Why Convert to Electric Appliances?

A recent nationwide survey of American homeowners by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) revealed some of the reasons homeowners are switching to electric appliances over traditional fossil fuel alternatives. The top five reasons are:

1. Increased safety
2. Simpler to clean (specifically, electric stoves are easier to clean than gas stoves)
3. Better for the environment
4. Improved energy efficiency
5. Greater reliability

Environmental Concerns

The local burning of fossil fuels like oil and gas produces carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, which all contribute to air pollution. Smog, acid rain, climate change, and ocean acidification all stem from the use of fossil fuels as an energy source.

Even running smaller fossil fuel-burning appliances can have a large impact. For instance, running a leaf blower for an hour produces the air pollution equivalent of driving a new car 1,100 miles (California Air Resources Board – Small Engines Fact Sheet).

Survey participants listed environmental issues as a top reason for switching to electric appliances.

Energy Efficiency

With rising energy costs in mind, survey respondents ranked efficiency as one of the key reasons they moved over to electric appliances. Electric utilities/appliances are consistently ranked higher in efficiency then their fossil fuel counterparts. For example:

• Induction stoves are nearly three times more efficient than gas-powered models
• Electric heat pumps are more than twice as efficient as gas water boilers

The increase in efficiency, for many homeowners, also equates to a decrease in energy costs on monthly bills.

Tax Credits and No-Cost Assessments

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides substantial tax credits for homeowners who choose to electrify their homes. For example, you can receive up to $2,000 in credits for installing heat pumps and up to $840 for purchasing an induction stove. Additionally, the Home Energy Efficiency Tax Credit allows for a 30% tax credit, up to $1,200 annually, for energy-efficient home improvements.

Homeowners can also take advantage of rebates and no-cost energy assessments, which identify the most effective areas for improvement, ensuring that the transition is both affordable and impactful.

How Can Walden Help?

To learn about some other clean energy upgrades that homeowners can make, read Walden’s blog here. You can also download our sustainability guide for additional information.

If you’d like to take advantage of programs that offer assistance with no-cost assessments, tax credits, and more, Walden’s team of experts can help you evaluate your situation and assist with the application process. Contact us today at 516-518-3705 to speak with one of our sustainability consultants.