One of the services of energy companies is to be a provider of heating and cooling systems to homes and businesses. While providing customers with heating and cooling services, they are also concerned about energy conservation and energy costs. Here are six ways that energy companies are trying to save you money on your bills. Let's start with residential systems.
Insulation Works
A residential air conditioner provides a cooling system for a majority of American homes. In fact, approximately two-thirds now have air conditioners. Gone are the days when air conditioning was a luxury! Now, for health, comfort and resale value reasons, among others, it is practically a necessity. Sealing leaks and making sure your home is properly insulated will help keep energy costs down. This includes insulating walls and ceilings in addition to doors and windows.
Change the Filters
For proper operation, the type of maintenance that is suggested includes changing the filters a few times per year, making sure the system is properly insulated, preferably by professional insulation contractors, and having the system and the heat pump inspected twice a year. This will help avoid HVAC repairs. It will also help keep energy costs down by not overworking the system.
Check for Contaminants
Contaminants accumulate in any heating and air conditioning system. And overworking the system can lead to wasting between 25% and 40% of the energy being used to run it, reports the U.S. Department of Energy. So it is imperative to keep the unit clean and well-maintained. Also, it is important to know your energy usage.
Trees, Fans and Blinds
Some other recommendations on how to reduce energy use include lowering the blinds, using a fan, and keeping the thermostat temperature up a degree or two in summer and down a degree or two in winter. Being in a shaded area will also help, as shade trees keep an area cooler naturally, without any energy costs. These tips will help to keep avoid air conditioner repair due to overtaxing the cooling system.
Now, let's take a brief look at industrial and commercial systems and see how energy companies are working to reduce their energy costs, too.
Industrial Systems
An industrial air conditioning and heating system is an absolute must to keep materials, equipment and products from overheating. In a large industrial environment, the air conditioning is more commonly referred to as a cooling system. Clearly, it is critical to the effective operation of the business. Again, proper upkeep is of utmost importance, here, too, which helps keep costs down.
Commercial Systems
A commercial system operates in an area which sees a lot of foot traffic, such as a restaurant, school, mall or airport, just to cite a few examples. It is designed mostly for the comfort of the clients and employees and to keep merchandise fresh as well. By using more LED lighting and energy-efficient incandescents, energy companies can help reduce energy use. By cutting use from approximately one-third to 80% can also reduce energy bills. This tip also pertains to industrial and residential customers, too.
Most energy companies would be willing to prepare a quote for the energy needs of your home or business. A heating and cooling system has many benefits for residential, commercial and industrial locations. In general, it improves the quality of life for those utilizing the spaces, whether it is a residence or a business. Making the system more affordable and more energy efficient is a great benefit for everyone.
Starion is a licensed electricity and gas supplier in the deregulated energy market since Sept. 2009. Energy deregulation gives consumers the choice of an alternative electric supplier and determines the rates and terms at which they purchase electric generation services. Starion services markets in CT, DE, DC, IL, IN, MA, MD, NJ, NY, OH, & PA. Starion is strategically positioned for continued growth in new markets for years to come. For more information visit http://www.starionenergy.com
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Looking to Save Energy This Winter? Check Out These Simple Tips
When the temperatures outside begin to drop, most homeowners decide to crank up the heat. But while the inside of your home may be nice and cozy, you may see a drastic increase in your energy bill. Fortunately, you can stay warm all winter long while making conscious decisions to reduce energy usage at home. So if you're looking for ways to save on energy this winter, here are a few simple tips.
Seal air leaks: If your home is kind of drafty, that may be one reason your energy bill gets so high. Air leaks can allow warmed air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to replace it. By sealing air leaks and ensuring your home is properly insulated, you can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling expenses. Seal leaks around window and doors for increased home comfort and lower energy bills.
Open the curtains: Instead of turning the heat all the way up, why not use a heat resource that's completely free? Utilizing the heat from the sun can be a great option in the winter. Opening blinds and curtains in your home will allow the sun's warmth to enter your home. Not only will you get some much-needed sunshine, but your home will be naturally warmed.
Keep air vents unblocked: With air vents being tucked into corners and behind furniture, it can be pretty easy to forget about them. But if the vents are blocked by items like furniture or curtains, it can drastically reduce the amount of air that can get through. This, in turn, forces the HVAC system to work harder to get the air through, increasing energy use. To reduce energy usage, keep air vents unblocked so air can flow freely.
Use heat wisely: One of the easiest energy conservation tips for the winter months is to use your heat wisely. This involves both lowering temperatures and only heating certain areas. If you turn down the temperature when you're not home or sleeping, that will help save on energy. Furthermore, if you have rooms that are rarely used, make sure the vents are sealed off so the heated air can be used in rooms that need it.
