Senior Spotlight: Powering Through Energy Savings

March is here… and as our heaters are about to get less use, our air conditioners are about to engage for the season! AARP recently addressed the impact of high demand and low supply of oil and natural gas: soaring prices! Below we are sharing 3 out of their 5 tips to help you lower your personal costs and have also added a few resources to help you explore some assistance programs if you (or someone you know) is in need. We understand that high energy bills can be stressful for everyone, especially seniors who are on fixed incomes and concerned if their savings is enough to sustain their cost of living.

LOWER CONSUMPTION

Energy Star states that you can save 10% on energy costs by lowering the heating temperature of your home by ten degrees. Other ways to reduce your usage are using the vacation setting on your water heater while you are traveling, shutting doors in unused rooms to conserve heat, maintaining heating & cooling units as recommended by the manufacturer and of course – turning off lights when you leave the room. Many utilities also offer higher rates during peak hours and lower rates during off-peak hours. So when you cannot adjust how much you use, see if you can adjust when you use.

WEATHERIZE

Most of our homes were built when energy efficiency was not at the top of the priority list. Virtually every home that is more than 10 years old has major room for improvement with regards to fixing leaks and gaps around windows and doors (typically by using caulk, weather stripping, etc.). In addition, under-insulated walls and attics can result in tremendous heat loss (as much as 30% according to Energy Star).

CONSIDER A SMART THERMOSTAT

Smart thermostats not only enable you to program home temperatures when you are home but are able to connect to the internet. This means adjustments can be made from your computer or better yet, a mobile app. You don’t have to be home to save energy at home! Many smart thermostats also come with AI (artificial intelligence) which learns your behaviors and adapts your home’s heating & cooling schedule accordingly.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Making energy efficient upgrades and paying high electric and gas bills is a challenge for many retirees. As such, we have compiled some support from the National Council On Aging, AARP and government programs that may be able to help.

*Unfortunately, seniors are a primary target for scammers. As you apply for any programs and hire professionals to make upgrades, always trust your gut, be wary of any large upfront payments and ask questions if something does not feel right.

Energy Assistance Benefits / NCOA

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program / State of California

Financial Assistance And Savings Tips / PG&E

Weatherization Assistance Program / US Department of Energy

Warmest regards,

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate
650.346.5352 cell
650.577.3127 efax
www.bobbidecker.com
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