Home Money Saver

BUYER’S GUIDE

 Save energy and money for your home

Home Money Saver

Clothes Washer Buyer’s Guide � When shopping for a clothes washer, make sure it is a rebate-qualifying ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2015 or 2016 model. Look for energy- and water-saving features like advanced controls (water temperature, load size, pre-soak cycles, etc.) and faster spin speeds. Look for the label

Go to the front

Most clothes washers must meet specific energy standards as outlined by the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy usage and efficiency are displayed on the yellow EnergyGuide labels. Visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website to learn more about the EnergyGuide label.

In general, front loading (horizontal-axis) clothes washers are much more efficient than conventional vertical-axis (usually top-loading) machines with agitators. This is because front-loading machines do not have to completely fill the tub with water.

Estimated yearly operating costs are shown for similar models, based on the national average rate for electricity. Look for models with the lowest operating costs.

The EnergyGuide sticker displayed is for illustrative purposes only. Actual stickers and values may vary.

Estimated annual energy consumption is based on typical use. Multiply this by your local rate to get an estimate of your actual operating cost.

Seek control Clothes washers with advanced controls can either sense load size and adjust water levels, or have various wash, rinse and presoak cycles that you can set for more precise energy management.

Embrace spinning Spinning moisture out of your clothes is much more efficient than drying them with heat. Improved spin speeds on new clothes washers allow you to either air-dry or use the dryer less, which saves energy and extends the life of your clothes.

Size matters Try to size the new clothes washer to fit your needs for the next seven to 10 years. Washing many loads in a model too small for your needs consumes more energy than washing fewer loads loads in a larger model. If you have a small model and occasionally need large capacity for comforters and bulky items, consider using a local laundromat.

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Home Money Saver Check your specs

Places to buy

When shopping for a new clothes washer, bring along measurements of your laundry room space, doorways and any other nearby appliances (such as a dryer) to ensure that your new machine will fit the space. Also consider noise levels. If you are installing machines close to sleeping areas or in an upstairs setting, look for units with vibrationreduction technology or with suspension.

To find out which models qualify for rebates and where to buy visit marketplace.pge. Remember to apply for your rebate online, or ask a store associate for a rebate application.

More ways to get smart about clothes washers WaterSense For laundry and cleaning, saving water is as important as saving electricity. Learn what you can do to make smart choices about the products you buy and the ways you use water in your home. For more information, visit the WaterSense website.

Associated rebates Water agency rebates You may be eligible for a combined rebate of up to $150 from PG&E and your local water agency. Visit the Water Energy Savings website to see if you qualify. ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2015 or 2016 Clothes Washer

$50

REBATE PER UNIT REBATE CODE: CWME

EnergyGuide When shopping for new appliances, make sure to look for the EnergyGuide label. It tells how much energy an appliance uses and makes it easier to compare the energy use of similar models. Visit the EnergyGuide website to find out how to use the label as you shop.

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Home Money Saver

Lighting Buyer’s Guide Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) use  about 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Look for  the PG&E sticker as your assurance of quality and performance. Find instant rebates Skip the paperwork and rebate applications. Look for the PG&E sticker to receive instant rebates when you purchase and install qualifying LED and CFL bulbs and fixtures. Visit the PG&E lighting retail  locator to find a local participating retailer.

Start saving today by replacing  incandescent and halogen bulbs Do not wait for your incandescent and halogen bulbs to burn out. Instead, install LED and CFL bulbs today to start saving energy and money.

Find your type There is an LED or CFL bulb to fit almost any light fixture with the same amount of brightness (expressed as lumens) and light color as the incandescent bulb you are replacing. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for an efficient replacement light:

1. Identify which light bulb goes into which fixture. Use the chart below to determine the most appropriate type of bulb for your fixture. Table/Floor Lamps

Pendant Fixtures

Ceiling Fixtures

Ceiling Fans

Wall Sconces

Recessed Cans

Track Lighting

Outdoor Covered

Outdoor Flood

LED A-shaped Covered CFL A-shaped Globe Candle Indoor Reflector Outdoor Reflector

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Home Money Saver 2. Determine how much light/brightness you want. Lumens are the measure of light/brightness. Use this chart to determine which ENERGY STAR® -qualified LED and CFL bulbs will provide the same amount of light/brightness as your current incandescent light bulbs. Focus on lumens, not watts, to ensure you get the right amount of light from the bulbs. Incandescent Bulbs (watts)

Minimum Light Output (lumens)

ENERGY STAR-Qualified Bulbs (watts)

40

450

9 to 13

60

800

13 to 15

75

1,100

18 to 25

100

1,600

23 to 30

150

2,600

30 to 52

Check your specs  Only LED and CFL bulbs marked “dimmable” will work with select dimmer switches. Refer to manufacturer packaging for compatible dimmers. Only LED and CFL bulbs marked “three-way” will work in three-way sockets. In addition, CFLs are not recommended for use with electronic controls such as photocells, motion sensors or timers.

