Energy Advice

We want to help our members be as knowledgeable about energy as possible and save money each month on your power bill. Check out these energy tips and ways to save.

Ways to Save

Here are just a few examples of some simple changes you can make to save money.

Manually adjust your thermostat so that your HVAC runs less during On-Peak hours. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat. Here's an example.
Limit hot water use during On-Peak hours and consider placing a timer on your water heater to help shift the energy load and heat water when it’s cheaper. A timer allows you to use hot water during on-peak times, but will not reheat the water replaced in the tank until later.
Limit the use of multiple large, high-energy appliances – like ovens, dryers, hot water heaters and more – at the same time during On-Peak hours.

Click here for a list of appliances and the energy used by each.

Heating and Cooling Tips

On average, more than half the energy a home uses in a year is for heating and cooling. While the HVAC system is the actual equipment consuming the energy, the insulation and airtightness of the home influence how much the unit runs.

Follow these tips to help your HVAC system run more efficiently and last longer.

Set the thermostat to 78 in the summer and 68 in the winter.
Upgrade to a programmable thermostat if possible.
Change the filter(s) on a regular basis, usually once a month during the heating and cooling season.
Check attic insulation and add more if you have less than R-30. R-30 is usually about 8-10 inches depending on the type of insulation. If you do replace or add, go up to R-38.
Make sure supply registers and returns are not blocked or closed.
Make sure windows and doors are properly weather-stripped.
Have your HVAC system serviced once a year by a qualified technician.

Water Heater Energy Tips

A water heater is typically the second-largest energy user in a home. Reducing the amount of hot water you use can save money.

Make sure the water heater is set to 120 degrees.
Use a timer if possible.
Drain a few gallons from the bottom of the tank each year to remove sediment build-up.
Insulate exposed hot water lines.
Install low-flow shower heads.
Fix dripping faucets or leaks immediately.

Energy Audits

Mid-Carolina offers energy audits to members to help identify the most cost-effective measures you can take to save money. If you’d like to know more about the energy you use or to schedule an energy audit, please call us at (803) 749-6400. Or visit Touchstone Energy and play the Home Energy Ad venture game to determine how energy efficient you are.