What is a Zero Energy Ready Home?
While most of us take steps to minimize energy use, some aim to eliminate energy use altogether – at least the use of nonrenewable energy. Zero energy ready homes are dwellings that are extremely energy efficient. So much so, they can be mostly or completely powered by a renewable energy system. Many environmentalists would say the goal is for all homes to be built zero energy ready and for existing… …
Gas or Electric Fireplaces: Which is More Energy Efficient?
Fireplace safety is important but so is energy use. If you’re thinking about adding a fireplace or replacing an existing one, you’ve probably wondered which type is the most efficient. In addition to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, there are electric and gas fireplaces. Due to convenience, many people today choose to go with either a gas fireplace or an electric fireplace. But which one is more energy efficient? Factors That Influence… …
Top 5 Appliances in Order of Energy Consumption
Sure, the HVAC system is the biggest energy hog in a home, but what about the appliances? There are a number of things that can affect how much energy an appliance uses. It can be a matter of needing a substantial energy supply to power the appliance, the amount of time the appliance is used and even how the appliance is used. Luckily, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) has been… …
Lowering Energy Use as Natural Gas Prices Push Utility Costs Higher
In the fall we saw natural gas prices beginning to increase as pandemic conditions eased and the demand went up. It was worrisome given that chillier winter temperatures historically push demand even higher and production wasn’t back to pre-pandemic levels. Fortunately, November was more mild than expected and the winter isn’t looking as bleak as predicted. Still, the forecasts do predict December and January will be much colder. When that… …
How Rising Natural Gas Prices Affect Renewable Energy Plans
More and more households are making the switch to fixed renewable energy plans, and right now they’re glad they did. Fossil fuels are soaring in price across the board, but the rise in natural gas prices is likely to hit consumers the hardest. Market Data analysts are already predicting that natural gas price increases will continue to climb this winter. The primary cause for the increase is a growing demand… …