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Electricity Continues to be a Good Value

>> Given the dramatic price increase for fossil fuels, the United States Energy Department's Energy Information Administration predicts that consumers will pay considerably more for energy this winter. To ward off higher energy prices, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances may be your best option for savings. It's also  a good idea to research different models of appliances before they wear out.

Heating and air conditioning  accounts for around 45 percent of your energy bill. Consider changing out a gas heating system first. If your furnace has a pilot light, it was installed prior to 1992. Its annual efficiency is probably less than the least efficient furnaces available today. Furnaces also consume electricity, with some models using more electricity than a refrigerator just to power the furnace fan. To reap the most energy savings, opt for a heat pump.  Air source heat pumps are efficient, but ground source, or geothermal, systems are the leader in efficiency for heating and cooling. Whichever model you choose, a heat pump is the most economical way to keep your home comfortable year-round. Refer to the comparison below. (38106-01)

Aside from heating and cooling, water heating is the next largest energy user in the home. Newer water heater models (1994 and current) have increased minimum efficiency levels including more insulation around the tank to reduce standby heat loss. For even more efficiency, get a waste heat recovery unit. It connects to your central air conditioner or heat pump and uses heat rejected from the home during the summer to heat water, virtually for free. The unit can pay for itself in just a few years. As with any appliance, choose one with the Energy Star label. Products with this distinction meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy and can save you up to one-third in energy costs. <<

Annual Energy Cost Comparison Appliances                                  Propane          Electric   Whole House Heating                $831.00+         359.00*   Conventional Water Heating       301.73           232.99*   Oven                                                   25.22              15.34*   Cooktop                                              23.35             12.78*   Clothes Dryer                                   35.50+            29.99* *  Based on the Tri-County EMC Total Electric Rate. + The electricity portion of appliance is based on Tri-County EMC's     Basic Rate.    Propane-fueled appliances are calculated at $1.79 per gallon.