Achieving Home Energy Efficiency Can Be Easier Than You Think

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Leading Energy Provider Offers Important Spring Efficiency Tips for Homeowners

Stamford, CT – March 15, 2011  - After a brutal winter for much of the nation, spring finally seems to be around the corner.  For many homeowners this means a time to throw open the windows, sweep off the patio and turn to preparing their house and garden for warmer weather.

Whether homeowners are simply fixing up their house or perhaps preparing it to sell, one leading energy provider wants to encourage residents to factor energy efficiency into their spring home prep plans.

“Spring is the perfect time to take a good look at your home and ways to maximize your energy efficiency,” says Marjorie Kass, MXenergy Managing Director. “I think sometimes people avoid looking at their energy usage because they are afraid changes may be too costly or difficult.  The fact is there are easy, relatively inexpensive changes you can make which can have a real impact on your energy usage and utility bills.”

Top Home Efficiency Tips:

  1. Keep the Cool Air In (and the hot air out):  Caulk windows and doorframes to keep cool air from escaping. 
  2. Be Window Wise:  If you have single pane windows and can’t afford to replace them with a more energy efficient version - consider putting a solar film or solar shades on the outside of windows to cut your heat.  If replacing blinds in your home, choose honeycomb shades which will trap heat before it enters the room
  3. Check That Filter:  Replace your air conditioning filter regularly.  This will help your unit last longer and run more efficiently
  4. Rearrange Furniture:  Something as simple as moving furniture so it doesn’t block important ducts and vents can create more efficient air flow and save you energy
  5. Ditch Those Old Light Bulbs:  By now we all know that compact fluorescent bulbs are more energy efficient.  This is an easy, cost-effective move everyone can make which will definitely save money.  10 CFL bulbs can yield $400 in annual electricity savings
  6. Plant Some Trees:  When you begin landscaping, consider how placement of trees can help shade your home.  Trees or vegetation can help block the suns rays and protect in the winter against freezing winds
  7. Install A Programmable Thermostat:  These electronic models help save money and many power companies even offer special rates and discounts if you switch to their model

Kass says for people looking to make larger scale changes, consider replacing your refrigerator - one of the biggest energy guzzlers in your house.  Make sure you search for a new model with an Energy Star rating.  And of course, look to your windows and insulation.

“We all know a properly insulated home is one that is more energy efficient,” says Kass. “And now there are some remarkable new options on the market.  People can choose cellulose insulation which is made from recycled newspapers or some green building companies even offer insulation from recycled blue jeans, which have been shown to be much more efficient than fiberglass.”

Since its inception in 1999, MXenergy has demonstrated a true commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.  Recently achieving its third year of carbon neutrality, the company has continually worked with customers to reduce their environmental impact.

One way MXenergy demonstrates its environmental commitment is through MXTV, an On Demand cable channel created in 2010, designed to educate and inform viewers about energy efficiency, environmental innovations, and “green” companies and services.   Multiple programs on energy efficiency, green building and home energy audits can be found in the MXTV archive at http://mxenergy.com/mxenergytv-video-archive.html

 MXenergyTV, or MXTV for short, can be found on Cablevision iO Channel 654 in the Northeast United States. 

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About MXenergy

MXenergy is one of the fastest growing retail natural gas and electricity suppliers in North America, serving approximately 500,000 customers in 41 utility territories in the United States and Canada. For over 11 years, the company has provided millions of customers with a choice in how they purchase energy to run their homes and businesses.  Founded in 1999 to provide natural gas and electricity to consumers in deregulated energy markets, MXenergy helps residential customers and small business owners control their energy bills by providing both fixed and variable rate plans. MXenergy is committed to best practices in environmental conservation, supporting local communities through various outreach programs and is a member of the Chicago Climate Exchange.  For more information MXenergy please visit www.mxenergy.com.

CONTACTS:
Marjorie Kass (203) 356-1318 ext. 7801    
Managing Director        
mkass@mxenergy.com      

Laurel O'Connor (209) 782-7212
NorthStar Media Management LLC
laurel@northstarmediamanagement.com

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