Spring is just around the corner, which means ’tis the season for landscaping and home improvement projects. As you break out your tools this year, ECI REC invites you to consider going electric!
Electricity is a cheaper, greener, and smarter way to meet energy needs. That’s why many consumers are switching from traditional gas-powered tools and appliances to electric. This trend is called “beneficial electrification.”
Here are two beneficial electrification ideas to consider this spring.
Invest in an electric lawn mower
Electric mowers have come a long way in the last few years. Early models required corded connections, which were tricky to manage—but the cord has been cut. Newer cordless electric mowers are more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts; they typically range from $200 to $500. But much of the upfront cost can be recovered, since electricity is a less expensive fuel than gas. Electric engines are also quieter and generally require less maintenance than gas engines.
Electric mowers are suitable for most lawn care needs, with batteries that typically require only an hour or two to fully charge. Most batteries can run for a full hour. That said, if you have a big yard (half an acre or larger), a gas-powered option may still best suit your needs.
Install an electric water heater
Electric water heaters are safer than propane (gas) heaters. They require no venting or gas line, and they offer no CO2 concerns. They’re also low-maintenance and require zero clearance to install.
Importantly, electric water heaters are both affordable and energy efficient. It will cost a family of four about $40 per month to operate an energy-efficient 50-gallon electric water heater. Remember that electric rates are considerably more stable than gas; ECI REC’s price per kilowatt-hour has increased 4.6% (less than a half a cent) over the past 10 years.
Members who buy a new, energy-efficient electric water heater are eligible to receive a $75 rebate. You can receive a $650 rebate for purchasing a heat pump water heater.
Questions about electric lawn mowers, water heaters, or beneficial electrification? Call 877-850-4343 and let us help! As a member-owned cooperative, we work for you, offering friendly, local, reliable, no-cost help with all your energy-efficient household decisions.
Photo credit: Sjankauskas | Dreamstime.com