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Signs your HVAC is in Trouble

Man in a green shirt trimming plants near a large outdoor unit on a sunny day.

Q: How do I know if my HVAC system is malfunctioning? A: Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is one of the most important and expensive systems in your home. Detecting issues early can help you plan for repairs or equipment replacement. Equipment functionality issues can affect your electricity use, which may result in […]

Set Your Home to Vacay Mode

A person places luggage in the back of an SUV while a dog sits inside. A house with large windows is in the background.

Q: How can I lower my electric bill when I’m gone on vacation? A: Just like you, the equipment in your home is hard at work getting through the daily grind. While you are off enjoying a new adventure or time away this summer, give your home’s equipment a vacation, too. Doing so can reduce […]

DIY Tuneup tips for cooling systems

Air conditioning unit with leaves on the fan grille, positioned next to a brick wall.

Q: I have my central air conditioner and furnace serviced every few years to keep them running efficiently. Is there anything I can do to the air conditioner myself on the off years to improve its efficiency? A: There are several things you can do yourself to keep a central air conditioner or heat pump […]

Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy

Woman sitting on a couch, reading a tablet, with a large dog lying beside her on a black and white checkered blanket.

Q: My winter energy bills are typically higher. Can you offer advice on how to lower bills during colder months?. A: Cold weather can increase energy use and bills since heating accounts for the highest wintertime energy consumption in most homes. The amount of energy used to heat your home depends on your equipment, how […]

Choosing the Right Air Purifier

A modern air purifier with a digital display reading "035" is placed on a wooden floor near a green plant and a wooden cabinet.

Room air cleaners are effective along with a central unit Dear Jim: For my son’s allergies, I should also use a room air purifier even though we already have a heat pump filter. What are the features and ratings to compare when selecting one? — Sandy R. Dear Sandy: Selecting a room air purifier can […]

Beat the Peak and Create a Better Grid

Finger pressing the eco mode button on a dishwasher control panel, with the appliance door slightly open and some dishes visible inside.

Q: What does “peak energy time” mean, and why should I use less energy at home? A: “Beat the peak” has become a common message as the demand for electricity grows year after year. Your electric co-op must deliver around-the-clock electricity to power your life. To understand why it is important for everyone to use […]

Consumer Guide to Stovetops

A frying pan with pieces of food being cooked on an electric stove, with one burner glowing red and a wooden spoon placed inside the pan.

Q: I’m considering a new stovetop. Can you explain the different options available? A: I have found that most people who enjoy cooking have pretty strong opinions about their preferred fuel choice: gas or electric. Induction is growing in popularity as a newer option for home stovetops. According to a study completed by Electric Power […]

Energy Efficient Windows

A person applies sealant to a window frame inside a room with a lamp and barred window.

Q:  My windows are old and drafty, and I’m thinking about replacing them. What should I consider? A: Drafty windows will affect your home’s energy efficiency. Replacing or performing thorough and regular maintenance can help. Start by identifying the type of windows you have — are they single pane or double pane? Looking closely at […]

What is “Agrivoltaics?”

Person smiling and holding a bin of harvested tomatoes while standing between rows of solar panels and plants on a farm.

Maximizing Land Use to Harvest Both Food and Electricity Doing double-duty, layering benefits, or providing twofold results — whichever it is called — taking advantage of two positive uses on one valuable piece of land makes logical and financial sense.  That is a main purpose of agrivoltaics, or the simultaneous use of land to produce […]

Teach Your Children Well

Woman bending to talk to a toddler in a kitchen with wooden cabinets and a stainless steel refrigerator.

  By Miranda Boutelle Q: I’m making an effort to reduce my energy use, and I want my kids to start energy-saving habits as well. How can I encourage them to use less electricity at home?  A: Educating kids on energy use and costs can help engage them in your family’s goal to use less […]