Hiring an electrician in Reno might be the wisest move a homeowner can make. Electricians guard their clients against safety hazards. They are also skilled in guiding homeowners to be more energy efficient. After a close examination of such things as heating and cooling systems, lighting, and wiring, an electrician can make several recommendations that can save the owner a significant portion of their energy bill.
Home Energy Audit
The first thing electricians will do to help a customer save money is do a home energy audit. They come to the home and do a full inspection including heating and cooling systems, lighting, wiring, and appliances. In addition, they will also talk with the owner to determine the current energy uses. Their goal is to first spot any safety issues, but also to find ways that the homeowner can be more energy efficient.
Heating and Cooling Efficiency
One area electricians may concentrate on is the efficiency of the heating and cooling systems. They will often recommend installing a programmable thermostat as a proven way to save money. These thermostats allow the homeowner to set the thermostat so energy consumption is less when the owners are not home. Electricians might also recommend ceiling fans or a tankless water heater in order to increase energy efficiency.
And Let There Be Light
It is estimated that nearly 10% of a homeowner’s energy bill goes to lighting. However, electricians can make several recommendations in this area that can cut that figure significantly. Suggestions include installing more energy efficient lighting such as CFLs (compact florescent lights), or LEDs (light-emitting diodes). In addition, they might recommend installing motion sensor switches, dimmers, or even photocell sensors.
It’s All in the Wires
Electricians are also more likely to spot potential safety issues with wiring. They may have several ways to save money in that department. Many people overuse surge protectors thinking they are protecting their computers and home theater systems. However, improper use or piggy backing surge protectors reduces their effectiveness, increasing the chances of damages to the equipment. Electricians can advise homeowners where to place surge protectors and how to use them.
Let the Experts Do It
Many people may hesitate to hire an electrician to do a job, because they think they can do it themselves and therefore save money. Unfortunately, this can be a costly mistake. An improperly installed circuit can actually cost the homeowner money. Safety is an electrician’s top priority. As a result, they can prevent mistakes that can result in damages to appliances or, even worse, a fire in the home. Keep in mind they also know codes so they can prevent mistakes that may be expensive to correct.
Any homeowner who is seeking to cut their energy bills should seriously consider consulting an electrician. After a careful analysis, they may be able to suggest improvements to heating and cooling systems, lighting, and even wiring. More importantly, they can expertly install any of those items. This not only saves the homeowner money, but keeps them safe as well.
Bob Lord
Keeping homes in Northern Nevada safe for 27 years and counting.
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