Another bright idea: LED and CFL fixtures To save even more, consider replacing the entire light fixture with one designed exclusively for a LED or CFL bulb. Using these LED and CFL fixtures reduces the risk of the bulbs overheating and helps them last longer.

3. Decide which color will work best for your use.

Recycle used LEDs and CFLs 

LED and CFL light bulbs offer a range of light color. Light color is measured on the Kelvin (K) scale. Lower numbers mean the light appears yellowish, and higher numbers mean the light is whiter or bluer. The color of light may be indicated by “warm white,” “cool white,” “daylight,” etc.

To find your local recycling center, visit the California  Take-It-Back Partnership website, call 1-877-Earth911, or contact your local waste removal company.

Warm White, Soft White

Cool White, Neutral White

Standard color of incandescent bulbs

Good for kitchens and work spaces

2700K

3000K

3500K

4100K

Natural or Daylight (like blue sky at noon) Good for reading

5000K

6500K

4. Consider LEDs LED lighting is a rapidly evolving technology which offers many advantages over traditional light sources. While the first cost of LEDs is more expensive than incandescent and CFL bulbs, the dramatically longer life expectancy and lower maintenance cost make LEDs a great option for frequently used areas in your home, like the kitchen and living room.

CFLs do not belong in your household garbage and should be disposed of properly at your local recycling center or participating hardware store.

Please dispose of LEDs with e-waste.

More ways to get smart about   home lighting Get the facts about LEDs and learn how they are different from incandescent and fluorescent lighting. Visit the ENERGY STAR website. Be aware that not all LED products are created equal. They vary in light quality, energy use and length of life. Because this is a developing technology, do your research before purchasing and look for the PG&E sticker at your local retailer to make sure you get the best price on high-quality lighting.

Places to buy Visit the PG&E lighting retail locator to find a local participating retailer.

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Home Money Saver

Central Air Conditioning   Buyer’s Guide You can keep cool and still save money when you follow these steps for  choosing, installing and maintaining the right energy-efficient central air  conditioning (AC) system for your home. Reduce your cooling load Lower your home’s cooling load by implementing measures, such as installing exterior window shading and adding attic insulation prior to retrofitting or replacing your central air conditioning system.

Work with a licensed HVAC contractor If you decide to install a completely new central air conditioning system, PG&E highly recommends that you work with a licensed heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor. Hiring a licensed HVAC contractor increases the likelihood that your new system will be installed properly. To find a licensed HVAC contractor in your area, call the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) or go to the CSLB website.

Seek higher SEER and EER ratings Central air conditioning efficiency is measured by a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating and an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating. Select an ENERGY STAR®-qualified system. These systems have a SEER rating of 14 or higher and an EER rating of 11 or higher. For split systems (usually paired with central natural gas furnaces), look for a 14.5 or higher SEER rating and a 12 or higher EER rating.

Make sure your contractor gets permits Be sure each estimate states that the contractor will be responsible for obtaining the required permitting from your local building department.

Install carbon monoxide   and smoke detectors Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, along with smoke detectors, are required by the Office of the State   Fire Marshal. Be sure to include these devices in your project.

Size matters Get the right-sized air conditioning system. A bigger system is not necessarily better, as it requires larger ductwork, will short cycle (causing undue wear and tear on the equipment) and will not have adequate run times to provide uniform comfort in your home. A rightsized system running for an extended period is more energy efficient and effective at maintaining comfort. Make sure your contractor follows California’s Building  Energy Efficiency Standards (also known as Title 24) and, when required, completes the required cooling load calculations according to Air Conditioning  Contractors of America (ACCA) guidelines so that you get the right-sized system.

