TakeCharge VA | Energy Explorer

Knowledge is power when it comes to your energy usage.

Your energy bill is based directly on how many kilowatt-hours you use. Keeping the lights on isn't cheap, not to mention the air conditioning, furnace or hot water heater. In fact, according to ENERGY STAR^®, the typical family spends more than $2,000 a year on energy bills.

Discover the hidden patterns in your home's energy use and take control of your consumption. By understanding when and where your home uses the most power — whether it's during peak hours, with certain appliances or through unnoticed habits — you can make smart, simple changes that could really add up to savings. Start exploring today and see how easy changes — like upgrading lightbulbs, adjusting your thermostat or shifting usage times — can make your home more energy efficient and lighten your energy costs.

Step 1: Explore Your Energy Habits

Your home is always using energy, perhaps more than you realize. Get started by discovering:

When your home uses the most energy
Which systems, appliances or electronics consume the most power
Where inefficiencies may be hiding

Do all this and more through your Home Energy Profile. Log in to the Appalachian Power Customer Account Portal to see your home's energy history and cost breakdowns. Compare your home to others of similar size to also find potential areas of concern!

Visit the Customer Account Portal

Step 2: Follow the Path to Energy Savings

With a basic understanding of your home’s energy use, small adjustments can make a big impact. Knowing which adjustments you could make, however, that’s the next step.

Begin by looking for clues around your home in your everyday routines.

Older appliances use more energy. Which appliances do you run most often — and when? Can you shift high-demand usage (like running your dishwasher) to an off-peak usage time (like overnight)? Can you invest in a new ENERGY STAR^® certified appliance?
Are lights or a ceiling fan being left on in unused rooms? Can you switch to LED lightbulbs or start a habit of flipping the switch when you exit?
Did you know that up to 90% of energy used in a washing machine is to heat water? What water temperature do you have your washer set to? Wash your clothes in cold water to reduce energy use.
Do you have electronic devices plugged in when not in use? Use smart power strips or try unplugging TVs, gaming consoles and more to eliminate phantom — or standby — power usage.

By following the trail of these small adjustments, you can begin to transform your home’s energy footprint and start seeing real savings without sacrificing comfort.

Next, explore expert suggestions and research proven tips to learn even more! We’ve collected a few resources here to help.

Home Energy Efficiency

What’s Your Energy Efficiency IQ?

ENERGY STAR^® Home Upgrade Checklist Quiz

ENERGY STAR^® — Energy Star Home Upgrade

U.S. DOE – Better Buildings Solutions Center: Be a Smart and Engaged Homeowner

U.S. EPA — Reduce the Environmental Impact of Your Energy Use

Natural Resources Defense Council — Energy Efficiency: The Clean Facts

U.S. Energy Information Administration — Energy Explained

Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine — 18 Ways to Cut Your Energy Bill

Step 3: Crack the Code and Find the Savings

Every clue you uncover brings you closer to becoming a true energy explorer — and the rewards are worth the investigation. Simple habit changes, easy home improvements and smart buying can make a difference, saving you energy AND money. Every energy-efficient choice, no matter how minor, contributes to a more comfortable, eco-friendly (and cost-effective) home. Better yet, results can build over time. Start small, track progress through your Home Energy Profile and explore even more ways to solve for energy efficiency!

Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?

If you need more information or have questions about TakeCharge’s programs and rebates, please reach out.

Be an Energy Explorer!