VENTURA — With Energy Action Month in October coming to a close, emPower Central Coast is challenging the community to continue taking care of the little loose ends that together are having real consequences on home energy bills.
Energy Action Month is a chance for the nation, and our own local community, to take a look at how we’re using resources daily and improving on efficiency. But with every home facing its share of trouble spots, energy efficiency is a year-round issue. Luckily, whether it’s an old, breezy window or an ancient heater that’s coughing its final breaths, it’s easy to start turning energy performance around today with these simple tips.
- Turn down water heater temperature.Setting your water heater down to 120°F it it’s higher will save you energy while keeping you supplied with warm water.
- Help that water heater stay warm in other ways.Reduce heat loss from an older water heater by adding a specialized insulating blanket you can find at a local hardware store. It’ll pay for itself in one year or less.
- Remember to flip the switch to off. It sounds like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how much energy you burn by leaving devices on. Computer monitors not in use for more than 20 minutes should be off. Also, shut down the computer completely if you’re not going to use it in the next couple of hours.
- Open and close your curtains.In addition to allowing you to take in the views, opening south-facing facing curtains during the cold months let the sun naturally heat your home. Closing them at night will also reduce chills from cold windows.
- Upgrade leaky windows that let heat escape from your home. It may be time to replace them with energy-efficient models or boost their efficiency with weather stripping.
While there’s plenty you can do, we’re of course happy to help answer any questions and to help you get on your way with those bigger projects – anything from insulation to replacing a furnace — to make sure they’re done correctly. Homeowners can schedule a free home site visit from one of our experienced Energy Coaches to learn more about their home, their best choices for upgrades, utility rebates and low-interest financing. Let us know how we can help by calling 805-654-3834 or visit www.empowersbc.org.
About emPower Central Coast: The emPower program offers voluntary incentives, financing and other services to help single-family homeowners in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo Counties make home energy upgrades easier and more affordable. emPower was established by the County of Santa Barbara to help the community preserve the environment by helping to lower energy consumption and stimulate the economy by creating jobs through innovative, voluntary solutions to support a sustainable building performance market.