By Lara Sullivan Smart home technology provides the ability to monitor and control the devices in our homes in fun and engaging ways. Being able to automate when the lights turn on or when the temperature changes can save time. But what about reducing energy use? Here are some simple ways you can use technology… Continue reading.
By Brian Hawk Many first-time homebuyers are enthralled with their new purchase for many reasons. Some are excited to learn that their new house may be more energy efficient than their previous residence. The question is: how efficient? Fortunately, the nonprofit Residential Network Energy Services (otherwise known as RESNET) created a nationally recognized standard to… Continue reading.
By Nick Geswein One of the best investments you can make for your home is insulation. To choose the best insulation you must consider location and if the comfort and energy savings outweigh the cost. Heat is ‘on the move’ You may not realize it, but the heat in your home is always moving. By… Continue reading.
BY CINDY DENNEY When you drive your vehicle, you may casually glance at the corner of your windshield and see the sticker that reminds you when it will be time for the next oil change. If you go too long without addressing the dirty oil (and old oil filter) it can lead to trouble for… Continue reading.
BY ZACH MOTSINGER Bigger must be better! This is a common misconception of many homeowners during the heating and air equipment buying process. Although it may sound attractive to size your system to its largest capacity, from an energy efficiency standpoint it is never a good idea to oversize your furnace or air-conditioning unit. Have… Continue reading.
BY STEVE HITE Nothing feels more welcome on a hot summer afternoon than the air conditioner kicking on. But, while your house is cooling down, electricity generation plants are warmed up and running full tilt to reliably serve everyone’s needs. Your local electric cooperative is part of a complex system that must be prepared to… Continue reading.
BY RICK McKINNEY With summer right around the corner, it’s time to dust off your thermostat and schedule your spring HVAC service appointment. Before investing in costly repairs to your current HVAC system or adding ductwork to your family’s new home addition, consider an alternative heating and cooling option. You can beat the summer heat… Continue reading.
By Garrett Keiser, guest columnist While you may be getting used to the spring temperatures warming you from the winter chill, it won’t be long before the blazing summer sun is heating your house to uncomfortable levels. And just as your heating system was kept busy in the winter, your air conditioner will also be… Continue reading.
Disclaimer: The Energy column provides general information to help you manage your energy costs. Some electric cooperatives may not offer all the programs mentioned in this column. By Bob Geswein, guest columnist With spring comes a natural desire to remodel our homes or perhaps even build a new abode. Often during this time of year,… Continue reading.
Disclaimer: The Energy column provides general information to help you manage your energy costs. Some electric cooperatives may not offer all the programs mentioned in this column. By Stephanie Johnson — guest columnist, Jasper County REMC This spring, the stress you encounter from filing your federal income taxes may be relieved by your tax refund… Continue reading.
By Sharon Barnhart Recent question from an Electric Cooperative Member: “I’m calling because I received my December electric bill, and it seems a little high compared to my usual bill. We keep our house’s temperature set at 78 F and have not changed it much. Could you help my wife and I understand why our… Continue reading.
With the winter weather temperature drops, you may have noticed your house feeling colder than you remembered last year. Or, you may have been reminded that your HVAC (short for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system isn’t working the way you liked, and that you’ve been meaning to look into ways to improve the situation…. Continue reading.
Whether you’re purchasing a new washing machine, an electric stove or that new deep freeze for the garage, researching the durability, brand and customer service that accompanies the appliance is common practice. Another key topic to research is the energy efficiency of your new appliance, i.e., how much it’s going to cost to run after the purchase… Continue reading.
