Blue Ridge Energy Blog

Smart technology comes with the promise of convenience, energy savings, ease of installation and more. And although it's true that certain smart home devices can help you cut unnecessary energy use, what about smart technology as a whole? Can you really save energy by adding more electronic devices…

It's been a long, hard winter for your HVAC system. All that hard work keeping your indoor space comfortable, as well as weather-related wear and tear on outdoor components can really take its toll. Spring cleaning has long been an annual ritual in millions of households across the country. As the…

Some ideas are so widely held, they appear to bear little scrutiny or even a second thought. Although often factual, such common wisdom may be based on outdated or false information. Widespread misconceptions about energy use can increase utility bills and reduce comfort. Here are five energy myths…

Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…

Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…

Whether it’s playing your favorite music, turning off the light, closing the garage door or keeping your home secure, smart home devices make it easy to automate your life. However, there are also instances where they can help you save energy and money. Even if you’re not a tech-whiz, you may…

When air runs through your furnace, the air filter catches dust, hair and other particles in the air. Those particles stay in the filter, and the clean air passes through your fan and heat exchanger before going back into your home. Over time, more and more particles stick in the filter — making it…

Want More Tips & Other Helpful Resources? Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter for more money-saving ways to manage your energy use! Join The Mailing List

Considering the addition of gas logs to your home? Your first decision is whether to purchase a vented log set or one that is vent-free. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best choice for your space. Installation and Placement First, the location of your gas logs may be the deciding factor.…

A vacation is a great way to get away from it all. Did you know that your appliances and electronic devices can use a little time off as well? With a few simple adjustments before you leave, you'll come home to a lower energy bill. Water heater If you have a tank unit, your water heater will…

Mini-split heat pumps provide energy-efficient heating and cooling without ductwork. They're a cost-effective replacement for inefficient baseboard electric heating and window air conditioners in older homes and multifamily buildings. These systems are also a good choice where installing ductwork…

When selecting a new set of gas logs, one choice to consider is which type of burner would work best for you. Burners are installed in gas fireplaces to support the log set and power the flames. Some gas logs will only work with one type of burner, where others will have a variety. The different…