What should I consider when hiring a contractor to make energy improvements to my home?
Q. I've heard that waterbeds use a lot of
electricity - is that true, and if so, how can I reduce the cost?
A. A typical waterbed heater will cost an average of about
$16.00 per month. The best way to save energy and money is to keep
the bed covered, keeping the heat in.
Q. Does an electric blanket use much electricity?
A. Very little (about $2.50/month), and it is much less expensive
than keeping the whole house warm while you sleep.
Q. I often need to use a dehumidifier to control
excess moisture in my basement. Is this costing me much, and if so how
can I reduce the cost?
A. A dehumidifier running 12 hours a day will cost about $34.00
per month. Use dehumidifiers only as needed. In mild weather, try opening
windows and using either natural air circulation or fans to dry up any
excess humidity.
Q. Does a hot tub cost much to operate in terms
of energy costs, and how can I reduce the cost?
A. The heater can use quite a bit of energy, depending on the
size and whether it's electric or gas. An electric heater rated at 6 kW
and used for 40 hours per month will cost about $34.00 per month. The
best way to save is with an insulated cover that will help keep the heat
in and reduce the amount of time the heater has to run.
Q. How much does my swimming pool filter pump
cost me to run, and how can I cut the cost?
A. A one horsepower pump, used for 12 hours a day, will cost
about $47.00 a month. If you are on a "day/night" rate, you can cut
this by about two thirds by running the filter pump only at night.
Otherwise, limit the hours of operation to only what is needed to
maintain water quality.
Q. What is a "Green Plug" and how does it work?
Do you recommend them?
A. A "Green Plug" is a device that regulates the voltage supply
to appliances like refrigerators. By maintaining the lowest voltage that
the appliance will accept, they can save some energy. The savings depend
largely on the age of the appliance. Tests on refrigerators have shown
that the greatest savings occur with older models, while with new refrigerators
the savings are minimal or nonexistent. (need to check on NYSEG's position
on these devices before recommending them)
Q. Can I save by unplugging appliances that are
not in use?
A. If the appliance has an "on/off" switch, turning it off has the
same effect as unplugging it. Extra refrigerators or freezers should be
unplugged when not in use.
Q. What should I consider when hiring a contractor
to make energy improvements to my home?
A. There is no foolproof method to guarantee a good job at a fair
price, but there are some basic guidelines you should follow: always get a
minimum of three estimates, ask for references (and check them), check with
the Better Business Bureau or any consumer agencies in your area, and get
everything in writing including a firm price, a start date and a completion date.
