Efficiency at home

Building a home?

Thinking about replacing your heating system?
The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy has helpful information to guide your decision about replacing existing heating systems.

Find ways to be more efficient!
Learn about federal tax incentives for some energy efficiency improvements.

What you can do today:

• Replace incandescent lights with compact fluorescents, or CFLS. CET sells CFLs at both our Pittsfield and Northampton offices, and if you buy them through us online, you will receive a 10% discount.
• Unplug cell phone chargers, televisions and other appliances when not in use to eliminate phantom loads.
• Turn down the temperature on your water heater to the warm setting - to about 120^o.
• Replace showerheads with water-saving ones with flow rates of 2.0 gallons per minute or less.
• Use energy-saving settings on refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers.

What you can do this week:

CET employee Bill Lafley seals a Williamsburg home's basement. Plugging leaks with caulk, foam, and weatherstripping materials is cheaper and usually more effective (and cost-effective!) than replacing windows.

• Call a heating contractor to schedule regular maintenance on your heating system. Oil fired systems should be tuned and cleaned every year, gas fired systems every two years. This increases the efficiency and lifetime of the system and reduces repair costs.
• Plug leaks and holes. If you are in Western Massachusetts or surrounding areas, hire CET to seal your home! If air sealing is recommended by your free utility-supported energy audit, it can be partially paid for through utility incentives.You can also purchase air sealing materials and do it yourself. Use caulk, foam, weatherstripping, interior storm windows, and door sweeps to reduce air flow through holes and openings.
• Install a programmable thermostat. Turning down the heat for long periods, such as at night or while at work, can make a difference in your overall energy consumption.

What you can do this year:

• Insulate your home. Adding insulation is often the best investment to save energy. Make sure your walls are insulated. With energy prices on the rise, increasing attic insulation may be a 10% return on your investment. If you live in western MA or in a surrounding area, call CET to get an energy survey. We will assess your home for insulation and help you prioritize improvements.
• Learn about incentives. If you are a customer of National Grid, Berkshire Gas Company, Western Mass Electric Company or Baystate Gas, there are incentives to help you save money when you invest in efficiency.
• Invest in cleaner resources. Save money and use a cleaner home heating oil. CET's Bio-heat Co-op offers a greener blend of 5% highly refined soybean oil with regular #2 oil.