Saving energy can be easy when you put your mind to it. Hopefully, these simple tips will help keep your home warm and your energy bills low all winter long.
Seal air leaks: If your home is kind of drafty, that may be one reason your energy bill gets so high. Air leaks can allow warmed air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to replace it. By sealing air leaks and ensuring your home is properly insulated, you can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling expenses. Seal leaks around window and doors for increased home comfort and lower energy bills.
Open the curtains: Instead of turning the heat all the way up, why not use a heat resource that's completely free? Utilizing the heat from the sun can be a great option in the winter. Opening blinds and curtains in your home will allow the sun's warmth to enter your home. Not only will you get some much-needed sunshine, but your home will be naturally warmed.
Keep air vents unblocked: With air vents being tucked into corners and behind furniture, it can be pretty easy to forget about them. But if the vents are blocked by items like furniture or curtains, it can drastically reduce the amount of air that can get through. This, in turn, forces the HVAC system to work harder to get the air through, increasing energy use. To reduce energy usage, keep air vents unblocked so air can flow freely.
Use heat wisely: One of the easiest energy conservation tips for the winter months is to use your heat wisely. This involves both lowering temperatures and only heating certain areas. If you turn down the temperature when you're not home or sleeping, that will help save on energy. Furthermore, if you have rooms that are rarely used, make sure the vents are sealed off so the heated air can be used in rooms that need it.
Saving energy can be easy when you put your mind to it. Hopefully, these simple tips will help keep your home warm and your energy bills low all winter long.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
3 Heating Myths That Could Cost You Money This Winter
With the winter weather here, many homeowners have the heat in their homes cranked high to keep them comfortable. But while you may be nice and warm, your energy bill is probably rising. The good news is that you don't have to freeze to save on energy during the colder months. Let's take a look at a few heating myths that could cost you energy and money this winter.
You should turn up the heat quickly. One of the biggest misconceptions about using heat is that if you crank up the heat, it will warm up the house faster. Unfortunately, this is not true. Your HVAC system can't magically make your home five degrees warmer instantaneously. Instead, it has to heat it up slowly. And if you set the thermostat several degrees higher, your heating system is just going to have to work harder. In turn, this actually uses more energy. So if you're looking to save on energy costs, don't change the temperature more than a few degrees at a time.
New windows always help reduce energy costs. If you live in an old house with old windows, air leaks around the windows certainly could be contributing to increased energy bills. But getting new windows is not a cure-all solution. Furthermore, getting all new windows can be an expensive project. Instead, you should focus on smaller ways to reduce air leaks throughout your home. Did you know that insulating your walls and ceilings can help reduce heating bills by 20% to 30%? Ensuring your home is properly insulated is a great way to ensure the warm air stays inside your home.
A programmable thermostat always saves energy. While it's true that having a programmable thermostat can help reduce energy use, it only works if you use it properly. When you get a programmable thermostat, make sure to read the instructions and talk to your electric company. If you program the thermostat to turn the heat up before you get out of bed when you normally wait until you get up, it's going to end up using more energy. But if the thermostat is programmed properly, it could help you save energy.
Hopefully, this article cleared up some confusion regarding using heat and saving energy during the winter. If you have questions or concerns about your energy use, talk to your electric company about ways you can reduce your monthly bills.
You should turn up the heat quickly. One of the biggest misconceptions about using heat is that if you crank up the heat, it will warm up the house faster. Unfortunately, this is not true. Your HVAC system can't magically make your home five degrees warmer instantaneously. Instead, it has to heat it up slowly. And if you set the thermostat several degrees higher, your heating system is just going to have to work harder. In turn, this actually uses more energy. So if you're looking to save on energy costs, don't change the temperature more than a few degrees at a time.
New windows always help reduce energy costs. If you live in an old house with old windows, air leaks around the windows certainly could be contributing to increased energy bills. But getting new windows is not a cure-all solution. Furthermore, getting all new windows can be an expensive project. Instead, you should focus on smaller ways to reduce air leaks throughout your home. Did you know that insulating your walls and ceilings can help reduce heating bills by 20% to 30%? Ensuring your home is properly insulated is a great way to ensure the warm air stays inside your home.
A programmable thermostat always saves energy. While it's true that having a programmable thermostat can help reduce energy use, it only works if you use it properly. When you get a programmable thermostat, make sure to read the instructions and talk to your electric company. If you program the thermostat to turn the heat up before you get out of bed when you normally wait until you get up, it's going to end up using more energy. But if the thermostat is programmed properly, it could help you save energy.
Hopefully, this article cleared up some confusion regarding using heat and saving energy during the winter. If you have questions or concerns about your energy use, talk to your electric company about ways you can reduce your monthly bills.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
How Can Homeowners Utilize Renewable Energy?
