It makes sense to revamp your home’s energy strategy come daylight savings time, as this policy was created to maximize energy savings in the first place.
While “when is daylight savings time” may be the most popular question people ask, the basic idea of it stretches back thousands of years. Our modern variation can be attributed to World War I, when it was introduced as a method of saving coal during wartime. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 signed into law by President Bush solidified our current schedule.
Most of the U.S. lost an hour of sleep beginning at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday of March, which translates to an extra hour of sunlight, and hopefully less energy expenditure. Standard time will return on the first Sunday of November.
Until then, there’s plenty more you can do to save energy, help the environment and reduce your bills.
Hybrid systems for cleaner, greener power
SMO Energy can provide residents of Maryland hybrid systems, which combine the advantages of heat pumps with propane or fuel oil. Thanks to the benefits of heat pumps – which include reducing heating bills by as much as 40 percent and improving air quality – you can enjoy a comfortable home temperature while reducing your propane or fuel oil consumption.
SMO also specializes in providing energy efficient equipment. If it’s time for an upgrade in your household, our equipment will help you reduce your environmental impact and save money on fuel consumption costs.
Even if you’re not ready to switch to a hybrid system, spring provides the ideal opportunity to get your energy affairs in order
Following the frigid temperatures of winter and the heavy usage of your equipment, now is an excellent time to take care of any maintenance or repairs to ensure your system is ready to perform effectively next year.
According to the 2016 American Home Comfort Study, 32 percent of heating, ventilation and air conditioning purchases were made as emergency buys due to equipment breakdown. Avoid such a scenario by keeping your equipment well-maintained.
Also, consider replacing batteries for other pieces of important equipment in your home. While smoke and carbon monoxide alarms may not be a drain on your energy bill, a new season represents the perfect time to ensure these life-saving devices are functioning properly. If a replacement is in order, prices run for approximately $15 for basic smoke alarms and $35 for standard carbon monoxide detectors.
Daylight savings time has arrived. Use it to maximize your home’s energy efficiency and safety.
Visit www.smoenergy.com to learn more about energy-saving opportunities.