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SRP Rate Hike: One Of The Worst Arizona Hikes

4/16/2024

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It happened again, the Salt River Project, better known as SRP, has increased their rates. SRP customers saw an increase in their November 2023 bills of around 8 percent. Although SRP customers are upset with the increase, SRP General Manager and CEO Mike Hummel states that "SRP remains committed to keeping rates low as we work to meet the growing energy needs of the Greater Phoenix area” (SRP).

The board of directors met in March of 2023 to go over these rates. This was an increase to an already approved rate hike. The SRP board then approved an increase in the fuel and purchased power adjustment mechanism, FPPAM. SRP explains how “FPPAM is the rate that SRP charges to recover the costs of fuel, including natural gas, and purchased power agreements used to maintain energy reliability” (SRP). According to SRP, these costs are passed through to customers without any markup. 

As SRP bills increase, so do residents' attention towards their energy usage. Here are a few ways that you can help lower your electricity bill. 
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​Switch Plans

Switching plans with SRP can save you money. Currently, there are seven different plans that SRP customers can choose from.
  • Basic Price Plan- This is the standard plan, and includes one price for energy no matter what time of day it is. The cost of energy only changes three times, with a lower winter rate, higher rate in July and August, and a happy medium in May, June, September and October. 
  • M-Power Plan- this plan allows you to pay in advance. This plan also includes the same rates each hour of the day, with standard increases in summer. 
  • Time of Use Plan- seemingly one of the most popular plans, this plan has on and off peak times during weekdays, where customers are supposed to limit their usage of major appliances (air conditioning, dishwasher, etc.).
  • EZ-3 Plan (3pm-6pm) & EZ-3 Plan (4pm-7pm)- these two plans allow customers to only limit their usage from either 3pm to 6pm or 4pm to 7pm. These rates are a bit higher than the time of use plan, but are popular for their flexible schedules. 
  • Electric Vehicle Plan- this plan allows a “super off peak” time for customers, allowing them to charge their car between 11pm and 5am for much less than other plans. 
  • Customer Generation Plan- This plan is for solar users, and boasts the lowest prices of all SRP plans. ​
For information on different types of plans, view our blogs. 

Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Although many people scoff at the simplicity, keeping your air conditioning filters clean is a must. A clogged filter can cause your air conditioner to run a lot harder, wearing it down over time and costing you more. Arizona's famous haboobs can do a number on your air conditioning filters, and will require you to change them more often. 
Regular maintenance is also important, as nobody wants to be woken up to a broken air conditioner. Here at Green ID, we complete a 22 point inspection to ensure that your air conditioner is running efficiently. With our maintenance special, you’ll receive 2 tune-ups per year, plus 20% off repairs and 10% off new units.

Replace Inefficient Appliances

Replacing inefficient appliances can help lower your electricity bill in the long run. We have made great strides in making energy efficient appliances affordable. For example, washers and dryers account for a lot of a home's energy usage- replacing them with Energy Star appliances can help cut down on those costs. In the heat of Arizona, drying your clothes outside may be a good option, too. 

Lighting

Lighting can make a huge difference when it comes to energy usage. We use our lights more than we realize, so switching to LED or other efficient bulbs can be a cost effective way to lower our electricity bills.

Energy Audits

An energy audit can help you find places in your home that are not energy efficient. Your home could have unsealed ducts, internal moisture, air leakage, draft leakage, and other issues that are costing you money each month. 
During an energy audit, one of our seasoned auditors will go through your home with infrared cameras and complete pressure tests, insulation evaluations, pool pump evaluations, and more. One energy audit checks all of the main efficiency issues. Afterwards, we will go over what you can do to increase your home's efficiency. 

Green ID Arizona

A small business here in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, we have been serving the Valley for over 10 years. We ensure that our customers' homes are as efficient as possible, and aim to save them as much as possible on their monthly bills. 
Don’t wait for another rate hike. Make sure your home is as efficient as possible today. 
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Which APS Plan Can Save You The Most?

4/16/2024

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APS, or Arizona Public Service, is the largest energy provider in Arizona, serving 11 out of 15 counties in the state. If you have APS, you definitely know it! There are three plans currently available for all APS users, including two time of use plans and one fixed rate plan. Depending on your household usage, simply switching to a different plan could save you money on your energy bill.  
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Arizona Air Conditioning!

Fixed Energy Plan​

This plan is just that, fixed. The time and day that you are using the energy does not matter, and you get the same rate year round. The rate that you pay is determined by the usage tier that is assigned to you, based on your average energy usage. The more energy that you use per month, the more you will pay per kWh. 
These are the three tiers, which you can see here on APS’s website. 
Tier 1: 600 kWh or less average monthly energy use – 11.298¢/kWh
Tier 2: 601-999 kWh average monthly energy use – 12.282¢/kWh
Tier 3: 1,000 kWh or more average monthly energy use – 13.478¢/kWh
This works best if you do not use that much energy, or have a smaller home. Overall, the time of use plans would likely save you more money, but restrict your energy usage more. 

