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Variable Speed Pool Pumps Can Lower Electricity Bills for Pool Owners in TX

Homes with swimming pools use 40-50% more electricity than homes without one. The amount of additional usage varies based on the type and size of pool pump and how long it runs.

A standard 2000 watt pool pump will use around 480 kWh a month. An equivalent variable speed 300 watt pool pump will use around 72 kWh a month. That’s a huge difference in electricity usage.

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Air Conditioners vs. Fans: Which is Best?

For as long as there’s been air conditioning, there’s probably been the debate. Air Conditioners or Fans. Which is best?

When it comes to air conditioning vs. fans, we say both! Air conditioning keeps the air cool in your home. And ceiling fans can create an additional cooling effect that makes you feel up to 4* cooler.

In this article we tell you how air conditioners and fans work to cool your home. And we look at air conditioners vs. fans from two aspects: keeping you cool and keeping your electricity bill low.

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How to Get Help Paying Electric Bill

With rising electricity costs, you may need help with your power bill. If you need help with your electric bill in Texas, there are three basic options.

  1. Contact Your Electricity Provider: Your REP is the first point of contact if you need help paying your power bill in Texas. Working with them can give you a bill payment extension and keep you from being disconnected.
  2. Call 211 Utility Assistance: Texas 211 is a central clearing house of resources. The 211 operator may be able to match you to available aid programs.
  3. See if you qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program provides bill payment assistance for those on SSI or that earn less than 150% of the Federal Income Poverty Guidelines.

Below we provide additional information on each option. Plus ideas for bill payment help for those who are not low income.

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Reading Your Commercial Electricity Bill & TDSP Charges for Your Business

Are there ways to save on your business electricity bill? Doing so starts with understanding what makes up your commecial electricity bill. Across all types of energy markets, commercial electricity bills typically have three sections – delivery charges, supply charges and demand charges.

Learning more about each can help you cut your business’ electricity bill. and this helpful guide on reading your business’s electricity bill is a great foundation

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Sustainable Home vs. Eco Friendly Home – What’s the Difference?

Sustainable living, green households, eco friendly homes. Are they all just marketing terms? Or do they mean something?

Eco-friendly focuses on reducing harm to the environment, while sustainability considers the future impact of today’s actions. In this article, we’ll dive into the definitions of each term, and provide a case study example to further illustrate the difference, so you can make changes to your own household.

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What the Best Thermostat Setting When on Vacation?

The plans have been made. The bags are packed. You deserve a vacation. But what are the best thermostat settings for vacation to keep your electricity bill low? In other words, when you’re in vacation mode, is there a vacation mode for your house?

Key Takeaways

The best approach for vacation thermostat settings is 10 degrees higher (summer) or lower (winter) than you normally set it when away from home. This lowers the amount of time your HVAC system is running while you are away.

  • Summer vacation thermostat setting 80-85°
  • Winter vacation thermostat setting: 50-60°
  • If you have pets at home, consider their comfort as well when choosing a vacation thermostat setting.
  • Never turn your thermostat completely off when on vacation, to avoid mold and mildew or freezing pipes.

If you’re planning your trip now, consider our tips for adjusting the thermostat settings to reduce energy, create a comfortable environment for your pets and lessen household damage risks.

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