As the seasons change, energy costs can fluctuate, but there are practical steps consumers can take to keep their energy use economical and efficient. Representatives from Dominion Energy South Carolina, Berkeley Electric Cooperative, and Santee Cooper are providing their customers with valuable insights and programs to help manage energy expenses, especially during Energy Awareness Month.

Unlock the Power of Smart Thermostat Savings

Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of a household's annual energy use, often making up as much as 50% of the total. Energy leaders emphasize that the thermostat is the single most impactful factor in controlling energy costs. The recommended sweet spot for winter heating is 68 degrees, with further savings achieved by lowering the temperature when the home is unoccupied.Libby Roerig, the director of marketing and communications for Berkeley Electric Cooperative, explains that each degree warmer than 68 degrees can cost the average home an additional $10 per month. To maximize efficiency, she advises customers to ensure their thermostats are set to automatic mode.The energy companies recommend investing in smart thermostats, which allow customers to optimize their heating and cooling even when away from home. These programmable devices can be controlled remotely via smart devices, enabling users to fine-tune their energy usage to their specific needs and schedules.Dominion Energy, Berkeley Electric, and Santee Cooper all offer smart thermostat programs, often with rebates or incentives to encourage adoption. By taking advantage of these offerings, customers can unlock significant long-term savings on their energy bills.

Maintaining HVAC Efficiency: A Key to Cost Savings

Ensuring that your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency is another crucial step in managing energy costs. Representatives from the energy companies emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and filter changes.Paul Fischer, the spokesperson for Dominion Energy, recommends checking air filters monthly, as a dirty filter can increase energy use and potentially damage the HVAC system. Customers should also be vigilant in identifying and sealing any air leaks in their homes, as these can significantly impact heating and cooling efficiency.

Weatherizing for Maximum Savings

In addition to optimizing HVAC systems, the energy companies recommend weatherizing homes to minimize heat loss and gain. This includes ensuring proper insulation, weather-stripping doors and windows, and strategically adjusting window coverings to take advantage of the sun's natural warmth.Tracy Vreeland, the public relations specialist for Santee Cooper, also advises customers to be mindful of their water heater and clothes dryer usage, as these appliances can also contribute significantly to energy consumption.

Flexible Thermostat Settings: Finding Your Comfort Zone

While the recommended 68-degree thermostat setting is the most energy-efficient, the energy companies understand that this may not be comfortable for all customers. Paul Fischer of Dominion Energy suggests a gradual approach, encouraging customers to lower the temperature by one degree at a time to allow their families to adjust.The key, according to Fischer, is to find the right balance between energy savings and personal comfort. By making small, incremental changes, customers can discover the optimal thermostat setting that meets their needs while still reducing their energy bills.

Exploring Energy Assistance Programs

To further support their customers, the energy companies offer a range of programs and options to help manage energy costs. These include budget billing plans, energy efficiency rebates, and low-interest loans for home upgrades.Dominion Energy's Home Energy Check-up program provides free consultations and assessments by energy experts, along with personalized recommendations to enhance energy efficiency. The company's EnergyWise Online Savings Store also offers instant discounts on a variety of Energy Star-certified products, such as smart thermostats, advanced power strips, and weatherization kits.Berkeley Electric Cooperative and Santee Cooper have similar programs, including smart thermostat initiatives and rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. These utilities also proactively monitor their customers' energy usage, reaching out to provide assistance when spikes in consumption are detected.By taking advantage of these energy-saving programs and services, customers can unlock significant long-term savings on their utility bills, all while contributing to a more sustainable energy future.