Get multiple bids and permit(s) Get bids for the installation of qualifying equipment, and ask for customer references, in writing, from at least three contractors. For your protection, be sure each bid states that the contractor will be responsible for getting the required permitting from your local building department. For additional guidelines on how to select a licensed contractor, go to the CSLB website or call 1-800-321-CSLB (2752).

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Home Money Saver Consider PG&E’s AC Quality Care   Rebates Program Before investing in new cooling equipment, consider taking advantage of the AC Quality Care Rebates  Program. The inventory and assessment done on your HVAC system will help identify what needs to be done and whether the system needs to be replaced. This program could help improve the efficiency of your current AC system and even prolong its life. In addition, you will be eligible for rebates when you have qualifying services done by AC Quality Care participating contractors.

• $75 rebate on an initial Full ACCA Standard 4 HVAC System Assessment, which provides you with a comprehensive evaluation of your system, so you can work with your contractor on next steps. Following this assessment, you may qualify for the rebates listed below. • $50 Refrigerant Charge Adjustment • $50 Efficient Fan Delay Rebate • $300 Replacement Blower Motor Rebate • $500 Airflow Correction Rebate • $50 One-Year Quality Maintenance Agreement Rebate (You must complete Refrigerant Charge Adjustment OR Efficient Fan Delay OR Replacement Blower Motor OR Airflow Correction.) • $100 Comprehensive Kicker (This is available with the One-Year Quality Maintenance Agreement and completion of two (2) Energy Savings Measures. Measures include Refrigerant Charge Adjustment, Efficient Fan Delay, Replacement Blower Motor, or Airflow Correction.)

Follow industry-standard   installation specs Require your contractor to install your system according to ACCA Standard 5 HVAC Quality   Installation Specification to ensure it performs at the highest efficiency levels.

Maintain your existing central AC unit  A properly maintained HVAC system is more effective at helping you manage costs and indoor comfort. In addition, quality care and maintenance of your current AC system can help achieve efficiency and potentially prolong its life span.

More ways to get smart about   your cooling system Use ceiling fans Add ceiling fans in spaces that you often use on hot days. They can be attractive and effective in providing a cool breeze. As a result, you can raise the thermostat 4 degrees Fahrenheit with no reduction in comfort. Remember, fans do not cool rooms—they cool people and pets. So operate fans only when rooms are occupied.

Ventilate to start the day cool Open windows and doors to get “free” cooling in the evening when it is cooler outside (about 5 degrees Fahrenheit or more). A whole house fan can move cool air in large quantities when there is not enough breeze. Your house may gradually warm up during the day, but it may not get hot enough to need cooling, as long as you block direct sunlight with effective window coverings. Also, close windows and doors before the outdoor temperature rises.

Minimize heat-producing activities On hot days, try to minimize heat-producing activities, such as cooking and baking, as well as running appliances like a dishwasher or clothes dryer.

For more information about the   AC Quality Care Rebates Program,  visit pge.com/acqualitycare or   call 1-510-306-ACQC (2272).

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Home Money Saver

Water Heater Buyer’s Guide New water heaters use significantly less energy than units from just   10 years ago. Here is what to look for when shopping for an energy-efficient  water heater that can also earn you a rebate. Do your homework now

Seek higher EF and earn a rebate

Do your research now so that when your current water heater fails, you will know which energy-efficient model to buy and where to get it. This avoids the rush to purchase a unit based only on its price tag.

Water heater efficiency is reported in terms of its energy factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more efficient the water heater. Natural gas tank water heaters that qualify for PG&E rebates offer EFs at 0.67 and above. Electric heat pump water heaters with EFs of 2.0 and above qualify for PG&E rebates. Visit pge.com/WaterHeaterList for qualifying models.

Look for the label Most water heater units must meet specific energy standards as outlined by the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy usage and efficiency are displayed on the yellow EnergyGuide labels. This label also displays the ENERGY STAR® logo for qualified models. Go to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website to learn more about the EnergyGuide label. Estimated yearly  operating costs  are shown  for similar  models, based  on the national  average rate  for electricity.  Look for models  with the lowest  operating costs.

The EnergyGuide sticker displayed is for  illustrative purposes only. Actual stickers   and values may vary.

Estimated  annual energy  consumption   is based on   typical use.  Multiply this   by your local  rate to get an  estimate of  your actual  operating cost.