Time-of-Use
​4pm-7pm Weekdays

This plan limits your energy usage for just three hours a day, and provides “super off peak” rates for winter and holidays. From 4pm-7pm, avoid using high energy appliances such as the laundry machine. 
This plan works best if you are able to use less energy during peak hours or have a larger home. For example, if you often do laundry and turn your heater/air conditioner on past seven, this plan could be right for you, and start saving money now. 

Time-of-Use 4pm-7pm
​Weekdays With Demand Charge

This plan also limits your energy usage for three hours a day, but includes staggering usage. Another difference in this plan is that there’s a demand charge for your highest hour of usage (during on-peak hours). This plan has the lowest energy rates for off-peak hours, and includes the “super off peak” hours in winter and lower off peak rates on weekends and holidays. 
This plan works best if you use a lot of energy and have a larger home. ​

For more information and updated plan information, go to APS’s website here.

Common Questions

Now that we understand the three main plans for APS, here are some common questions that customers may have. 

What Do I Do During On-Peak Hours?
During on-peak hours, you will want to avoid anything that takes up a lot of electricity, such as your washer and dryer, dishwasher, air conditioner, heater, water heater, and more. Remember, observed holidays are all off-peak days. 

What About Weekends?
Weekends are always the same rate, with no specific times to avoid. The time of use plans compared to the basic plan will give you lower rates for the weekends. In addition to this, both time of use plans include lower rates for holidays, which the basic plan does not. 

Are Prices Lower In Winter?
Yes. Prices are lower in the winter months for time of use plans, especially with the “super off peak” included from 10am to 3pm. Of course, basic plans are the same rate, unless you go up or down in tiers. 

How Can I Save Even More Money?
One of the biggest culprits of a high electric bill in Arizona is your air conditioner. At GreenID, we complete 22-point check ups to ensure that your air conditioner is working its best, saving you money. If your air conditioner is working overtime to cool your house, it could be costing you much more than necessary. 

In Arizona especially, an energy audit can ensure that your home isn’t letting in the heat of the summer. During the energy audit we will look for possible duct leakage, inspect your insulation, do a static pressure test, and more. There are plenty of reasons your energy bill could be higher, and a home energy audit can uncover ways to improve your efficiency year round.

Ready To Save?

We are Green ID, a local business that has served the Valley for over 10 years. Our experts are here for you to find energy inefficiencies and give you tips on how to make your home more efficient. Stop paying for leaks and poor air conditioning today. 
For more information or to book a home energy audit, please visit our website here. 
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APS Took A (Rate) Hike

4/16/2024

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Arizona Public Service, or APS, is well known for providing power to hundreds of thousands of Arizona residents, but a recent rate increase has people looking for new ways to save power. On February 20th, 2024, the Arizona Corporation Commission approved the rate case for APS.  This means that residential customers will be paying even more for their electricity. They are estimating that APS customers will pay approximately 8 percent more on their monthly bills effective March 1st, 2024. 
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APS High Energy Bill

Why Are They Raising The Rates?

APS notes that the rate hike will allow them to continue bringing reliable energy to the hundreds of thousands of residential and commercial properties that they are currently serving. APS stated that as Arizona continues to grow, they need to grow with it- which means expansion of infrastructure and services. 
​

What Can I Do?

As APS continues to increase their rates, and your APS bill becomes higher, it puts customers in an odd position. Unfortunately, there are limited options when dealing with providers such as SRP or APS. Customers with rooftop solar systems and other clean energy solutions pay less, but may still see the bills impact. 
When people see that their APS bill is higher, they tend to look for new ways to save money. Here are a couple of ways that you can save money on your APS bill, especially after the new bill increases.
Switch Plans
Switching plans with APS can save you money. Currently, there are three main rate plans for APS, which include one basic plan and two time of use plans. 

The basic plan is flat rate, even on holidays and weekends. This plan does not include any discounts, and what you pay is based on your tier. 

The time of use plans involve different prices for different times, both from 4pm to 7pm, where you limit your usage on large appliances. If you are able to manage your usage during these times it can save you money. 

For information on different types of plans, view our blog here. 

Lower Your Energy Usage
Most of us have already tried this, but being more cautious with your electricity use can save you money. This can include setting your thermostat higher, or being more cautious when running your water heater. 

Maintain Your Air Conditioner
It may sound silly, but ensuring that your air conditioner filter is clean is a must. This can cause air conditioners to work poorly, especially when one or two degrees seems to make the biggest difference (thanks, Arizona summers). Regular maintenance is also important. 
Here at Green ID, we complete a 22 point inspection to ensure that your air conditioner is running the best it can. We want your air conditioner to last as long as possible as nobody wants to wake up in the middle of the summer to a broken air conditioner. 

Keep Doors Open
It may sound counterproductive to keep all doors open, but it allows the air to properly flow throughout the home. With air conditioning being one of the most energy-using culprits here in Arizona, keeping the house cool instead of continuing to crank the air conditioner can save you money.
When all doors are closed, air is unable to flow throughout and bottles up into a room. If a door to your room tends to shut when the air conditioner turns on, or there are visible dust tracks, that is a sign that you need to keep the door at least cracked to circulate the air. 

