Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sharps Chapel
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sharps Chapel, HEP makes cutting-edge comfort feel downright neighborly. Our energy-efficiency specialists replace guesswork with precision, pairing today’s smartest controls with your existing HVAC system so it only sips the power it truly needs. Imagine waking up to the perfect temperature, whether the Tennessee morning brings fog off Norris Lake or sunshine through the oaks—without ever touching a dial.
Thermostat upgrades are the small, affordable tweak that unlocks big savings, and HEP handles everything from seamless installation to personalized programming. We’ll show you, step-by-step, how to fine-tune schedules from your phone, speak the language of ENERGY STAR, and enjoy cleaner air and quieter nights. Ready to spend less on utilities and more on what matters? Give us a call today and discover how easy it is to be cozy, cool and energy-wise all year long.
FAQs
What advantages will a programmable or smart thermostat give me in Sharps Chapel’s climate?
Sharps Chapel experiences hot, humid summers and cool winters, so an adaptive thermostat can automatically adjust temperature schedules to match seasonal swings. You gain: • Up to 10 %–15 % lower heating and cooling costs by setting back temperatures when the home is empty or you’re asleep. • Greater comfort—smart models learn your habits and fine-tune run-times to eliminate hot or cold spots. • Remote access through a phone app, ideal for second homes on Norris Lake. • Alerts for temperature extremes, filter changes, and equipment faults—helping you avoid costly repairs and frozen pipes. • Detailed energy-use reports that identify additional saving opportunities.
How much can I really save on my utility bill with a thermostat upgrade?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates a programmable thermostat can trim roughly 10 % of annual heating and cooling costs when setbacks are used consistently. Smart thermostats often push savings to 12 %–20 % thanks to occupancy sensors, geofencing, and weather tracking. In Sharps Chapel, where electric rates average about 11¢/kWh, that translates to $80–$180 in yearly savings for an average 2,000-sq-ft home. Because installation costs are modest, most homeowners recover their investment in 1–2 cooling/heating seasons.
Will a smart thermostat work with my heat pump or dual-fuel system?
Yes. Most current smart thermostats—including Ecobee, Nest, Honeywell T-Series, and Emerson Sensi—support conventional gas/electric furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and dual-fuel (hybrid) systems common in East Tennessee. During installation we program advanced settings such as compressor lockout, balance points, and auxiliary heat staging to ensure the thermostat doesn’t over-rely on electric backup heat, which maximizes energy savings while protecting equipment.
Do I need a C-wire, and what if my existing wiring is older?
Nearly all Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats require a continuous 24-V “common” (C) wire for power. If your current thermostat only has two to four wires, we can usually: 1) repurpose an unused conductor, 2) install a C-wire adapter module supplied by the thermostat manufacturer, or 3) pull new low-voltage cable from the air-handler control board. Our technicians test voltage and transformer capacity during the visit to guarantee reliable, code-compliant operation.
Are there local rebates or incentives for upgrading thermostats in Sharps Chapel?
Yes. Customers of Powell Valley Electric Cooperative or KUB who receive power from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) may qualify for a $50–$75 bill credit through TVA’s EnergyRight program when they install an eligible ENERGY STAR® smart thermostat. Additional seasonal promotions are sometimes offered by manufacturers. We’ll handle the paperwork, provide proof of installation, and submit your rebate so you get the full incentive without hassle.
How long does professional installation take and will it affect my HVAC warranty?
A standard thermostat replacement takes 45–90 minutes, including wiring verification, mounting, programming, and a quick tutorial on using the mobile app. Because the work is performed by our NATE-certified technicians following ACCA guidelines, your existing HVAC manufacturer’s warranty remains fully intact. We also provide a one-year labor warranty on the installation itself for your peace of mind.