Cranking Up the Savings Through Energy Efficiency

Strategic Insights -

As the winter months bring colder temperatures, many individuals are likely to rely on their heating systems to stay warm. However, using a heating system can significantly increase energy bills, and according to Entergy, heating and air conditioning can account for more than 50% of a home's energy usage. To combat this, the company suggests taking simple steps to make a home more energy-efficient, such as adjusting the thermostat, sealing air leaks, and leveraging the sun's natural warmth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Adjusting the thermostat to 68 degrees during the winter months can reduce energy usage and save on utility bills.
  • Every degree above 68 degrees can increase the bill by about 3%, with a potential 30% increase for every 10 degrees above 68.
  • Sealing air leaks by installing weather stripping around doors, windows, and other potential entry points can help keep warm air in and cold air out.
  • Conserve hot water by wrapping an electric water heater with a water heater blanket and setting the thermostat to 120 degrees or medium.
  • Keeping all doors and windows closed can help maintain a consistent temperature and prevent heating systems from working harder to heat a room.
  • Running fans at a low speed clockwise during the winter helps circulate warm air and prevent cold air from blowing down on occupants.
  • Keeping heat registers and air returns unobstructed by curtains or furniture can ensure proper airflow and heating efficiency.
  • Leveraging sunlight during the day by opening curtains and blinds can provide natural warmth, and closing them at night reduces heat loss.
  • Entergy Louisiana and New Orleans customers can take advantage of free in-home assessments and rebates for energy-efficient upgrades through the Entergy Solutions and EnergySmart programs.
  • Virtual assessments are also available for those who cannot have an in-person assessment.
  • Customers struggling to pay utility bills due to the pandemic can apply for flexible payment arrangements through Enhanced Customer Assistance or The Power to Care program.

Statistics:

  • Heating and air conditioning can account for more than 50% of a home's energy usage.
  • Adjusting the thermostat to 68 degrees during the winter months can reduce energy usage and save on utility bills.
  • Every degree above 68 degrees increases the bill by about 3%.
  • Entergy delivers electricity to 2.9 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
  • Entergy has annual revenues of $11 billion and approximately 13,600 employees.

Sources:

  • EntergySolutionsLA.com
  • EnergySmartNOLA.com
  • Entergy.com
  • entergyneworleans.com
  • entergylouisiana.com