Size matters When evaluating new models, look at the first-hour rating on the EnergyGuide label to see how much hot water the model can deliver during your household’s peak demand hour. You may decide to buy a larger capacity unit or one with a higher first-hour rating.

Seek electric ignition Electronic ignition in a natural gas water heater saves energy and eliminates the nuisance of pilot outage issues associated with standing (or “always on”) pilot models.

Insulate your pipes  Insulating your hot water pipes helps to reduce heat loss and raises water temperatures 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit more than uninsulated pipes. Plus, you will not have to wait as long for hot water when you turn on a faucet or showerhead, which helps to conserve water.

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Home Money Saver Know your type The most energy-efficient water heaters are usually the most costly. However, they often pay for the additional cost in energy savings and help you save even more during the unit’s 10- to 15-year lifespan. NATURAL GAS WATER HEATERS TYPE

ENERGY FACTOR (EF)

Storage Tank

0.67

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Periodic water  heater maintenance  can significantly  extend your water  heater’s life and  minimize loss of  efficiency.

ELECTRIC HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS Storage Tank

2.0

More ways to get smart about   water heaters Calculate what you will save by replacing your water heater with an energy-efficient model. Go to the EnergyGuide website.

Places to buy Go to the ENERGY STAR® store locator to find a local retailer. Remember to apply for your rebate online, or ask a store associate for a rebate application.

Associated rebates ENERGY STAR Electric Heat Pump Water Heater

ENERGY STAR High-Efficiency Gas Storage Water Heater

When installing your  new electric storage  tank, also install  bottom boards or  rigid insulation to  prevent heat loss  through the floor. Periodic water heater  maintenance can  significantly extend  your water heater’s  life and minimize loss  of efficiency.

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Home Money Saver

Pool Pump Buyer’s Guide Pool pumps and motors can be the largest consumers of outdoor electricity.  Here is what to look for when shopping for an energy-efficient, variablespeed pump or motor that can also earn you a rebate from PG&E. Work with a licensed contractor

Smooth out the flow

Because selecting and installing a pool pump or motor is not a simple do-it-yourself project, PG&E highly recommends that you work with a licensed pool professional. To find a licensed pool professional in your area, call the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) or go to the CSLB website.

Design the pump’s or motor’s piping to reduce hydraulic resistance by replacing 90 degree angles with either 45 degree or “sweeping” 90 degree fittings, and by increasing, wherever possible, the size of the pipes. This makes the water flow more efficient, and, when combined with using a large filter (rated to at least 50 percent higher than the pool’s design flow rate), decreases the pool circulation system’s hydraulic resistance. Therefore, it takes up to 40 percent less electricity to run your pump or motor.

Go for a variable-speed pump or motor PG&E strongly recommends that you exceed the minimum two-speed pump requirement set by California’s Title 20 energy-efficiency standards and buy a variable-speed pool pump or motor. Singleand two-speed pumps and motors do not offer the same flexibility and energy savings as a variable-speed pool pump or motor. Additionally, only variable-speed pumps and motors are eligible for PG&E rebates.

A variable-speed pool pump or motor allows you to customize the pump’s speed and timing to meet your pool’s filtration system needs. For a relatively small investment, you can reduce your pool pump’s or motor’s energy usage by 50 to 75 percent.

Seek control and get a rebate

Keep it clean

Programmable controllers help you to better match your variable-speed pool pump’s or motor’s flow to your pool’s needs. To qualify for a PG&E rebate, your new variable-speed pump or motor must be equipped with a programmable controller (either built-in or separate) that can:

Keep your intake grates clear of debris. Clogged drains require your new pump or motor to work harder, which uses more energy. Backwash your filter appropriately. Backwashing too frequently wastes water, while not backwashing wastes energy by requiring the pump or motor to work harder.

• Meet California’s Title 20 energy-efficiency standards • Operate the pump or motor on at least two speeds and switch speeds automatically • Default to the lowest speed after one normal cycle (24 hours), if temporary high-speed override capacity exists

Slow things down

Apply for your rebate To apply for your rebate on a qualifying variable-speed pool pump, go to the Variable-Speed Pool Pumps and  Motors Rebates website.

Associated rebates Variable-Speed Pool Filtration Pump or Motor REBATE CODE: P107 pump REBATE CODE: P108 motor

“PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation. ©2016 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. These offerings are funded by California utility customers and administered by PG&E under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. January 2016 CRS-0116-4966

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