Change Ceiling Fan Rotation. Save Dollars

October 1, 2009 · Filed Under Save Dollars · Comment 

cieling fan energyIn the summer, use the ceiling fan in the counter-clockwise (Forward) direction. While standing directly under the ceiling fan you should feel a cool breeze. This will circulate the cool air throughout the room to ensure your comfort.

In the winter, reverse the motor and operate the ceiling fan at low speed in the clockwise(Reverse) direction. This produces a gentle updraft, which forces warm air near the ceiling down into the occupied space. You can save lots of money on your heating bill when you reverse the ceiling fan direction in the winter.

Remember to adjust your thermostat when using your ceiling fan. In summer set the thermostat temperature from 84 to 80F and with Ceiling turned on, room temperature will be around 79 – 75F.

During Winter, set the thermostat to 67 to 69F and Ceiling Fan, it should feel like 70 to 72F.

Image Credit – ukmari

Join EnergyWise. Save $25 on Progress Energy Bill

September 24, 2009 · Filed Under Personal Finance · 1 Comment 

Yesterday I received an email from Progress Energy with Subject “Get $25 from Progress Energy. Join EnergyWise today”. So, I decided to checkout the deal.

Energy Wise Progress Energy

What is EnergyWise?

EnergyWise is a new, voluntary residential program created to temporarily reduce power consumption during periods of peak energy demand. It was designed based on similar successful programs that have been used in other parts of the country for many years, but the local program has been customized for the energy usage patterns in our area.

Won’t it impact my comfort?

Energy Wise is designed to cycle the air conditioner’s compressor off and on at 10-15 minute intervals, not to turn it completely off.  Your system’s fan will continue to operate normally.

For your convenience, EnergyWise will not be activated on weekends or holidays, except in the event of a system emergency. PLUS, you may choose up to two days per summer season to override the cycling of your air conditioner.

Click here to read FAQ’s

Florida Customers Save upto $145

In FAQ ( highlighted above) said they have used in other parts of the country. So, I searched to get more details on Florida where ProgressEnergy operates. Looks like customers in Florida can get upto $145 credit for using EnergyWise.

So, I was wondering why NC customers can receive ONLY $25 credit, where as Florida customers can receive upto $145?

Other States in US

Progress Energy operates in Florida and North Carolina. Utilities providers in your area might have similar program, that can save lot of money. Check out the with your Electricity provider to see if they offer similar saving options and consider enrolling in the program.

If the credit were $50+ I will not be having a debate to enroll, but for $25 I’m still considering my if its worth.