When it comes to energy usage, many homeowners focus on the financial aspects. And while saving energy can save homeowners money on utility bills, there are additional benefits to using energy more wisely. One of these additional benefits is that saving energy is better for the environment. Exploring renewable energy options can not only save homeowners money, but can be eco-friendly as well. So let's take a look at a few easy ways renewable energy can be used in your home.
Install solar panels: A great place to start when exploring renewable energy sources is by installing solar panels. Solar energy is great because as long as the panels have access to the sun, you'll always have energy to use. And did you know that all solar energy users contribute to saving 35 Million Tonnes of carbon dioxide each year? So not only is solar energy easy to use, it's great for the environment. Talk to a local green energy company to learn more about how solar energy can save you money.
Try hydropower: If you live near a running body of water like a stream or river, you may be able to use the flowing water to bring power to your home. You'll have to figure out the best place to divert some of the flowing water through a turbine, which may require the help of a professional. But a hydropower generator can be great for homeowners that are looking for a more reliable source of renewable energy, since hydropower is considered more stable than other sources.
Build a wind turbine: Wind turbines generally require a bit of land in order to function properly -- so if you have a lot of land, wind turbines may be the way to go. However, you need to ensure building a wind turbine on your property is legal in your area, as they can make a lot of noise and may impact other wind turbines nearby. When they're installed properly, wind turbines can fulfill most energy needs and can be fairly easy to manage.
You don't have to jump right into renewable energy, but you can ease your way into it with a small hydropower generator or a few solar panels. Starting small and working with a green energy company can help you make more energy-saving choices at your house.
Install solar panels: A great place to start when exploring renewable energy sources is by installing solar panels. Solar energy is great because as long as the panels have access to the sun, you'll always have energy to use. And did you know that all solar energy users contribute to saving 35 Million Tonnes of carbon dioxide each year? So not only is solar energy easy to use, it's great for the environment. Talk to a local green energy company to learn more about how solar energy can save you money.
Try hydropower: If you live near a running body of water like a stream or river, you may be able to use the flowing water to bring power to your home. You'll have to figure out the best place to divert some of the flowing water through a turbine, which may require the help of a professional. But a hydropower generator can be great for homeowners that are looking for a more reliable source of renewable energy, since hydropower is considered more stable than other sources.
Build a wind turbine: Wind turbines generally require a bit of land in order to function properly -- so if you have a lot of land, wind turbines may be the way to go. However, you need to ensure building a wind turbine on your property is legal in your area, as they can make a lot of noise and may impact other wind turbines nearby. When they're installed properly, wind turbines can fulfill most energy needs and can be fairly easy to manage.
You don't have to jump right into renewable energy, but you can ease your way into it with a small hydropower generator or a few solar panels. Starting small and working with a green energy company can help you make more energy-saving choices at your house.
Monday, January 21, 2019
Things You Should Know About Energy Deregulation
All homeowners have energy and gas bills to pay. But in some states, homeowners have the option to choose where they get their energy rather than being told who they have to work with. This is thanks to energy deregulation. Deregulated energy companies have been around for several years now, working with customers who choose their services. So if you live in a deregulated area or are moving to one in the near future, here are a few things you should know about energy deregulation.
State-appointed utility companies still manage power lines. While independent companies and provide energy, the power lines are still managed by the state-appointed companies. This means that if there is a problem with the power lines or there's a power outage, it's important to contact the state-appointed company for your area. They are responsible for maintaining the actual equipment for providing power.
Energy deregulation began in the 1980s. Contrary to popular belief, deregulation of energy isn't a new concept. In 1978, Congress passed the Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act, which allowed smaller utility providers to have a fair chance in the monopolized energy industry. And in the 1990s, individual states took action and passed laws requiring utilities to sell their plants to independent companies. This began the movement of deregulated energy companies, which many states have adopted today.
You can choose a renewable energy supplier. One of the best things about being in a deregulated area is that you have the option to choose a green energy company. Working with an energy company that uses renewable energy sources can be beneficial all around -- customers can enjoy less expensive energy bills and the environment can see less pollution. While wood supplied about 90% of the nation's energy needs more than 150 years ago, we've come a long way since then and there are plenty of renewable energy options to choose from, including wind, solar, and hydropower.
It can be extremely beneficial for all homeowners to work with a local deregulated energy company. If you're in the market for a new energy provider, call Starion Energy to learn more about our services.
State-appointed utility companies still manage power lines. While independent companies and provide energy, the power lines are still managed by the state-appointed companies. This means that if there is a problem with the power lines or there's a power outage, it's important to contact the state-appointed company for your area. They are responsible for maintaining the actual equipment for providing power.
