Q: I'm looking to rent a home or apartment in a complex; what questions should I ask the landlord or manager to make sure I don't end up with high electric bills? Also, is there anything I can do to make a rented space more efficient, since I can't make any real physical upgrades or long-term investments?
A: When renting an apartment, I think you need to look at the things you can control verses the things you can't control. First, let's talk about those things you can't control- the physical structure and appliances. Knowing this, it may be a good idea to ask how old the apartment units are. Or have they been updated in recent years? The newer the unit, the newer the building codes, which should lead to more efficient insulation, windows, HVAC equipment, appliances, etc. Newly remodeled units could also provide these energy-saving features.
Now for the things you can control; first, start at the thermostat. We recommend a setting of 68 degrees for winter and 75 degrees for summer cooling. The HVAC fan should be left on 'auto.' Depending on the type of heating, for every one degree you lower the thermostat in winter, you can save up to 3 percent on our heating bill! Next, think about lighting. With LED bulbs so inexpensive, it makes sense to replace all lighting with LED units. Also, don't forget about phantom load. You know, all those cable boxes, gaming devices, laptops, phone chargers, etc. They all add up! The easy way to check this? Walk through your place at night- all those red and green lights are costing you money!
Question for our expert? Send them our way: info@owenelectric.com.
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Q: I just received my stimulus check of $1,400 and would like to use it to make some energy efficiency improvements around my home. What can I do to get the most bang for my buck?
A: Spring is a time for home improvements and safety-- let's start with safety. If your current smoke/carbon monoxide detector is more than 10 years old, it's time for a replacement. The cost is approximately $100 for a new combination model; just be sure you have at least one on each floor of your home.
Next, let's look at the insulation in your attic. Current Kentucky building code calls for an R38, while ENERGY STAR recommends an R46. If you are on the low side of these, you can add an R19 for about $600 (blown fiberglass, 1500 square foot attic). Don't forget to check with Owen Electric to see if you qualify for the Button-Up program.
While we are insulating the home, how about doing a little air sealing around doors, windows, electrical wiring holes, water lines, etc. Basically anywhere there is a hole, you want to seal it. An entire case of caulk will cost around $50.
As the weather gets warmer, it's time to ensure your A/C system is correctly charged, cleaned and running at maximum efficiency. A system check will cost approximately $100.
Finally, since we know that domestic water heating is the second largest use of energy in the home, spend $5-$10 and insulate the hot water line.
With all this done, you still have a few dollars left to enjoy your favorite summer activity!
Question for our expert? Send them our way: info@owenelectric.com.
Q: I need to replace my water heater- what should I look for when I go shopping? Are tankless water heaters a good option?
A: Domestic water heating is the second highest use of energy in your home, behind space heating and cooling. With this in mind, it is important to look for a higher energy factor (EF) when choosing your standard tanked water heater.
Most tanked water heater models today are in the .94-.96 range. These come in 50-55 gallon models with a 6-12 year warranty. If possible, you will want to place your tanked water heater inside a conditioned space; this will improve efficiency and longevity.
While tanked water heaters are still the norm in today's housing market, tankless water heaters are growing in popularity. If you are interested in a tankless model, I would suggest going with a gas-fired unit- these will produce a higher gallons per minute (GPM) flow than an electric model.
Keep in mind there may be more maintenance issues with a tankless model, as it is essentially a furnace that runs water through it. As for cost savings, the tankless model will save you approximately $2 per month in "standby loss," or the amount of energy it takes to keep the water hot inside the tanked unit.
You may want to consider the total cost of installation as well- purchase cost; electrical upgrades to your home; maintenance costs; and upgrades to your cooperative's electrical system (transformer, conductor, etc.) before you purchase a tankless water heater.
Question for our expert? Send them our way: info@owenelectric.com.
Q: How often should I change my HVAC filter, and does it really make that big of a difference?
A: Forced air heating and cooling systems need adequate return air to work as designed and to offer the highest energy efficiency. How often you change the filter really depends on the filter you're using. Fiberglass models allow more air to pass through- along with contaminates- thus needing to be changed LESS often. Pleated filters catch more contaminates, but also suppress the amount of air flow, and thus need to be changed MORE often.
When looking at HVAC filters, the higher the MERV rating, the smaller particles it will filter. Things to consider would be:
-Are there pets in the home?
-Does anyone smoke?
-Does anyone have allergies?
-How airtight is the home?
-Is the ductwork in a conditioned or unconditioned space?
Obviously a lot of things to consider! Most manufacturers recommend changing the filter every 30 days, with the exception of high-end HEPA filters, but that is talking 30 days of RUN time. In late March, April, early May, late September, early October, your system doesn't run as much. During these times, if you're changing your filter every 60 days, you will be fine.
Check out filters here, http://www.filterchange.com/, and get free shipping and returns as a co-op member!
Question for our expert? Send them our way: info@owenelectric.com.