Category: Energy

In deregulated states, there are many electric providers to choose from. That can make finding the best plan for your home difficult.

Luckily, there are several tips to help you find a low-cost electricity provider that fits your needs. Using these tips, you can save time and money while choosing an excellent electricity plan for your home.

Know Your Needs

You must first know your needs to find the best low-cost electricity provider for your home. According to research, people who identify their needs are more likely to get what they want and feel more stable.

Needs can be anything from financial security to a stable relationship. Writing down a list of five to seven critical needs helps you narrow your search and make a more informed decision when shopping for electric rates.

When looking for a plan, consider your needs and how long a provider will allow you to lock in a fixed rate to protect yourself from market fluctuations and rate hikes. You can also hire experts like a commercial energy broker to guide you in finding. You should also check to see if you can switch suppliers without incurring an early termination fee.

Look for Discounts

When shopping for your home’s best low-cost electricity provider, looking at all the offers and discounts is essential. These may include energy-efficient appliances, rebates, or time-of-use programs encouraging you to use less electricity during peak hours.

During these times, REPs charge more since generating and distributing electricity that day costs more. By encouraging customers to reduce their usage during these periods, REPs can save money in the long run.

In some areas, REPs offer discounts to help customers pay their electric bills, including those participating in state and federal assistance programs or receiving a fixed income. These discounts can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

Compare Plans

When shopping for a new electricity provider, it is essential to compare plans and prices. This can help you find a low-cost plan for your needs and budget.

Electricity rate plans typically come in two types: variable and fixed. Variable rates change based on market prices, which can cause your monthly bill to fluctuate significantly.

Many shoppers choose a fixed-rate plan to avoid these seasonal fluctuations and get a more consistent price. These plans usually last 6 to 12 months.

Alternatively, some energy suppliers offer indexed plans, which shift costs based on changes in the energy market. These plans work well for people who follow market prices closely and like the option to switch energy suppliers frequently.

Shop by Zip Code

When shopping for your next electricity plan, you’ll want to compare offers by zip code. This will allow you to find a plan that fits your needs and has the lowest rate.

Many retailers ask for your ZIP code because it’s an easy way to determine your address. They can use it to target you with sales ads or catalogs that might otherwise get tossed in the trash.

But while it may be a significant business decision, revealing your zip code can come at a cost. It can lead to more junk mail and telemarketing calls. That’s why it’s essential to think twice about whether you need to provide your ZIP code in the first place.

Ask Questions

When choosing a low-cost electricity provider, ask plenty of questions. These will help you understand each company’s plans and features.

For example, find out if the supplier can offer a price to compare alerts that tell you when the cost of energy changes in your area. Also, learn about each provider’s plan lengths and how they protect you from market fluctuations and rate hikes.

In addition, ask about time-of-use programs that encourage you to consume less power during certain hours of the day. These can save you money because wholesale electricity prices are higher during peak hours. You can save up to 5% on your bill by using electricity during off-peak hours. This can be especially helpful in the summer when it is often hot, and you’re likely to turn on the air conditioning.

Look for Independent Providers

If you are looking for an electricity plan that will fit your unique electrical needs and budget, it is essential to look for independent providers. These companies can offer a variety of different services and can save you money on your electricity bill.

The energy market in some areas is deregulated. Consumers can purchase electricity from a utility company at their default power rate or shop for a cheaper rate from retail energy suppliers (REPs).

Once you’ve found a few potential options, looking at each plan’s plan’s features is essential. You might be most interested in a company that offers green or renewable energy sources, or you may want to choose a plan with a fixed-rate option. Be sure to check your Price to Compare, the number you see on your electric bill.

Get a Free Quote

A free quote is a great way to save money on energy bills. It lets you focus on finding your home’s best low-cost electricity provider.

Electricity companies often offer incentives for switching to a new plan, such as a discount for updating your appliances or lower rates if you lower your usage during peak hours. Some companies also provide incentives for switching to renewable energy.