Run Your Fan More
Again, this can sound counterproductive, but running your fan more could be a great solution to getting proper air into the home and keeping it that way. Running the fan helps circulate the air better, encouraging faster cooling and more even temperature distribution. We all seem to have that one room that gets hot (you know the one!), which makes us crank up the air conditioner- costing us more on our electricity bills. 

​Energy Audit: The Overall Fix

An energy audit can help you find spots in your home that are not energy efficient. For example, your home could have unsealed ducts, internal moisture, air leakage, draft leakage, and other things that are costing you money each month. 

An energy auditor will go through your home with infrared cameras and complete pressure tests, insulation evaluations, pool pump evaluations, and more. One energy audit checks all these, ensuring that your home is as energy efficient as possible. ​

About Us: Green ID Arizona

A small, local business here in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, we have been serving the Valley for over 10 years. We take pride in saving our customers money, and ensuring that their homes are as comfortable as possible. 
Don’t wait for another rate hike. Make sure that your home is keeping cold air in now. 
For more tips and tricks on how to beat the APS rate hike, check out our Youtube video here. ​
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Seven Money Saving SRP Plans

4/16/2024

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SRP- Salt River Project, provides water and power to hundreds of thousands of Arizona residents, specifically central Arizona. Although you cannot switch water/power providers, you can still configure your bill so that you save money each month. Lets go over the seven plans SRP currently offers and see how you can save money each month. 

All of this pricing is done using energy per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For example, a standard 40 inch television uses 0.14 kWh per hour, meaning that just over 7 hours of the television constantly running would equal one kWh. 
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Time of Use Plan

One of the most popular plans, this plan has on and off peak hours that affect the price that you are going to pay per kWh. The hours that are higher-cost are when people tend to use the most energy, whereas the lower-cost hours are when people are typically out and about. Lower cost hours for May to October are 8am to 2pm and 8pm to 2am, and higher cost hours are from 2pm to 8pm. From November to April, low cost hours are from 9am to 5pm and 9pm to 5am, and higher cost hours are 5am to 9pm and 5pm to 9pm.  

​EZ-3 Plan (3-6pm)

This plan is a bit more forgiving than the time of use plan. The EZ-3 plan allows you to only limit your energy use (year round) from 3pm to 6pm. This plan is a bit more expensive, as both on and off peak are a few cents more, for example, July/August when we are using our air conditioning the most, it is 10 cents more per kWh than the time of use plan.  

EZ-3 Plan (4-7pm)

Extremely similar to the EZ-3 Plan above, this plan involves limiting your usage from 4pm-7pm year round. This plan boasts the same prices as the EZ-3 3-6pm, but may work better for residents depending on their schedule. 

Electric Vehicle Plan

For EV drivers, this pricing plan allows a “super off peak” time for you to charge your vehicle between 11pm and 5am. This “super off peak” time means an average daily cost of 85 cents on the EV price plan, compared to 95 cents on the time of day plan or $1.36 on the basic plan. This still includes limiting your energy usage in both winter and summer. 

​Basic Price Plan

This is the standard plan. There is one price for energy, every hour including weekends, and every time throughout the different seasons. The only way that the price will rise is if you use over 2001 kWh in a summer month. These prices are higher than the time of use plan off peak, but lower than the time of use plan on peak. 

M-Power Plan

The M-Power plan allows you to pay in advance for as long as you would like. You could throw $500 in at the beginning of winter and not add money until you run out. There will be a meter installed on your home which will allow you to track how much energy you have used. This plan also has one price for energy no matter the day or time, only rising in the summer months. There are, however, one time deposits and service fees that you can see here on SRP’s website. 

Customer Generation Plan

This power plan is for solar users, and offers the lowest prices of any SRP plan. The off and on peak times are the same as the time of use plan, but are about half the price. This is definitely the best option for solar users. 
For more information on plans with SRP, please visit their website here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we have gone over the seven plans SRP offers, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions. 

What Do I Do During On-Peak Hours?
During on-peak hours, you will want to avoid anything that takes up a lot of electricity, such as your washer and dryer, dishwasher, air conditioner, heater, water heater, and more. Remember, observed holidays are all off-peak days
. 
Are Prices Lower In Winter?
Yes. In winter, we tend to use a much smaller amount of energy compared to summer days, which are peak demand for Arizona. For example, using the time of use plan, summer off peak is 9.06 cents whereas summer on peak is 22.70 in May/June/Sept/Oct and 25.86 cents in July/Aug. In winter, electricity is 8.85 cents off peak and 11.45 on peak. 

So, Which Plan Is Best For Me?
​Of course every family and situation is different. Of course if you have an EV or solar panels, those plans may be best for you. If you don’t want to be very constricted to specific times, the EZ-3 plan may be right for you compared to the time of use plan. Some people find comfort in the M-Plan due to the lack of a billing cycle. Luckily, SRP offers a 90 day guarantee for the time of use and EZ-3 plans, so you can try it risk-free for 3 months. The best SRP plans are the ones that work best for you. 

​What Else Can I Do To Save Money?

