This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by the Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy team (AIRE). This county program helps you make smart energy decisions that save you money and leaves a lighter footprint on the environment. Got a question? Email us at [email protected]!
- Energy vampires are in all of our homes.
- They suck (energy), not just on Oct. 31, but year round.
- Easily identify and stop them (no garlic or wooden stake necessary).
Halloween is just around the corner. Do you have vampires lurking in your home?
YES! Energy vampires exist in all of our homes! Believe it or not, many electronics use energy while they are switched off or are in standby mode. They’re called “energy vampires” because they suck energy, the lifeblood of your home, year round.
The typical American home has 40 devices that are continuously sucking power. It’s only a small amount of power per house but it adds up. Some of the main energy-sucking culprits in the home are your computer printer, DVD player, laptop, coffee maker, TV, stereo system, game console, microwave oven, or cell phone charger. Many culprits have lights that continue to operate after the appliance is turned off.
Arlington County Library can help! They have Kill-A-Watt devices available for checkout. These devices show what is sucking energy at your house, how much, and what it is costing you. This is fun for kids and adults (school science experiment — hint hint).
How to stop energy vampires:
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Plug your devices into a power strip and turn the strip off when not in use.
- Buy ENERGYSTAR appliances.
- Activate sleep mode instead of a screen saver on your computer.
Saving energy and money is a treat you can enjoy all year long. If you’re interested in achieving deeper energy savings, check out our Home Energy Rebates. You can receive up to $575 to reduce your energy use.
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Join MoCA Arlington Summer Camps at Marymount University and learn the fundamentals of handbuilding, throwing on a wheel, glazing, and much more. In this two-week course, students will explore hand building techniques, wheel throwing, and strengthen ideas that exemplify individual artist expression guided by professional working artists. Students of all skill levels are welcome!
Visit MoCA Arlington’s Website here and the registration page to secure your space today!
Please join us on Saturday, June 3, from 2 to 4 pm for the Glencarlyn Home Tour in Arlington’s historic Glencarlyn neighborhood. Among the featured homes will be a sparkling new home by A&N Builders at 5604-4th St. South. The inviting front porch opens to a light-filled space featuring high ceiling, wood floors, gas fireplace, Pella windows, Shrock cabinets, Quartz countertop, and JennAir appliances. Doors from the family room open to a large covered porch with a few steps to the level, landscaped rear yard. Upstairs, there are four bedrooms, three bathrooms, laundry room, and linen storage. The big lower level has a rec room, gym space, and a fifth bedroom and bathroom plus even more storage. After leaving the home, stroll to the Ball-Sellers home, the oldest residence in Arlington, the community gardens at the library, Carlin Hall, and the 94 acre Glencarlyn Park. A lovely way to while away a late spring afternoon.
Homebuying 101: Steps to Getting Pre-Approved
Are you ready to jump into homeownership or started considering it but don’t know where to start? Financial preparation is key when thinking about purchasing your first home and the first step to getting pre-approved.
Join ACFCU’s mortgage loan officers
4th of July Celebration & Fireworks
Treat yourself this Independence Day with a world-class, private 4th of July extravaganza at the Military Women’s Memorial – a premier National Capital Region site.
Great food, fun, and the best views of Washington DC’s spectacular fireworks display. Relax, enjoy,