To get a free quote, start by reviewing your current costs. Look at your “electric supply charges,” expressed in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Compare Fees

The best way to save on your electricity bill is to shop around. This is especially true if you’re looking to upgrade from your current provider to a more cost-effective one.

You’ll need to research to find the right supplier for your home, but the results will be well worth the effort. Once you’ve researched, you can compare and contrast plans from different providers to see which will save you the most money.

The valuable tool helps you compare electricity rates and packages from multiple providers in your area. This easy-to-use and free tool will save you time and money on your next electricity bill. The best part is that you can also track and compare your energy bills, making it easier to see if there are any opportunities to reduce your utility costs.

Choose a Plan That Fits Your Needs

The best low-cost electricity provider for you will be the one that works with your needs and delivers a simple, straightforward plan. To find the right strategy, you’ll want to know how much energy your home uses and what type of electricity or natural gas you use.

You’ll need a current bill to determine your supply rate, shown in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Have this handy to compare electric and natural gas suppliers’ prices.

Some providers offer fixed-rate plans, which lock in a price and keep it for the length of the contract. These are great options to avoid rate hikes if market prices go up.

Take Action

Once you’ve decided to shop for a low-cost electricity provider, it is essential to take action. This can include calling your current provider to cancel service or visiting an energy advisor to discuss your options.

Taking action also includes monitoring your new plan’s rates. If you are careful, your electric rate could stay the same during your contract period.

An excellent way to avoid this is to sign up for price to compare alerts. This will let you know when a new rate will help you lock in a cheaper plan.

It is also important to remember that electricity rates fluctuate monthly based on supply and demand. If you need to be made aware of this, you can get caught in the cycle of paying a higher electricity rate when your needs are lower.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the cost-saving benefits and comfort provided by energy-efficient roofing materials.
• Learn about innovations like cool roofs and their role in reducing a home’s carbon footprint.
• Explore financial incentives and the increased market value associated with energy-efficient upgrades.
• Understand how proper installation and maintenance are pivotal to maximizing energy efficiency in roofing.

Introduction to Energy-Efficient Roofing

The shift towards energy-efficient building practices is increasingly becoming a priority in residential construction. For homeowners, an efficient roof can mean more than just a shelter—it’s a critical investment for energy savings, improved comfort, and reduced environmental impact. Progressive roofing technologies bolster a home’s defense against the elements and enhance its thermal performance. The concept of a home’s ‘energy footprint’ is significantly influenced by the choice of residential roofing materials and the methods employed during installation. The function of a roof extends beyond the simplistic role of protection—it’s an integral part of the building’s envelope, a contributor to its aesthetic appeal, and a key player in the energy efficiency drama. With complex heat flow dynamics, the roofing material’s ability to resist heat transfer — both into and out of the home — is essential for maintaining a comfortable interior without undue stress on heating and cooling systems.

Types of Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials

The varied landscape of roofing materials offers homeowners a multitude of options when it comes to energy efficiency. From asphalt shingles that have been a historical favorite to modern metal roofs that reflect the sun’s rays, the material choices are more varied and technologically advanced than ever. However, not all materials are equal in their ability to conserve energy. Innovations in roofing technologies have given rise to materials specifically designed to keep homes more relaxed in the summer and warmer in the winter, thereby reducing the need for mechanical cooling and heating. One standout example is the market for cool roofs, which are engineered to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials. A cool roof can significantly lower surface temperatures by up to 50°F, thus decreasing the heat transferred into the building.

Many modern materials come with an added layer of insulation built-in, contributing to their energy-saving prowess. A discerning homeowner can also look for roofing materials rated by the Energy Star program, which certifies products that meet specific energy performance criteria. The options range from reflective metal roofs and recycled shingle materials to slate or terra cotta tiles, offering varying energy efficiency and environmental benefits.

