When I wrote about water heaters yesterday, I wasn’t aware of the proposal by the Department of Energy for new Energy Efficiency Standards. Why it matters: The new rules are eliminating an important category of tankless hot water heaters, the more affordable non-condensing version. But it’s not too late to make your voice heard. 👇 Skip […]
👊 Water heater wars Read More »
Hot water is one of those luxuries that you never fully appreciate until you travel to places without it! Yes, even in the summer. 😉 🥊 The bottom line: Federal tax credits and utility rebates make the best options even more affordable. 🔬 Zoom in: Two great options are tankless natural gas and electric heat
🔥🚿 Are you in hot water? Read More »
Every energy using device we have has 3 price tags: first cost, cost to operate and time to replacement. Why it matters: We have been conditioned to focus on first cost without thinking enough about total cost. 🖼️ The big picture: On a 6 bulb chandelier, total cost for incandescent bulbs is 7x higher than LEDs.
💡 3 prices of a light bulb Read More »
With the new energy-efficient tax credits, payback on a new AC could be faster than you think. Why it matters: Newer equipment can yield significant savings on energy cost. The following is not tax advice. Please consult a tax expert to see if you qualify. 💡 What you need to know: Tax credits are dollar-for-dollar reductions
⏰ Time for some energy upgrades? Read More »
A learning thermostat will heat and cool to your comfort level with maximum efficiency. Why it matters: Heating and cooling make up more than 50% of our energy costs. How it works: Enter your information through Oncor’s Retail Products Program. ✅ For your Smart Homeowner list Best, Travis
🤑 20-35% off this money saving device Read More »
Uneven melting patterns on your roof can reveal problems in your attic. Why it matters: Leaky attics and leaky duct work increase a home’s energy costs by 15-50%. 👀 As the snow and ice start melting, use the chance to observe your roof. 🔬Zooming in: Good attic insulation keeps the warm air in your home. Snow
❄️ Learning from the snow melting off your roof Read More »
Pool pumps run year round and can waste a lot of electricity. 🖼️ The big picture: Pool owners who learn to program their pump correctly can save a lot of money on electricity. I wrote about the savings here. Here’s how: —> You want all the water to go through the filter once a day (maybe
🏊♀️ Learn to program your pool pump Read More »
By learning your behavior, smart thermostats heat and cool for comfort and savings. 💡 Why it matters: Half our energy costs come from cooling and heating our homes. Electricity and natural gas prices are going up. 📈 How it works: A learning thermostat does more than older digital or wifi models. Creates the ideal schedule so
👷 Your smart thermostat has a job Read More »
