Air Conditioner Load Controllers Save MEGA $$$ On Your Phoenix AZ Electrical Bill!
What is a load controller?
A load controller is an outdoor mounted computer that measures your power usage and controls peak demand by load shedding. Loads (A/C, Dryer, Water Heater), are not allowed to run at the same time which causes high demand charges.
Load controllers work in conjunction with electrical rates that have a demand charge. Since the demand charge on most energy bills can be as much as the consumption, controlling demand significantly reduces your electric bill. Think of it as a cruise control for your APS bill. You set it where you want it. The lower you set it, the more you save.
Want to learn more about how you can save $$$ on your electric bill using a load controller? Call 602-745-8375
When should you consider buying and using a load controller?
Load controllers should only be used if you are on the Combined Advantage Rate Plan. They are the best way to limit the demand portion of the bill, however they are expensive and there are other methods of limiting demand. For example:
Timers on water heaters and pools will prevent them from running during on-peak hours and are effective on the Combined Advantage 9 p.m. - 9 a.m. Rate Plan.
Electrical interlocks that prevent more than one air conditioner from running at the same time can be effective.
Programmable thermostats that can be set to increase the temperature in the home during on-peak hours.
The majority of savings that sales people attribute to load controllers is due to the design of the Service Rate Plans, and can be achieved without energy management devices. However, load controllers and other devices take the "human" factor out, and help to assure the customer will not receive a high bill due to a lapse in attention to energy management.
All these devices require some limitation in lifestyle. Hot water may not be available at all times, room temperatures may not be quite as comfortable at times, etc. You should understand these limitations and be willing to accept them before installing load controllers or any energy management device.
For more information, contact (602) 745-8375.
More Anthem AZ Energy Saving Tips
Set the thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature and dress appropriately.
When leaving your home for a few hours or going to bed at night, raise the thermostat a few degrees.
#1. Programmable thermostats that do this automatically. Call 602-745-8375 for installation.
Keep lamps, TVs and other heat-generating appliances away from the thermostat. Minimize their use on especially hot days.
Complement your air conditioner by using fans.
#1. Ceiling fans, in particular, can greatly increase air circulation and comfort.
#2. While a fan does use electricity, it uses much less than an air conditioner.
#3. Do NOT run your fans while away from home. A fan does not offer additional cooling benefits just additional comfort benefits.
Older air conditioners and those that are not maintained may run less efficiently, waste more energy and cost you more money.
For proper maintenance:
#1. Change the filter regularly
#2. Keep vents clean
#3. Avoid blocking the intake vents
#4. Dust the thermostat regularly
#5. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines
#6. Make sure ducts are properly sealed