Blue Ridge Energy Blog

Energy Efficiency Weatherization Saving Money
Weatherization and Energy Efficiency: Mobile Homes
Oct 14, 2024
Most newer models of manufactured or mobile homes are energy-efficient and of high quality; however, since they can be around for a long time, the quality of insulation and climate control can vary greatly. Because of this, a little extra work is required to completely winterize mobile homes.…
Energy Efficiency Smart Home Devices
Smart Home Devices: Can You Really Save Energy?
May 20, 2024
Smart technology comes with the promise of convenience, energy savings, ease of installation and more. And although it's true that certain smart home devices can help you cut unnecessary energy use, what about smart technology as a whole? Can you really save energy by adding more electronic devices…
Energy Efficiency
Spring Cleaning Your HVAC System
Apr 1, 2024
It's been a long, hard winter for your HVAC system. All that hard work keeping your indoor space comfortable, as well as weather-related wear and tear on outdoor components can really take its toll. Spring cleaning has long been an annual ritual in millions of households across the country. As the…
Energy Efficiency
Busted! 5 Common Home Energy Myths
Mar 18, 2024
Some ideas are so widely held, they appear to bear little scrutiny or even a second thought. Although often factual, such common wisdom may be based on outdated or false information. Widespread misconceptions about energy use can increase utility bills and reduce comfort. Here are five energy myths…
Energy Efficiency Smart Home Devices
Smart Home Devices: Control Water Consumption
Feb 12, 2024
Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…
Energy Efficiency Smart Home Devices
Smart Home Devices: Manage Lighting & Power to Save Money
Jan 15, 2024
Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…
Energy Efficiency Smart Home Devices
Smart Home Devices: Control Energy Use & Save Money With Thermostats
Dec 18, 2023
Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…
Energy Efficiency
Does Changing Your Furnace Filter Really Save Energy?
Oct 30, 2023
When air runs through your furnace, the air filter catches dust, hair and other particles in the air. Those particles stay in the filter, and the clean air passes through your fan and heat exchanger before going back into your home. Over time, more and more particles stick in the filter — making it…
Energy Efficiency
Fall for Energy Savings
Oct 23, 2023
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Energy Efficiency
Vacation? Give Your Energy Bill a Break Too
Aug 10, 2023
A vacation is a great way to get away from it all. Did you know that your appliances and electronic devices can use a little time off as well? With a few simple adjustments before you leave, you'll come home to a lower energy bill. Water heater If you have a tank unit, your water heater will…
Energy Efficiency Heating
Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Ductless Heating and Cooling
Jul 10, 2023
Mini-split heat pumps provide energy-efficient heating and cooling without ductwork. They're a cost-effective replacement for inefficient baseboard electric heating and window air conditioners in older homes and multifamily buildings. These systems are also a good choice where installing ductwork…
Energy Efficiency
5 Easy Energy-Saving Tips for Summer
Jun 14, 2023
Stay cool and save money this summer with these five simple energy-saving tips! 1. Embrace Natural Cooling: Open windows during cooler times of the day to let in the breeze. Use fans to circulate air without relying on air conditioning. Photo from Alistair MacRobert 2. Optimize Your Thermostat: Set…