Mark Leu

Energy efficiency is easy: Anybody can do it, anywhere. However, once you get past low- and no-cost solutions, “one-size-fits-all” information becomes scarce.

As we know from the frigid weather we experienced in early January, to the hot summer days we had last August, our climate zone varies. The changes in temperature and humidity levels dictate lots of things — how much fresh air (ventilation) your home requires, how much (and what type) of insulation is needed, and whether a geothermal or an air-source heat pump or a different type of heating and cooling system works best.

Because we are locally owned and operated, LaGrange County REMC can provide you targeted advice on meeting energy-efficiency goals not only suited for our weather, but also your residence.For example, LaGrange County REMC offers home energy audits free of charge to members, where our energy efficiency expert — we call him energy advisor — will consult with you over the phone and then make an appointment to inspect your home.

Our energy advisor’s name is Jake Taylor. He is certified through the Building Performance Institute (BPI) and has a wealth of knowledge and diagnostic tools he uses to assess the efficiency of your home. Taylor uses an infrared camera to determine where your home could use more insulation, a duct blaster to measure the efficiency of your ductwork as it transports conditioned air to various points in your home, and a blower door to test the number of air changes into your home and pinpoint areas of leakage for proper sealing.

Following the audit, Taylor will provide you with a report detailing recommendations on how to improve your home’s efficiency. In addition, he can tell you about rebates LaGrange County REMC offers for heat pump water heaters and geothermal and air source heating and cooling equipment. You may also find out more about building an efficient Touchstone Energy® Home or about our Co-op Solar Program.

No matter rain or shine, cold or heat, LaGrange County REMC stands ready to help you keep electric bills affordable and live comfortably in your home. Give us a call at 877-463-7165.

MARK LEU
CEO

A tip from Energy Advisor Jake Taylor: When temperatures are at/below freezing, electric bills will be higher due to increased demand for heat. While space heaters help keep areas in your home comfortable, please remember that a space heater that runs continuously to help heat your home will add a significant amount to your electric bill. –Jake