What’s Your Energy Efficiency IQ?

Understanding your energy usage and where you can be more efficient is a major step toward lowering your energy bill. Test your knowledge with our quiz!

Take the Quiz

1. What typically uses the most energy in a household?

Correct!Incorrect! Heating in the colder months and cooling in the warmer months are the most expensive energy users in a typical home, but you may notice a higher bill during the winter — in the U.S., heating can require up to four times as much energy as cooling.

2. What are “vampire energy” and “ghost energy” nicknames for?

Correct!Incorrect! Also called “phantom load,” the energy used by devices that are plugged in but not in active use (think computers, TVs, cell phone chargers and some power strips, etc.) can add up a surprising amount.

3. How often should you change your HVAC’s air filter?

Correct!Incorrect! How often you need to change your air filter will depend on factors in your home — how much dust accumulates, how old your system is, whether you have pets and other variables. But typically, replacing your filter every few months will help the entire system run more efficiently.

4. Which of these habits will not improve your energy efficiency?

Correct!Incorrect! Actually, closing HVAC vents can stress the system and make it work harder, driving up your costs.

5. What percentage of a typical energy bill comes from lighting?

Correct!Incorrect! Lights account for 12% of a typical bill. Be sure to replace bulbs with LEDs, turn off lights whenever you leave a room, and consider setting lights on a timer to lower that number.

6. According to Energy Star®, what is the typical lifespan of an LED?

Correct!Incorrect! Several factors can impact the lifespan of an LED bulb, including how often it is used or if it is exposed to extreme heat. So, while it is possible for a LED to last for 10 years, the most common lifespan is 4 to 6 years.

Your Score: 0/5 correct!

Congratulations! You’re an energy know-it-all!

You know how to use energy wisely in order to manage your bill – and you know lots of ways to make that happen. Take a look through the TakeCharge website to explore the programs we have available, and share your knowledge with others. We’re on a mission to educate consumers on how to use less energy and save more money – and you can help!

Not bad, but you’ve got more to learn.

It looks like you know that managing your energy bill can be accomplished by improving the energy efficiency of your home, but you might not know all the ways to make that happen. We are excited to help you learn more! Take a look through the TakeCharge website to explore the programs and tips available. You’ll be an expert in no time!

Yikes, not great! You’ve got a lot to learn.

Do you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home, but don’t know where to start? We can help! Take a look through the TakeCharge website to explore the programs and tips available. We’ll turn you into an expert in no time!

For energy-saving tips and Bright Ideas, visit Bright Ideas or check out how our programs can help you save by visiting Programs For Your Home.

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.

Contact Us