The Financial Benefits of Energy-Efficient Roofing

While the environmental advantages of energy-efficient roofing are clear, the financial benefits are equally compelling. Investing in an energy-efficient roof can immediately impact a homeowner’s utility bills. With improved thermal control, the reliance on air conditioning during hot spells and heating during cold snaps diminishes, leading to considerable energy savings. Furthermore, lucrative government incentives are available for those who upgrade to more efficient roofing systems. Energy-efficient roofs can qualify for federal tax credits, and many local governments offer additional rebates and incentives. This makes the upfront investment more palatable and the long-term rewards of reduced utility costs more attractive.

Beyond the direct energy cost savings, energy-efficient roofs contribute to the property’s overall value. This is increasingly relevant in the current real estate market, where buyers are looking for homes with sustainable features. This forward-thinking investment in energy efficiency can result in a higher resale value and a smaller carbon footprint, making the property more attractive to environmentally-conscious buyers.

Professional Roof Inspections and Maintenance

A regular roof inspection and maintenance schedule is essential to maintain the highest energy efficiency. Recognized professionals in roofing can offer valuable insights into the condition of a roof and suggest ways to enhance its performance. By proactively identifying areas where energy is being lost, such as damaged shingles, inadequate insulation, or blocked ventilation, one can improve the roof’s ability to conserve energy.

A well-maintained roof is less likely to succumb to the wear-and-tear that can compromise its energy efficiency. Regular check-ups can lead to minor repairs, preventing more significant, expensive problems. An ounce of prevention in roof maintenance is worth a pound of cure when it comes to keeping energy costs in check and extending the longevity of the roofing materials.

Choosing the Right Contractor for Energy-Efficient Roofing

The key to adequately constructing an energy-efficient roof is hiring the correct contractor. Homeowners should look for experts with credentials and track records in the newest roofing technology. An accomplished contractor who can show off their portfolio of energy-saving projects might be a great advantage. They can advise what materials and design options are best for a given home’s requirements, considering the local climate and the existing architecture. Homeowners want to seek contractors with a proven track record of producing excellent work and staying abreast of the most recent developments in energy-efficient roofing. Building a solid working rapport with such a contractor guarantees a positive installation experience and continuing assistance with roof maintenance and energy efficiency improvement throughout the roof’s lifespan.

Have you ever experienced walking out to your mailbox, opening up your electricity bill and saying to yourself “OK, how did it get to be this high?” If so, you’re certainly not alone. Lots of people have times when they feel like they are doing all that they can to keep their energy costs down and yet, it only seems to go up in the process.

That’s why we wanted to take out a moment to provide you with a few signs of how you can know if your home is using too much energy, contact Corporate Electric Company LLC to learn more about how to become energy efficient. If you pay attention to these five things, we’re pretty confident that by the time you get your next energy bill, you’ll start to see a noticeable difference—for the better.

Your energy audit is telling you so. A simple thing that all homeowners should to do to see if they are wasting energy anywhere in their home is to have an energy audit conducted. Although you can hire a professional to come in a thoroughly inspect your home, there are also websites that will walk you through how to do it yourself. One site that we recommend is Energy.gov. (Just put “DIY energy audits” in the search field.)

You keep things plugged in (unnecessarily so). Did you know that there are some household items that drain a lot of your electricity simply by you keeping them plugged in when you’re not using them? Reportedly, plasma televisions waste around 1,400 kilowatts each year, game consoles waste about 230 kilowatts, and even DVD players can waste close to 78—all because they are plugged in when they’re not in use. It would a shame to spend money on something just because it’s connected to an outlet even when you don’t need it. Take the extra step and unplug it.

You don’t have Energy Star appliances. The great thing about Energy Star appliances is that they’re designed to save energy by as much as 30-40 percent each year. So, if you don’t own an Energy Star refrigerator, dishwasher or a service technician just told you that you need to explore some R-22 replacement options for your air conditioner, you might want to consider swapping out what you currently have and getting an Energy star item instead.

