Published March 9, 2020 It’s been a pretty mild winter. We were a little hesitant to post this blog knowing there still could be snowstorms in our future! Such is spring in Minnesota. It’s a mix of weather, so our tips below reflect that. Concentrate on managing your thermostat (up or down) to manage your energy use…
When renting an apartment or home it is important to consider the utilities you need to pay for in addition to your rent. Here are some general tips to help you get prepared when your utility bill comes in. Find out what you are responsible for. Renters are often expected to sign up and pay…
The summer’s high humidity levels can affect not only the way you feel but also the condition of your home, and could potentially increase your energy bills. High humidity can increase moisture in your home, especially when dealing with unintended leaks that allow moisture or water vapor to move in and out of homes. This…
We’ve mentioned in previous blogs that winter usually brings the highest energy bills of the year to Minnesota households. For the households that heat their homes with electric heat, bills can be especially high, running in the hundreds of dollars each month. If your household has electric heat as a primary heating source, we encourage…
Every household is different and that means there is not a one size fits all when it comes to water heating. There are many different options to choose from when you are in the market for a new water heater. Determining the best fit for your household is an important consideration that can maximize efficiency…
Well, winter came early in some parts of the state. Most of us have probably already had our furnaces turned on for about a month now, so it’s definitely time make sure your furnace or boiler will be in good working order all winter long. Here are a few pointers to help ensure you are…
In the market for a new appliance? We know all the options can make your head spin. We put together a buying guide to help consumers in the market for a new appliance. In this mini-guide you can expect to find information on Energy Star and High Efficiency appliances, how Energy Star appliances save money,…
One of the many things new homeowners learn is the considerable impact improvements, maintenance and energy in your home can have on your budget. That is what Nikki Bentley and her husband Jeffrey discovered after they purchased their first home, a 1954 rambler, a few years back. Nikki and Jeffrey are environmentally-conscious and want to…
Xcel recently received approval to conduct a pilot program designed to reduce peak residential energy use through price incentives. The program has the potential to both save consumers money and reduce emissions from electricity generation. Why reduce peak energy use? On a typical weekday, many of us are away from our homes either at work…
Don’t really want to say it, but our summer is almost half over. We’ve had our share of hot steamy summer days with more expected. Luckily there are a lot of tips out there to help you keep your home cool and your energy bills manageable. We’ve assembled tips from state and federal agencies to…