Energy deregulation began in the 1980s. Contrary to popular belief, deregulation of energy isn't a new concept. In 1978, Congress passed the Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act, which allowed smaller utility providers to have a fair chance in the monopolized energy industry. And in the 1990s, individual states took action and passed laws requiring utilities to sell their plants to independent companies. This began the movement of deregulated energy companies, which many states have adopted today.
You can choose a renewable energy supplier. One of the best things about being in a deregulated area is that you have the option to choose a green energy company. Working with an energy company that uses renewable energy sources can be beneficial all around -- customers can enjoy less expensive energy bills and the environment can see less pollution. While wood supplied about 90% of the nation's energy needs more than 150 years ago, we've come a long way since then and there are plenty of renewable energy options to choose from, including wind, solar, and hydropower.
It can be extremely beneficial for all homeowners to work with a local deregulated energy company. If you're in the market for a new energy provider, call Starion Energy to learn more about our services.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Starion Energy is Represented at Governor Lamont's Inaugural Ball
Starion Energy welcomes our new CT Governor, Ned Lamont, and would like to thank him for a fabulous Inaugural Ball featuring great people, wonderful music, and some of Connecticut's best eateries. Congratulations Governor Lamont!
Starion's Tom Stiner and Alex Isaac attending the Governor's Inaugural Ball at the Connecticut Convention Center on January 9, 2019.
Starion's Tom Stiner and Alex Isaac attending the Governor's Inaugural Ball at the Connecticut Convention Center on January 9, 2019.
Friday, December 21, 2018
STARION CARES: About The Charitable Organizations We Proudly Support
At Starion, we are proud of how many deregulated energy companies help local communities and promote green energy throughout the country. After all, solar users alone save 75 million barrels of crude oil from consumption every year. But besides providing ways to save energy in your home and ways to go green, Starion is passionate about the local and national charities we support every day. As a Connecticut-based company, we support both Connecticut and national organizations.
Here's a little bit about how Starion Cares and how we are trying to make an impact both locally and nationally.
The Connecticut Cancer Foundation
Supporting the CCF is part of the Starion Against Cancer initiative. We are passionate about providing ways to save energy in your home, and we're passionate about keeping cancer out of your home. Many of us at Starion have been directly affected by cancer, and understand the financial and emotional toll it takes. We aim to change that with providing awareness and donations for families in need.
Middlebury Food Drive and Toy Collection
Every year our employees are able to collect thousands of dollars in non-perishable food items and toys for the less fortunate families in our community!
Watertown Association for Youth Soccer
We are proud to support local sports teams throughout our communities. Watertown Youth Soccer provides a structured, healthy outlet for kids in Watertown, CT to train and compete with peers.
Toys For Tots
A very popular national service, Toys For Tots makes sure no child is disappointed during the holiday season by collecting brand new toys to pass out in needful communities throughout the country.
Soldiers' Angels
Would you 'adopt' a soldier? Soldiers' Angels is celebrating its 15th year in 2018 and we couldn't be more proud of them. They really run the gamut of supporting the troops, from sending cards and care packages to those deployed, to supporting those who return home and need medical care and extra support. Starion Energy is proud to have donated thousands of dollars over the last couple of years to Soldiers’ Angels in honor of those military personnel who selflessly serve our country.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about these amazing causes that we proudly support every day. We hope you check out their websites and support one or two that speak to you as well. Please let us know if you have a local charity that you would like us to look into for potential future donations.
Here's a little bit about how Starion Cares and how we are trying to make an impact both locally and nationally.
The Connecticut Cancer Foundation
Supporting the CCF is part of the Starion Against Cancer initiative. We are passionate about providing ways to save energy in your home, and we're passionate about keeping cancer out of your home. Many of us at Starion have been directly affected by cancer, and understand the financial and emotional toll it takes. We aim to change that with providing awareness and donations for families in need.
Middlebury Food Drive and Toy Collection
Every year our employees are able to collect thousands of dollars in non-perishable food items and toys for the less fortunate families in our community!
Watertown Association for Youth Soccer
We are proud to support local sports teams throughout our communities. Watertown Youth Soccer provides a structured, healthy outlet for kids in Watertown, CT to train and compete with peers.
Toys For Tots
A very popular national service, Toys For Tots makes sure no child is disappointed during the holiday season by collecting brand new toys to pass out in needful communities throughout the country.
Soldiers' Angels
Would you 'adopt' a soldier? Soldiers' Angels is celebrating its 15th year in 2018 and we couldn't be more proud of them. They really run the gamut of supporting the troops, from sending cards and care packages to those deployed, to supporting those who return home and need medical care and extra support. Starion Energy is proud to have donated thousands of dollars over the last couple of years to Soldiers’ Angels in honor of those military personnel who selflessly serve our country.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about these amazing causes that we proudly support every day. We hope you check out their websites and support one or two that speak to you as well. Please let us know if you have a local charity that you would like us to look into for potential future donations.