You don’t have a low-flow showerhead and toilet. Although most of this article addresses signs that you’re wasting electricity, water use within the home also requires energy. By adding a low-flow showerhead and toilet, you also can save about 30 percent in annual energy costs. You can get both things for around $250-300 and it’s well worth the investment, so consider putting in on your to-do list and getting them soon.

People these days are suffering from the latest round of gas and electricity price increases, especially at the outset of winter. In these difficult economic times, wages and salaries are nowhere near keeping up with fuel rises and more and more people are entering what is known as ‘fuel poverty’.

However, there are a few inexpensive things you can do to reduce those horrendously expensive fuel bills. The following are 5 ways to save energy to make you money.

1. Tools and gadgets to help save money

• Plug in thermostat – if your heating system is not thermostatically controlled, you will continue to use fuel after the desired heat is reached. A plug in thermostat can be used to set the temperature and will switch off once this is attained.
• Electric blanket – these can be used to warm beds in cold bedrooms. Once in bed and warm, you can choose to switch it off or keep it running in ‘sleep’ mode.
• Radiator shelves – a shelf above a radiator bounces the heat forward into the room rather than going upwards like most hot air.
• A radiator key – used to ‘bleed’ radiators. Bleeding releases gases which cause the top of the radiator to be cold and allows the radiator to heat up properly, increasing energy efficiency.
• Radiator reflector panels – these can be made of aluminium foil stretched over a piece of cardboard or can be bought already made.
• Sealant – this can be used to fill in small gaps and holes which cause draughts such as window frames and skirting boards. Draught seals and strips are also effective.
• Internal letterbox flap – an inexpensive way to stop draughts from your letterbox.
• Thick and heavy curtains – these can eliminate heat loss through windows, especially if closed when it gets dark.

1. TVs, computers, laptops etc.

All electrical appliances use energy when not in use, if not switched off. TVs are often put into standby mode when not in use and computers, laptops and printers are often left on all day. Most laptops etc have a ‘hibernate’ facility which will switch the appliance off after a certain time of inactivity. When buying a new TV, consider choosing a medium sized  LCD model rather than a large plasma. Generally, the smaller the TV, the cheaper it is to run. There are TVs with optimised energy saving features on the market (look for the Trust label).

1. Home Insulation

This will protect your home against the cold in winter and heat in summer. It can also provide a certain amount of sound-proofing, useful in high traffic areas or airport flight-paths. New homes are now built with good insulation, but older properties can be a real problem to insulate. There are five ways that heat can escape from your home:

• Conduction
• Radiation
• Convection
• Air movement
• Evaporation

You must aim to eliminate heat escaping through walls, roof, floors, windows and doors. You may be able to qualify for a grant towards the cost of home insulation.

1. Think about switching to cheaper energy suppliers

You can easily access details about energy suppliers and their tariff charges via the internet. The government are encouraging gas and electricity suppliers to inform their customers about their lowest tariff. Many people are being overcharged for their energy because they have been put on an expensive tariff. It is fairly easy to switch suppliers nowadays, and you could save £££s.

1. A few energy saving tips you can do yourself

• Try turning down your thermostat by one degree. If you do not notice much difference, turn it down again. Each degree can save you money. It is more cost efficient to keep the heating on low all day during really cold weather. Turning it on and off during the day costs more.
• Wear layers of clothes, eg vest, t-shirt, sweater, thermal socks to keep you warm. Put an extra blanket on the bed.
• When cooking, double up with bakery, while the oven is on, eg savoury and sweet pies while cooking the Sunday lunch. Leave the cooker door open to allow the heat to circulate round the kitchen when finished.
• Put dirty crockery and cutlery straight into the dishwasher rather than pre-washing in hot water.
• Keep freezers full as this will eliminate gaps which require more electricity use.
• Do not use large cooker rings for small pans.