Jack

So You're looking to

SAVE MONEY

on your power bill?

Well, you’re in the right spot. It’s me, Jack, the spokesplug for Virginia Energy Sense. I can tell you a thing or two about saving energy so that you can also save a few bucks on your bill. Who doesn’t love a win-win, am I right?

I'm a HomeOwner Renter Property Manager

The Program

About Value Your Power

Virginia Energy Sense’s Value Your Power program, funded by the State Corporation Commission (SCC), offers practical energy-saving tips and helpful resources that Virginians can use at home, work, and school to reduce energy consumption.

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The Owner

Homeowner

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the neighborhood or have been around the block a few times—you want to save some cash on your power bill, both now and in the long run. Here are some tips to help you get started.
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What are you waiting for?

Here’s what you can do right now to save money.
  • Adjust your thermostat: Keep the temperature set to 68℉ in the winter, 78℉ in the summer.
  • Unplug electronics when you aren’t using them. They’re just zapping your energy and your wallet!
  • Wash clothes in cold water to keep your costs cool, too.
  • Air dry your laundry to avoid energy used by your dryer.
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Some things take time.

Here’s how you can start planning ahead.
  • Consider a programmable thermostat—it will help automate your home temperature.
  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork using caulk and weatherstrips.
  • Switch to energy-efficient appliances. Look for appliances with ENERGY STAR ratings!
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which use far less energy and last longer, too.
  • Lean on Mother Nature! Planting trees or shade-providing plants can help keep your home cool.
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The Life of the Party

Renter

I get it, things might feel out of your control as a renter—the landscaping, the major appliances, even the room paint color. But hey, what’s the one thing you DO control? Your energy use! Keep those usage numbers low for a lower power bill month-to-month. Here’s how.
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Take control

Start saving on your monthly power bill. Now.
  • Adjust your thermostat: Keep the temperature set to 68℉ in the winter, 78℉ in the summer.
  • Unplug electronics when you aren’t using them. They’re just zapping your energy and your wallet!
  • Wash clothes in cold water to keep your costs cool, too.
  • Air dry your laundry to avoid energy used by your dryer.
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which use far less energy and last longer, too.
  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork using easy-to-remove weatherstrips.
  • Energy-efficient appliances don’t just include the big guys like refrigerators or dishwashers! That new toaster you’re considering? Look for the ENERGY STAR rating to save every time you pop in a piece of toast.
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The Boss

Property Manager

You’ve got a lot on your plate as a property manager. From repairs to rental agreements, you’re always on the move, and it can be challenging to stay proactive. But trust me, strategic energy upgrades and initiatives can help you save big bucks in the long run! Let’s talk how.
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Ready to invest?

Strategic upgrades can save you big bucks in the long run.
  • Switch to energy-efficient. Look for appliances with ENERGY STAR ratings.
  • Consider programmable thermostats—they give a sleek and modern feel AND help automate home temperature.
Learn more

Pass on the savings.

Here’s how your residents can help.
  • Adjust the thermostat: Keep the temperature set to 68℉ in the winter, 78℉ in the summer.
  • Unplug electronics when not in use. They’re just zapping energy and money!
  • Wash clothes in cold water to keep costs cool, too. Air dry laundry to avoid dryer energy use.
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which use far less energy and last longer, too.
  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork using easy-to-remove weatherstrips.
Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it isn’t just you—I get these questions all the time. So I had a spark of genius and figured, why not make it easy and put them all in one place? Kick your energy savings up a watt; check out the FAQs below.

Heating

How can I conserve energy (and save money) during the winter months?

There’s so much you can do starting right now, including: lowering your thermostat when you're away; closing curtains to block cold drafts; closing doors to unused rooms; using space heaters only in specific rooms; using energy-efficient appliances; layering your clothing to stay warm without turning up the heat.

What is the most efficient thermostat setting for heating?

Don’t get stuck on a temperature roller coaster! Stick to a steady setting—we recommend 68℉ in the winter. Every degree you lower it can save you up to 5% on your energy bill, so cozy up and save some cash.

I use my fireplace to help heat my home, but my power bill is still high. Why?

Fireplaces are kind of like money pits when it comes to heating your home. They suck all the warm air out and up the chimney. If you do have a fireplace you want to use, try adding glass doors to help keep the heat inside.

What are some signs of poor insulation in my home?

If you're experiencing cold drafts, uneven heating, or sky-high energy bills, your home's insulation might be to blame. Use a smoke test or a thermal imaging camera to locate air leaks. Caulk, weatherstripping, and insulation can be used to seal these leaks.

Should I remove my window air conditioning units during the winter months?

Window AC units can be energy vampires, sucking your wallet dry. Either kick them out once the weather starts to turn, or seal them up tight. If you can't do either, there are special covers and plastic sheeting that can help.

Cooling

How can I conserve energy (and save money) during the summer months?

Keep things cool all summer long by trying some of these tips: close your shades and curtains; use ceiling fans; avoid using your oven on hot days; and keep the area around your air conditioner vents to the outside clear to ensure the best possible ventilation.

What is the most efficient thermostat setting for air conditioning?

Do your wallet a favor and turn up the thermostat in the summer—we recommend 78℉. Every degree you raise it can save you some cash on your energy bill, up to 5% per degree! 

We will be out of town for a few days on summer vacation—what temperature should I set my air conditioning to?

Think about bumping the setting up to 80℉ when you aren’t at home in the summer. After all, you’ll be off enjoying the cool ocean breeze or frosty poolside drinks—no need to keep your A/C working overtime when you’re away, right?

One room in my house is always hotter in the summer. What can I do to keep it cooler?

Before you crank the A/C, take a look around your space. If there are lots of windows, especially ones that get direct sunlight, close the curtains or blinds during the day. If that doesn’t help, there could be a problem with your air ducts. It might be worth asking your HVAC team to take a look.

Will ceiling fans help cool my home? Should I keep them running all the time?

Ceiling fans: The ultimate “cool” hack, right? They make the air feel cooler by creating a breeze, but let’s not kid ourselves—they’re not a magical temperature-lowering device. Be sure to save energy and turn them off when you’re not around.

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