also, cycling only occurs during weekdays when many people aren't home.
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