The Low Hanging Electrical Fruit

REDLANDS>> As the debate about the causes of global warming continues, the weather continues to change. Residents have noticed it getting warmer in the spring, staying hotter during the summer, and taking longer to get cool in the fall. This phenomenon is forcing power companies to find ways to provide more electricity and customers to search for ways to reduce ever-rising electricity bills. According to Southern California Edison, the PUC’s 2015 increase qualifies 2017 and 2018 as rate transition years. During those years, only two official rate tiers will exist, along with a third “high use” category. Customers will have the option of switching their billing plan to Time of Use (TOU) instead of waiting for the automatic switch in 2019. This summer electricity bills will no doubt be higher, but how high depends on how proactive customers are when it comes to making their homes more efficient. In order to avoid surprise electricity bills, Pure Gold Solar recommends the following steps. Customers should evaluate their current SCE rate and determine if they are going to switch to TOU early. This alone could save up to $500 per year. The use of LED lighting will also help offset electricity bills. Removing old bulbs inside and out can save up to 90 percent and significantly reduce heat gain inside. Cleaning outside compressors or condensers is also recommended. This can add 5 percent efficiency to AC operation. Replacing the inside AC air filter, setting the thermostat a degree or two warmer, or replacing the thermostat with a programmable t-stat can save up to an additional 10 percent on AC operation. Pure Gold Solar also recommends making sure that doors and windows are properly closed. If they are not, residents should replace the weather stripping and caulk around any “leaky” areas. Shading sunny side windows and doors outside will also help. Lastly, it is recommended that customers check their HVAC ducting for leaks and add fans and insulation to their attics. Doing this can keep houses 15-20 degrees cooler. It can also add up to 20 percent in additional AC operation savings.