Ways to save energy and money at home
Stay comfortable and use energy wisely all year
Higher bills in summer and winter usually come down to heating and cooling. When it's very hot or cold outside, your system works harder to keep your home comfortable. The good news is that small changes add up, and you don't have to figure it out alone. Track your daily energy use in myMTE, get free advice from an MTE EnergyPro, find rebates on qualifying upgrades, and choose a bill plan that's easier to budget for. As your not-for-profit electric cooperative, we're here to help you find what fits your home.
You can't change what you can't see. myMTE shows your daily energy use in easy-to-read graphs, along with temperatures and billing period details. Check it after a hot or cold stretch to see how the weather affects your use and plan your next steps. You can also set notifications to receive updates on your energy use and billing activity without logging in.
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Your habits matter, but so does your home. Air leaks, worn ducts, and an aging heating and air system can make your system work harder than it needs to. MTE EnergyPros can help you figure out what to prioritize. When you're ready to upgrade, MTE and TVA EnergyRight offer rebates and financing for qualifying improvements. Our Energy Solutions page brings these programs together in one place so you can find the right fit for your home.
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Seasonal swings can make budgeting hard. myEnergyPlan lets you choose a bill plan that fits your lifestyle. MTE recommends adding Levelized, which averages your energy use over the past 12 months so your bill stays more consistent throughout the year. You can also pick a due date that’s the most convenient for you.
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Heating and cooling are the biggest part of most home energy bills. The bigger the gap between the outside temperature and your thermostat setting, the longer your system runs to keep up. Even if you don't touch the thermostat, a long hot or cold stretch can raise your bill.
- Set your water heater to 120 degrees.
- Switch your ceiling fan direction for the season – counterclockwise in summer and clockwise in winter.
- Clean or replace your air conditioner filter regularly.
- Switch to LED bulbs.
- Use smart power strips for electronics.
- Seal air leaks around outlets and ducts.
- Check that your refrigerator door seals close tightly.
Helpful resources
Find more ways to save
Small changes add up. Our energy tips cover simple, low-cost habits for every season to help you stay comfortable and use energy wisely.
Reduce seasonal highs and lows
MTE’s Levelized Plan averages your electricity use over the past 12 months, so your monthly bill stays more consistent, even during the hottest and coldest months.
Talk with an MTE EnergyPro
Have questions about saving energy, improving comfort, or choosing the right energy solution for your home? MTE EnergyPros are here to help you understand your options and find practical next steps that fit your needs.
Email: energyservices@mte.com
Phone: 877-777-9020
Online: mte.com/EnergySolutions
