Posted on October 9, 2017 at 1:54 PM by Lisa Orr
Are you dreading the approaching cooler weather and the prospect of higher utility bills?Taking proactive action now to make your home more energy efficient is one way to take charge and lift your spirits. October is historically Energy Action Month!
Why is energy efficiency important? While energy efficiency will help your household directly by lowering your utility bills, it also helps our nation by reducing the amount of energy that needs to be produced. This can lead to fewer fossil fuel power plants, cleaner air, and lower planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, it creates jobs. Did you know that energy efficiency work has created 67,061 jobs in Maryland, and 2.2 million jobs across the U.S.?
Here are some ways you can take action during Energy Action Month or any other month:
- A best first step is to get a Potomac Edison no-cost Quick Home Energy Check-up, or better yet, a reduced cost $100 Home Performance with Energy Star (HPwES) Audit. You'll receive up to 14 LED light bulbs plus getting a HPwES audit makes you eligible for a 75% rebate (up to $7,500) on recommended energy saving home improvements!
- Do you prefer to DIY? If so, Rule Your Attic! This web page shows you to find out whether or not your home has adequate insulation. If you don't, the site provides a series of very short how-to videos on sealing and insulating your attic. One of the most important places to air seal and insulate is your attic access point. Here's how to seal and insulate drop-down attic stairs, an attic hatch, or an attic door.
- Take Frederick County's Power Saver Challenge. This online tool guides and informs you step-by-step through a wide variety of energy-saving behaviors and actions. The "Read more" links connect you to how-to videos, additional resources, and financial incentives. You'll earn points and medals along the way and be able to see estimates of how your actions turn into beneficial savings including utility bill, water, gasoline, and carbon emissions savings. Many actions are "Renter-Friendly" too!
