Sawnee EMC unveils winter energy efficiency video

CUMMING - With this winter's prolonged and sometimes extreme cold in north Georgia and the resulting increase in heating costs, Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) recently published a two-minute "how to" video to help its members get focused on winter energy efficiency. <br /> <br /> The video was emailed to Sawnee members who have an email address on file with the cooperative, over 80,000 of them.<br /> <br /> "The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that on average, about 54% of a home's annual energy usage relates to their method of heating and cooling" states Blake House, Vice President of Members Services. "We are constantly reminding our members to use electricity wisely, especially in extreme weather, and to always be conscious of how much energy they are using each day", he adds.<br /> <br /> Sawnee suggests that its members set their thermostat to 68 degrees or lower in the winter, to keep their heating cost as low as possible. They also suggest that all HVAC systems be serviced annually by a professional, and that the HVAC filters be checked monthly, to make sure the system is operating at its peak efficiency. Finally, Sawnee recommends that the duct system be checked regularly for leaks, tears, and to ensure that the duct connections that have not come loose. <br /> <br /> One common mistake that energy experts encounter is when the homeowner's furniture and/or drapes are blocking the air flow from the vents, or when vents are closed off all together. All vents, both supply and return, should be left open and flowing, no matter where they are located.<br /> <br /> Finally, this winter is the perfect time to add extra insulation in the attic, especially if it has not been done in the last ten (10) years. It will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. Best of all, Sawnee EMC has a rebate of up to $200 for qualifying attic installation upgrades to help defray some of the cost. To learn more about these and many other energy saving strategies, contact Member Services at Sawnee EMC. <br /> <br /> Sawnee EMC also offers for its staff to come out to your home "free of charge" to give personalized energy suggestions tailored for your unique situation.<br /> <br /> The new "how to" energy video can be found at www.sawnee.com or by searching "Sawnee EMC Energy Efficiency" on YouTube. <br /> <br /> To learn more, visit www.sawnee.com or call the Customer Care Center at 770-887-2363.

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