How much does central AC cost?
It costs about $5,500 to install an energy efficient air conditioner. If you’re replacing an older air conditioner, you’ll save 38% or about $1,830 over 15-years. Financing would cost about $60 a month or less than $50 a month with the energy savings…READ MORE
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How to get double insulation incentives
Starting July 1st, the Energy Trust of Oregon expanded eligibility for the Savings Within Reach Program, offering increased incentives for moderate-income people and people affected by COVID. We dive into the incentives, eligibility, and first steps…READ MORE
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HVAC Service: Save up to 15% in 1-minute
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems require service and maintenance. Just like changing the oil in your car, you have to regularly service your HVAC systems to keep them operating efficiently. For example, replacing a dirty air filter…READ MORE
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Save 10% a year with your thermostat
Most of the energy that we use at home - about 54% - goes towards space heating and cooling. To make a real reduction in your energy bills, start with a focus on heating and cooling, since that's where there's the most room for improvement. In this…READ MORE
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Save $145 a year – Lighting and electronics
Here’s how to save on lighting and electronics: (1) Install LED bulbs, which use 80% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescents. (2) Use advanced power strips to save up to $100 a year by reducing electricity waste when devices are idle…READ MORE
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DIY or call insulation contractors?
Have you thought about rolling up your sleeves and sealing air leaks or adding home insulation yourself? If so, this article is for you. You’ll find an overview of projects you could probably do yourself and projects that are best left to insulation contractors…READ MORE
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Windows open or closed when hot?
If it’s hotter outside than inside, then you should keep the windows closed. That said, there’s a lot you can do to cool your home by strategically opening, closing, and covering your windows at the right time. Here’s what to know …READ MORE
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Dishwashers save $111 / 230 hours a year
If you find yourself cooking more at home, then you're also cleaning more dishes. So what saves the most energy: Washing dishes by hand or using your dishwasher? ENERGY STAR estimates that you'll save about $111 a year on energy bills by using…READ MORE
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4 signs it’s time to call an HVAC contractor
Most people have a tendency to put off routine maintenance for household appliances and utilities for as long as possible. It's understandable - no one wants to have to take the time and save up for what could end up being an expensive set of repairs…READ MORE
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Add HVAC maintenance to your to-do list
The holidays are here, and for many homes, that means a lengthy to-do list. From purchasing and decorating a tree to stringing up lights outside your home, there's already plenty of chores to take care of. However, one you should absolutely add to…READ MORE
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Drafty home? How insulation can help
While you theoretically could help avoid drafty areas in your home by cranking up the thermostat, you'd still be left with uneven heating across multiple rooms. Increasing your thermostat's temperature will help draftier areas feel warmer, but then you'll…READ MORE
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Installing attic, wall, and floor insulation
What’s it like to install attic insulation, wall insulation, and floor insulation? Here we give an overview of what we do and why it matters. For example, when hiring a contractor for wall insulation, make sure they remove your siding rather than cutting holes…READ MORE
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Easy ways to avoid high heating bills
Fall is here, and while the changing of seasons is always interesting, the shift to colder temperatures can cause your energy bill to skyrocket. After all, in an average home, heating and cooling make up 54% of annual utility bills. So what is there that you can…READ MORE
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Carbon free home heating and cooling
Cities across the West, including Seattle and San Jose, are considering similar limitations on natural gas in new buildings. So what’s with the move away from natural gas? Our article this month gives an overview of the trend and describes the preferred…READ MORE
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How to maintain your home this winter
While it might feel a bit early to start thinking about winter home maintenance, you should be getting your checklist together as soon as possible. Having a plan sooner rather than later ensures you can call all the right professionals before the height of…READ MORE
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Seasonal changes for your home HVAC
Summer is waning and fall is approaching. As temperatures cool and the days shorten, the cooling load on your HVAC system will drop, and days will be moderate enough that you will not need heating. This is the perfect time to maintain your HVAC system…READ MORE
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Oregon’s ductless heat pump incentives
Energy efficiency is crucial not only for the environment but also for our own electric bills. Fortunately, you could possibly be paid to save by installing a ductless heat pump in your own home. What cash incentives are available for ductless heat pumps…READ MORE
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Energy efficiency at home and on the road
When it comes to choosing the best mode of transportation for a trip, we typically weigh speed, cost, and comfort. But what about the fuel efficiency? Here we compare the climate impact of five different ways to travel this summer. You might be suprised…READ MORE
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All your heat pump questions answered
What do heat pumps do? What is a ducted heat pump? What is the most effective way to heat my home? Could I be saving money? We get lots of questions about heat pump systems. Feel free to check out our answers to common heat pump questions…READ MORE
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Improve air conditioning with attic insulation
Insulation provides a barrier against air leakage. By preventing the release of both hot and cold air from the home (and the entrance of hot and cold air from the outdoors), your house is better able to maintain its temperature. This triggers a domino…READ MORE
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