Home Energy Review

MEC Home Energy Review:

Home energy reviews are completed by an MEC staff member from our Energy Management Team to help members manage their energy usage and maximize energy efficiency in the home while reducing energy bills now and in the future. The objective of this program is to gather information about the member’s energy usage history and observations about the physical residence by phone or an onsite visit, to provide recommendations and education so that the member is more informed about using energy wisely.

Our Energy Management staff performs an energy review that includes:

• Survey of HVAC system and ducts, doors windows, window treatments and shading, thermostat, lighting, and electric appliances.
• Review living habits and behavior affecting energy usage.
• Provide recommendations based on the information gathered.
• Distribute handouts on tips for using energy wisely.

To schedule a home energy-review, call 928-763-1100 and ask for an energy management staff member to assist you with a home audit. Members can also stop by in person at our Member Service office located at 928 Hancock RD in Bullhead City 7am – 6pm, Monday – Thursday.

Aside from the assistance a member can receive from MEC, Mohave Electric Cooperative is a partner of the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, who also holds endless amounts of knowledge, tips, and tricks for our members to take advantage of when working towards a more efficient home.

Touchstone Energy offers knowledge with efficiency, technology, safety and an array of articles to assist members with renovation techniques.

To learn more and take advantage of the cooperative partnership, follow the link https://www.touchstoneenergy.com/efficiency to gain new skills on how to save energy.

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Completing your own Home Energy Review:

Use this list and check each area of your home to see if you’re using energy efficiently. Every nook and cranny holds potential inefficiencies, so it pays to be thorough! Visit the Departement of Energy website for more information on what’s listed below.

Insulation and Ductwork

Attic

• Insulation spread evenly
• Insulation in good condition
• Attic vents are unblocked by insulation
• Attic access doors properly insulated and sealed

Walls and Doors

• Minimum R-value* of 19 for perimeter walls
• Minimum R-value* of 25 for under-floor insulation

*R-Value indicates an insulation’s resistance to heat flow (the higher the better). Insulation should meet R-values recommended for your specific climate.

Basement

• Ductwork insulated and sealed
• Hot water pipes insulated
• Water heater insulated, if in unconditioned space

Heating and Cooling

• Air supply vents are unblocked by furniture or curtains
• Return air registers are unblocked by furniture
• Return air handler filters are clean
• HVAC system has had annual maintenance check-up
• Programmable thermostat installed and programmed

Air Infiltration

Windows and Doors

• Windows close and lock properly
• Window gaskets in good condition
• Window trim sealed and painted
• Doors properly weather-stripped
• Doors close and latch properly

Exterior Penetrations

• Plumbing and wire openings sealed
  • Kitchen cabinets
  • Bathroom cabinets
  • Utility room
• Fireplace damper sealed tightly

Appliances and Lighting

• Refrigerator condenser coils clean
• Refrigerator door gasket tight
• Unused refrigerators and freezers unplugged
• Water heater set to 120 degrees or below
• Dishwasher energy-saving feature turned on
• Washing machine loads run with cold water when possible

Well Pump

• Operating properly
• Good pressure
• No leaks

Lighting

• LED bulbs used
• Outdoor lighting automatically triggered by motion or dark

Source: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association