One of the main culprits of a high electric bill in Arizona is- you guessed it, the air conditioner. At GreenID, we provide 22-point check ups along with maintenance to ensure that your air conditioner is working its best.
​
In Arizona especially, an energy audit can make sure that your home isn’t letting out the cold air and letting in the hot air. During the energy audit we will inspect your insulation, look for possible duct leakage, complete a static pressure test, evaluate your water heater, and more. There are plenty of reasons your energy bill could be higher, and a home energy audit can discover ways to improve your efficiency year round. 

Ready To Save Even More

Green ID is a local business that has served the Valley for over 10 years. We take great pride in saving our customers money, and our experts can pinpoint where you are losing energy in your home.
​
For more information or to book a home energy audit, please visit our website here. 
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Is This The Reason Your AC Bill Is So High?

4/16/2024

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All around the world, but especially in Phoenix, Arizona- electricity bills can be a nuisance. It is almost necessary to run your air conditioner throughout the months of May-October, and the electricity costs rise with the temperature. In fact, the EPA estimates that you can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs by having well insulated attics and air sealing your home. Insulating your home can be a great investment- and there is now a tax credit that could make this possible for you. 
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Insulation Information

Insulation is the material that makes sure electricity, heat, etc. does not impact your home, tightly sealing your home's interior. Insulation is important because it can significantly improve or decrease the energy usage in your home. Having good insulation ensures that your home will be as comfortable as possible- keeping the cold air inside. Insulation is a great way to lower your monthly energy bills and conserve precious energy. 

Are You Missing The Signs of Low Insulation?

You may have low insulation if you notice these 3 major signs. 
​
Hot and Cold Rooms
You know, that one room. Uneven temperatures are never fun- and it can cause you to overrun your air conditioning or heating unit, costing even more money. This is a sign of low insulation, as it is allowing air to escape through the walls. Luckily, the federal tax credit will help you solve this problem and keep the air you are paying for inside! 
Drafts
Air leaks allow air to move inside your home and outside again, meaning your cold air could be leaking outside while the hot air is welcomed in. This is obviously an issue, and although the first culprit is windows or doors, it could be your insulation, too. 
High Energy Bills
Now, we know that poor insulation leads to hot or cold rooms, leaking air, drafts, etc. but this all leads to the high energy bills that you may be seeing each month. Even if you are not noticing any change in temperature, it could be time to check if your insulation is damaged or failing.

Types of Insulation 

There are many ways to insulate your home. Here are four insulation types that are popular here in Phoenix, Arizona: 
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper, and can be packed quite densely to protect your home from a draft airflow. 
Loose fill fiberglass insulation is what you may see spread out on the attic floor. This is an adaptable type of insulation material, and can be put in hard to reach places or under flooring. This type of fiberglass insulation is commonly used due to its ability to insulate spaces without affecting structures.
Fiberglass batts insulation are the blanket-like pieces of insulation that you often see in home shows or movies. These are common as they last for a long time and can help decrease the amount of sound that flows through. This is generally cost-effective and a good choice when building a home if the batts are fitted properly. 
Spray foam is a plastic, applied by spray, that has an 80 to 100 year life expectancy. This completely seals the building, and does not settle in like cellulose and fiberglass can. 
These attic and wall insulation materials along with rolls, rigid boards, and pour-in-place are all eligible for the tax credit. 

Tax Credits for Insulation

There are now tax credits available for energy-efficient updates that Americans make to their homes. This was put in place in order to lower the price of electricity while lowering the amount of demand. As Arizonians, we know to appreciate anything that can help with those summer time electricity bills!

If you are the owner of the main home and do not rent the property out to others, there is a good chance that you are qualified to receive the energy efficiency tax credit. 
You can claim 30% of the product cost, up to $1200 for any improvements such as windows, skylights, insulation, central air conditioning, etc. View more information here on Energy Stars website.
​

How To Claim

It is quite easy to claim the tax credits for energy efficient upgrades such as insulation. Simply fill out form 5695 and file it with your tax return. This has to be completed for the year that the insulation was actually installed, not just purchased. You can check out form 5695 for residential energy credits here. You can read the instructions for form 5695 here on the IRS website https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i5695.
​

Make Sure You Aren’t Losing Money

Not ready to purchase insulation yet? Make sure that you are getting the most out of your electricity bill. Call us today to schedule a home energy audit- a 14 step process where we inspect for duct leakage, insulation and air barriers, gas leakage tests, and more! Make sure that your home isn’t seeping your money. 
Ready for the next step? Call us to schedule your new insulation installation. Our small business has been in the valley for over 10 years, and we are highly rated. Check out our reviews on Google. 
Call us at 602-926-1650 or book online with us today!
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Duct Wars: Flex Ducts vs. Metal Ducts

4/16/2024

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Many people are unsure which type of ductwork will suit their home the best. Here in Arizona, our HVAC systems are crucial to our comfort, and we want to make sure that we are making the right choice when it comes to our air! We at Green ID created this guide to help you understand the differences between the two main competitors, flex ductwork and metal ductwork.
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Flex Versus Metal Ductwork

What Is Ductwork?

Ductwork is what connects the HVAC system in your house, providing heating, ventilation, and cooling to different parts of the home. The ductwork includes the main pipes that the air flows through. Flex ductwork is made out of both flexible inner lining and an outer insulation layer. On the other hand, metal ductwork is made of galvanized steel or other metals. 

