Savings Opportunities for Seasonal Residents
In late spring and summer, seasonal residents flock to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard to enjoy the region’s scenic beaches, seaside restaurants, and unique shops. In fact, more than 35% of housing units across Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard are occupied only for seasonal or part-time use.1
If you’re a seasonal resident – who doesn’t have lighting, heating, cooling, and appliances running year-round – snagging the last parking spot at the beach may be more top-of-mind than the need to lower your energy use. However, that doesn’t mean you aren’t on the lookout for simple ways to make your home more comfortable and have a smaller environmental footprint. Cape Light Compact has a variety of energy-saving solutions to add comfort, convenience, and efficiency to your home.
- Complete a no-cost home energy assessment.
Perhaps the easiest way to get started is to begin with a no-cost home energy assessment. By calling 1-800-797-6699 or signing up online, you’ll be on your way to setting up a time for an approved vendor to visit your home, assess your current energy consumption, and identify potential energy-saving opportunities. Whether it’s by making upgrades, like improving insulation, or just making simple changes, like switching out incandescent bulbs, you’ll receive clear steps on how to avoid energy waste and increase comfort. Plus, you’ll be eligible for free LED bulbs, water fixtures, and air sealing.
2. Switch to ENERGY STAR certified appliances.
Whether or not you choose to complete a home energy assessment, it’s worth exploring the Compact’s rebates on ENERGY STAR certified appliances. If you typically run an old dehumidifier to manage moisture on humid days or rely on an inefficient window air conditioner to keep cool in the summer heat, making the switch to more modern, efficient appliances can enhance comfort and lower energy consumption. Plus, the Compact offers a $30 rebate on qualifying dehumidifiers and $40 rebate on qualifying room air conditioners, as well as rebates on other popular appliances like dryers and room air cleaners. You can receive rebates for recycling certain old appliances, too! The Compact supports a no-cost fridge and freezer recycling program, through which you can earn a $75 rebate for safely retiring your old unit. If you have an old dehumidifier that you’re looking to dispose of, they’ll haul that away during the fridge pickup as well, and offer an additional $30 rebate!
3. Keep cool with a heat pump.
Heat pumps don’t just offer a solution for efficient heating, but also provide a means of efficient cooling. So, whether you need a system to warm you up during the occasional chilly morning or are looking for a way to keep your living space cool and comfortable, a heat pump may offer the perfect solution. Both a central air source heat pump and a mini-split system, the latter of which allows for customized heating and cooling in different zones of your home, offer greater efficiency compared to traditional heating and air conditioning systems. Plus, the Compact offers a rebate on both types of technology. To learn more about these offers, check out the Compact’s rebate page.
4. Manage energy waste from your electronics.
Even when electronics aren’t actively in use, they are often consuming energy thanks to small components, like internal timers or LED indicator lights. Whether you’re leaving your home for the workweek or just heading out for a day at the beach, you don’t want to let energy waste pile up while you’re gone. Fortunately, there’s an easier solution than going through the hassle of unplugging and re-plugging each appliance. Advanced power strips can detect when electronics are not in use and automatically cut off power to these electronics and supporting devices. While the Compact offers free advanced power strips during its home energy assessment program, these power strips are also available for purchase through the Mass Save online storefront.
While you may be eager to head to your Cape or Vineyard home to enjoy your favorite summer pastimes, don’t forget these four simple steps to create a more comfortable, environmentally–friendly seasonal home. Want help getting started? Contact the Compact today by phone 1-800-797-6699 or email info@capelightcompact.org.