We’re finally starting to experience cooler weather in The Natural State, and winter will be here before we know it! Our average temperatures reached a 132-year high this summer, and we’re all looking forward to some badly needed respite this fall. The bad news is that home heating costs keep rising each winter, and utility providers have the absolute freedom to pass those costs on to their customers as they see fit. Fortunately, there are many easy ways to reduce your energy consumption without sacrificing your family’s comfort, and our team at Gary Houston Electric proudly offers in-home energy efficiency audits!

We’ve been providing trusted residential and commercial electrical service in Little Rock since 1978, and we love helping our customers lower their energy bills! Our energy efficiency experts can help you identify trouble areas in your home and offer specific recommendations; we can typically suggest several cost-effective solutions that can make a big difference, and we bill for all services according to standard labor schedules. Be sure to also ask us for a free, no-obligation estimate for a KOHLER emergency backup generator!

One of the most common problems that we encounter during energy efficiency audits are poorly sealed windows and doors. It’s easy to notice drafts in the wintertime when it gets really cold outside, and those drafts force your heating system to run longer to maintain your desired home temperature. The IRS currently offers tax credits for qualified energy-efficient improvements made to your home before 2032, including new insulation, windows, doors, and the cost of an energy-efficiency audit. And if the cost of upgrades exceeds your current budget, a few rolls of inexpensive adhesive weatherstripping can also make a big difference!

One of the most effective energy-saving investments you can make for your home is a programmable thermostat. It can help reduce your energy costs by up to 10%, as long as it’s programmed correctly and used consistently. We also strongly recommend a Smart thermostat with app-based connectivity. You can adjust your home temperature remotely, track your usage, and estimate your bills. Some smart thermostat models can even learn from your input and automatically adjust the temperature to match your preferences!

To learn more or schedule an energy efficiency audit, contact us online or at 501-375-8330.