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Many of us get a real "shock" when we open our power bill each month. And as energy rates continue to rise, no relief is in sight. So what can you do to save money?
Saving energy will be the primary topic of an expo that will take place at the Roanoke Civic Center in a few weeks. But WDBJ-7 is giving you a sneak preview of ways you can start saving right this minute.
There's no electric bill for the headquarters of the Association of Energy Conservation Professionals in Floyd. Thanks to solar and wind power, there's just a $12 monthly consumer tax. We spoke with the Bill Weitzenfeld. “We can't just be concerned with meeting the demand now and the heck with tomorrow,” he said. “We need to know how important it is to conserve energy and to use it more efficiently because when we use energy, whether it's turning on a light bulb or starting up your furnace, there's a huge impact--not only on your pocketbook but on our natural resources.
10% of your energy bill is related to lighting. Weitzenfeld used a meter to show the difference in energy usage if you use an energy-hogging incandescent light bulb versus a low-energy compact fluorescent or LED.
An energy audit will point you in the right direction for saving large amounts of cash. For example, a blower door is often used to determine where large amounts of air escape. “If an auditor shows up and does not have a blower door, or is not going to do a blower door test, don't let them in your house,” said Weitzenfeld. An energy audit also assesses your duct system, heating and cooling system, appliances and your consumption habits. It's a test that will benefit your home and the entire planet.
“We have to understand that the current way we use energy there is an impact on our natural environment--that is very important,” said Weitzenfeld.
If you'd like to visit the energy expo it's happening here at the Roanoke Civic Center November 2nd and 3rd. The expo is free. For more information log onto www.aecpes.org or www.facebook.com/energyexpo