Pros And Cons

Ductwork can get confusing- which is why we created a short pros and cons list to help you decide what is best for you. Of course, each and every home is different, and proper installation is necessary for both flex and metal ductwork to function at their best.

Pros for Flex Ductwork
  • Flex ductwork is generally cheaper to install- and quicker, than metal ductwork. 
  • The insulation in flex ducts helps absorb sound, making it quieter than metal ductwork.
  • Flex ductwork is great for renovations as it can be adapted to already existing structures- metal ductwork will need to be completely rearranged. 
Cons for Flex Ductwork
  • If the flex ductwork is not installed properly, it can kink or sag, which can restrict both airflow and efficiency. But, if flex ductwork is pulled tight with no kinks it’s almost the same performance as metal ductwork.
  • Long term, metal ductwork tends to last longer than flex ductwork, although flex ductwork can last over 20 years with proper installation. 
  • Flex ductwork is more susceptible to damage compared to metal ductwork. Tears and punctures are a possibility.
Overall, flex ductwork is cheaper and faster to install, is quieter than metal ductwork, and can be rearranged a lot easier than metal ductwork. If not installed correctly, the flex ductwork could kink or sag. The lifespan of flex ductwork is shorter than metal ductwork, but can be fixed easier. Flex ductwork is also more susceptible to damage due to the different materials.  

Pros for Metal Ductwork 
  • Metal ductwork has a longer lifespan than flex ductwork as it is much more durable- this also prevents punctures or tears unlike flex ductwork. 
  • Metal ductwork has better airflow compared to flex ductwork, as the interior is much smoother. 
  • Long term, the cost savings may be similar to flex ductwork as metal ductwork requires less maintenance.

Cons for Metal Ductwork 
  • Metal ducts are generally more expensive than flex ducts. This includes both the materials and the installation.
  • The installation will take longer than with flex ducts, as joints, seams, etc. will need to be properly sealed. 
  • Metal ducts are much noisier compared to flex ducts. 
Metal ductwork has a longer lifespan and is more durable than flex ductwork. Metal ductwork also has better airflow, and the savings may be similar within the longer lifespan of the metal ductwork. Metal ductwork materials and installation are more expensive than flex ductwork, and the installation will take longer. Metal ductwork is also noisier than flex ductwork. ​

The Big Question....

Of course, one of the main questions we receive regarding ductwork is “which is more affordable?”. Flex ductwork is more affordable than metal ductwork, including both installation and the actual materials. In the long run, it is possible that metal ductwork can cost less due to less maintenance required. 
Of course, the metal ductwork will also need to include an insulation wrap or a spray foam layer on top if it’s exposed. The cost to insulate 1,000 feet of ductwork comes out to around $2250. 
​

Which Works Best?

There are many diffe​rences between flex and metal ductwork, such as cost, noise, and efficiency. Especially where we are located, in Phoenix, Arizona, proper cooling and ventilation is necessary. If one room in your home is hotter than others, or your home is not properly cooling, ductwork may be your issue. 
As a small business here in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, we have been serving the Valley for over 10 years. We ensure that our customers' homes are as efficient as possible, and aim to save them as much as possible on their monthly bills. 
If you are contemplating new ductwork, please reach out to us at 602-926-1650 and we can help you make the right decision for your family.

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Heat Pump vs Furnace: Which is Right For You?

4/16/2024

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New builders in Arizona are required to have gas furnaces due to prior agreements with Southwest Gas, which got people thinking something they may have never thought before….. What's better, a heat pump or a furnace? We are here to explore the differences and see what may work best for you and your family.
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Heat Pump VS Furnace in AZ!

How Do They Work?

Heat pump, hot air, refrigerant, heat, heater, moderate climatesHeat Pump
Heat pumps take heat from outside air (even if it is cold out), and use refrigerant to absorb this heat. The refrigerant turns into a gas, and is then compressed to become extremely hot. This is released into the homes and repeated.  Since heat pumps do not generate their own heat, they are more energy efficient to operate. Heat pumps are more efficient in moderate climates like Phoenix instead of the extreme heat or cold. Unique to furnaces, heat pumps can produce both hot and cold air. 
furnace, heat, gas furnace, propane, hot air, fan, cool air, flame, combustion chamberFurnace
Gas furnaces run off of natural gas or propane to create heat. The furnace draws in air and creates a flame within the combustion chamber, which is ultimately transferred and a fan forces the air outside of the furnace and into the area you were looking to cool. Gas furnaces are less environmentally friendly than heat pumps but have lower initial costs. Gas furnaces also tend to be more efficient in colder climates as the heat it produces is especially hot, and not drawn from outside. Furnaces only produce hot air, there is no option for cool air like with a heat pump.

​What Does The Majority Say?

In all honesty, most homeowners don’t care if they have a gas furnace or heat pump. In Arizona, new builders are required to have gas furnaces with prior agreements with Southwest Gas. This is a perfectly good option, but there are many reasons why people may want to trade out their heat pump/furnace as each home and desired climate is different. 
  • If you go all electric, many homeowners end up changing from a furnace to a heat pump so that solar panels are able to cover it. This is a big consideration when looking to purchase a new heat pump or furnace. 
  • Of course, many families would like to be more environmentally conscious, making heat pumps a better option. This will save you money in the long run, but is more expensive initially. 
  • Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling- a great option for those in places like Casa Grande or Tucson, Arizona where the temperatures do not drop drastically. Of course, a furnace does not do this, so if you are looking to have it all in one you may want to stick with a heat pump. 
  • People may tend to stick to furnaces due to their reliability. Furnaces are effective in very cold temperatures, which is necessary for families who live in cold climates (not Phoenix, Arizona)! 
  • Furnaces also have very little noise compared to heat pumps, something that may be necessary in smaller or shared spaces. 
  • Many families are more comfortable with furnaces due to their traditional generational use, whereas others prefer the ease of a heat pump.​
Overall, the decision between a heat pump or furnace ends up to be what you are comfortable with and what you are looking to do with your home in the future. Homeowners should evaluate their specific needs in order to determine what is best for their families. 

Do Heat Pumps Work in Phoenix’s Climate?

Heat pumps work perfectly well in Phoenix, Arizona. This is because heat pumps are best suited for moderately cold winters, making it the perfect choice for Phoenix’s winter (at least compared to other places!).

What If I Do Want To Switch?

We’ve got this! To switch from a furnace to heat pump you need a dedicated electrical line to the furnace. Green ID can help- the heat pump or choirs 240V and we’ll sort out any other circuit that is shared. 
​
If you are looking to switch, call us at 602-926-1650 or visit our website GreenIntegratedDesign.com. We would be happy to help you figure out what works best for you and your family. 

Not sure yet? Call us to schedule an energy audit- we will let you know where your home is leaking air, and how you can save money on your electricity bill each month. See below what that entails. 

**Our energy audit includes a quick interview before we test how energy efficient your home is. This includes a Visual Inspection of the House, Combustion Safety and Gas Leakage Tests, Whole House Blower Door Test, Duct Leakage Test, Duct Design Evaluation, Infrared Camera Inspection, Utility Bill Analysis, Static Pressure Test, Pressure Test, Water Heating Evaluation, Insulation and Air Barrier Evaluation, Pool Pump Evaluation, and a Home Energy Report. 

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Do You Need To Remove Existing Insulation From Your Attic?

4/16/2024

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Many homeowners know the importance of insulation, and with the cost of electricity rising, more and more people are checking to ensure that their insulation is doing its job. Many people have been told that they would need to remove all existing insulation from their attic- an additional cost. Here at Green ID Arizona, we believe that homeowners should have all of the information that we do.
insulation, remove insulation, attic, existing insulation, new insulation, insulation has long lifespan
Do you have enough insulation in your home?

So, Do You Really Need To Remove Existing Insulation From The Attic Before You Blow New Insulation In?

Not necessarily. Most forms of insulation can last for decades when taken care of properly. Unless there are obvious signs of wet spots, mold, etc., then you do not need to remove the insulation. If there are signs such as wet spots or mold, the issue must be addressed before replacing the insulation anyways (otherwise it will just happen again!).  
Of course, if the insulation is in good condition, there is no need to remove it. Adding on an extra layer of insulation can help lower your energy bills each month. Unless your home was constructed with energy efficiency in mind, it is very likely that your home could benefit from added insulation. In fact, the EPA estimates that “homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces and basements” (EnergyStar). This adds up quickly, as you may imagine!

What Do I Really Need To Do?

Although you do not necessarily need to remove the insulation in your attic before you blow new insulation, you should air seal the attic before the new insulation is blown in. Air sealing is the process of identifying and sealing gaps, cracks, and openings in the attic space that allow air to leak in or out of them. This occurs especially around plumbing vents, electrical wiring, chimneys, etc. Think “close the door- we aren't trying to air condition the backyard!” but with your attic… you could actually be cooling the outside.

What Does Attic Air Sealing Do?

Attic air sealing overall creates a tight envelope around the attic (which ultimately leads to your living space) in order to improve energy efficiency and reduce your energy bill each month. Here are a few benefits of attic air sealing. 
  1. Prevents Energy Loss: Air leaks in the attic can allow hot air to enter during the summer and cold air to enter in the winter- driving up those energy bills. Especially in the 120 degree weather here in Arizona- this can make a huge difference. 
  2. Prevents Moisture: Air leaks can allow moisture to enter the attic, leading to additional issues like mold and mildew, wood rot, and insulation degradation (as we discussed before with insulation that would need to be replaced).
  3. Improves Comfort: Air sealing the attic allows you to maintain more constant temperatures throughout the home, something that a lot of people have issues with. (You know, that one SUPER hot room?)! 
  4. Enhances Insulation Performance: Insulation works better in a properly sealed space. Of course, air leaks are not good for insulation for a variety of reasons, but it can reduce the efficiency of your brand new insulation. 
  5. Reduced Noise From Outside: Attic insulation and sealing can reduce outside noises, and increase your comfort in your home.  
  6. Less Pests: Less pollen, dust, dirt, and insects will be able to enter your home- nobody wants that! 

How Do I Know If I Need New Insulation?

The best way to find out if you need insulation is from a certified energy auditor. Energy auditors know exactly what to look for, and can give more insight on how much new insulation could actually save you each month. A seasoned auditor will also be able to give additional information on how to keep your home cool and comfortable. 
Some indications that you may need insulation would also include high energy bills, temperature fluctuations, uneven heating or cooling, drafts, visible damage, older insulation, or recent home improvements (especially when adding space to the home).

Is It Time?

Is it the right time for you to seal your attic and add on insulation? As we discussed, insulation and attic sealing can save you up to 15% a month on your electric bill for years to come.

​If you are ready, call us at 602-926-1650 or visit our website GreenIntegratedDesign.com. We would be happy to help you figure out what works best for you and your family. 
Not sure yet? Call us to schedule an energy audit- we will let you know where your home is leaking air, and how you can save money on your electricity bill each month. See below what that entails. 
​
**Our energy audit includes a quick interview before we test how energy efficient your home is. This includes a Visual Inspection of the House, Combustion Safety and Gas Leakage Tests, Whole House Blower Door Test, Duct Leakage Test, Duct Design Evaluation, Infrared Camera Inspection, Utility Bill Analysis, Static Pressure Test, Pressure Test, Water Heating Evaluation, Insulation and Air Barrier Evaluation, Pool Pump Evaluation, and a Home Energy Report. 
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Will Solar Replace My APS Bill?

4/16/2024

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One of the most-used ploys by solar companies includes the phrase “solar will replace your electric bill”! Although that would be nice, there is a lot more to it. Being the most abundant energy source on earth, solar is a great (and cheap) source of energy. In sunny Arizona with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees, many homeowners have thought about getting solar panels, but are unsure due to these outlandish claims. Many people are sick of APS rate hikes (you can read that blog here) and are looking for new ways to save. 
When it comes down to it, solar does not actually replace your APS bill. You still have to pay APS every month even if you receive a credit from your solar panels. 
solar panels, electric bill, replace bill, energy, clean energy, solar companies, credits, how do credits work, billing
Will solar replace your electric bill? Lets find out!

Why Do Solar Companies Say This?

Companies state that solar can replace your electric bill because solar can often cover a large chunk of your bill. Of course, your solar panels will be producing their own energy which lowers your APS bill, but a well designed solar system in Arizona will produce more energy than you actually used during the winter, accumulating credits on your APS bill each month. 

These credits will be stored and used in reserve during the summer months where your panels won’t be producing enough energy to offset your electricity use (thanks, air conditioner!). Those credits will almost always get used up in the summer and ideally net 0 out for the year. 

Billing

You will have a new bill from the solar company if you finance your panels, plus an APS bill. The tax credits that help make solar “free” only apply when you actually file your taxes. Even though you may have solar panels on the house, you will still be connected to APS’ power grid. Without this connection, you would not have electricity if your solar panels are not generating enough (rainy days, night, etc.). But, the new bill from the solar company will be less than what you pay APS every month. 

APS currently requires people that have solar panels to use their Time of Use Rate Plans (more on that here!). These plans have more expensive on-peak hours from 4pm-7pm and lower rates the rest of the day. This means that any extra energy needed from 4pm-7pm will be more expensive. ​

What Are Credits?

Any energy that goes unused is bought by APS. There are two different options for how you receive these credit amounts, and what these amounts will be. 

1. Resource Comparison Proxy Export Rate
One option that APS has is the Resource Comparison Proxy Export Rate plan, where credits roll over month to month and accounts with over $25 receive a check at the end of the year (below $25 rolls over). The credit amount will depend on what buyback rate you were placed on when you applied for your solar system. (more on APS.com). The APS buyback rate has dropped each year by about 10% since 2017- always on September 1st. This buyback rate is hovering around 8 cents a kWh. This can be locked in for 10 years, but if you choose to purchase more solar panels or move the solar panels you will lose the locked in rate.

2. Renewable Energy Net Billing

Another option that APS has is the “Renewable Energy Net Billing” plan. Any remaining credits will still roll over to the next month, but the amount depends on the on-peak or off-peak rates throughout the seasons. 
Overall, if your solar panels are producing more electricity than you are using, you sell it back to the grid and receive a credit on your bill. The credit from your bill will then (hopefully) cover what you used with APS for the rest of the day. 

Solar Tax Credits

There are currently a few options for solar tax credits in Phoenix. According to The City of Phoenix website, “solar energy systems installed between 2022 and 2032 are eligible for a tax credit worth 30% of the cost of the system and its installation. At this time there is no maximum amount that can be claimed”. This federal residential solar energy tax credit can be claimed on your federal income taxes during the same tax year as your solar installation. 
​
Another tax credit that can cut the initial solar installation costs is the Arizona Department of Revenues Income Tax Credit. This is only available for residential solar devices and offers a solar tax credit of 25% of the installation costs up to $1,000. This credit is to be claimed on your state income taxes during the same year as your solar installation. 
These tax credits can be combined with any other solar incentives offered by the federal government, state, local government, or APS. As always, you need to owe back enough in taxes to get the full benefit of these refunds. 

Is Solar Right For Me?

​Solar is a great way to save money on your electric bills each month. Whether you lease, finance, or purchase your solar panels outright, solar can be a great investment if you are looking to stay in your home for years to come. 
​
Green ID Phoenix can help you make sure that solar is right for you. With over 10 years in the Valley, we understand that nobody wants a pesky sales person in their home, so we created a way to send you a free digital quote here. Simply upload your utility bill, and we will send you a no obligation quote for you to review on your own time. 

We know that solar can be tricky, with tax incentives, batteries, installations, and dealing with APS. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 602-926-1650. 

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Two Things About Solar Panels That Often Get Overlooked

4/16/2024

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Solar is a great source of renewable energy, and more and more homeowners in Arizona are thinking about switching to this clean energy. With abundant sun and limited cloudy days, Arizona is a prime location for solar panels (especially with our AC bills!). We have all heard the solar panel installers pitches, aimed at every homeowner regardless of their family size, household size, or roof age. “Free solar!” “Solar panels save thousands!” “Pay nothing on your electricity bill!”, but is this always true? Does solar always save you money?
Solar Panel, Is Solar Right For You?
Is solar right for you?
No. Solar is a great option, especially compared to fossil fuels and other energy methods, but there are often a few things that go overlooked, especially when dealing with dishonest salesmen and non accredited solar companies. Think about it, how often do these salesmen ask about the orientation of your home, age of the roof, or if you are planning to sell in their pitch? We want to be honest with our neighbors- you don’t always need solar. Here are two things about solar that often go overlooked. 

1. Homeowners May Look At The ROI Wrong

One of the most common misconceptions among homeowners considering solar is the focus on Return on Investment (ROI). While ROI is an important factor to consider, it doesn't always provide the full picture of going solar. Instead, taking a look at your monthly utility bill can help you decide if solar is right for you. 

For example, let's say that your monthly energy bill from APS or SRP is $200. If you install solar panels and your monthly financing payment for the solar system comes in at $150, it could be a great cost-saving opportunity. This means that having solar on your home will be more cost-effective than doing nothing at all, the ROI is just an added benefit. You are effectively replacing your APS bill with one that’s less with solar.

On the other hand, suppose your monthly energy bill from APS or SRP is $150, and you install solar panels. If your monthly financing payment for the solar system comes in at $200, your utility bill may not be high enough to offset enough costs and make your solar panel system worth it- at least not for a while. 

These are especially important to take into consideration when you are being told that solar panels will take over your electric bill. 

2. Solar Craze

Some people just want solar, no matter what, and end up paying a higher amount with solar panels than they were without solar panels. This comes from a bad solar design, bad financing terms or dishonest salespeople over promising solar savings. We do not recommend solar in a few situations. 

1. Your Roof Will Not Fit Or Accommodate Solar Panels
If your roof will not fit or accommodate a good orientation for solar panels, the energy offset will probably not be enough to make the cost of solar panels worth it. If you have residential solar panels only facing the east and northern exposures, this would not be ideal for a solar home. If you have a lot of smaller sections of roof, solar panels will be much harder to accommodate. ​

Bad solar panels, do not need solar panels
2. Large Shaded Areas
Large trees, buildings, poles, electrical wires, bird poop… these can all shade solar panels. If there’s a large shaded area on the roof, and the panels will not get sun exposure, why waste money putting solar panels there? Over time, the battery will not be able to fully charge, which will eventually cause issues along with poor energy savings.
If my house has shade should I get solar?
3. You Are Moving Soon
If you are planning to move or sell your home, you should not get solar panels. Unless you are able to pay for them in full and believe that it will be a great selling point, (which it could be), it could just add on extra costs. In fact, houses with solar panel leases tend to sell for less than a home without solar, since the lease is just another added expense for the buyer. It is also extremely expensive to move solar panels from one home to another, and solar panels should stay where they were installed to get the most out of their lifetime.

4. You Don’t Pay Much Already
If you are already paying under $75 a month for your electric bill, solar may just be an added expense. We mainly see these low energy costs in smaller homes and smaller family sizes, or in places where the average cost/electricity rates are generally lower- (thanks, utility company!). The eventual long term solar savings will likely not be substantial enough to justify the upfront costs, the initial loan and installation fees. If you still want solar, look into adjusting the solar system's size to see what could work for you. 


Is Solar Right For You?
​Solar can be a great way to save money on your electric bills each month. Whether you lease, finance, or purchase your solar panels outright, solar can be a great investment if it is right for your home. A good way to tell is that if your energy produced exceeds your energy consumption- you’re golden!
Green ID Phoenix can help you make sure that solar is right for you. With over 10 years in the Valley, we understand that nobody wants a pesky sales person in their home, so we created a way to send you a free digital quote here. Simply upload your utility bill, and we will send you a no obligation quote for you to review on your own time. 

Luckily, there are federal solar tax credits that could help you pay for your residential solar system. To read more about these tax breaks, visit our blogs or visit “Solar Energy Systems Credits” here. 

We know that solar can be tricky, especially with tax credits, batteries, solar installation, and dealing with APS or SRP. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 602-926-1650. 

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