Seasonal Tips Summer Calendar Winner

Thank you to everyone who visited our Wattsmart Homes website and subscribed to receive summer household tips. Congratulations to our latest winner, Caroline from Holladay, Utah, for entering our Seasonal Tips Calendar promotion. She selected a $100 VISA gift card being this season’s winner!

Good news for those who didn’t win – you can still subscribe and receive fall season tips on WattsmartHomes.com. Don’t miss this helpful calendar because, according to a previous winner:  “I have found the tips extremely helpful, especially as a first-time home buyer.”

If you haven’t subscribed yet, do so today and learn how to keep your home healthy while saving money and energy.

For more information on rebates available to help you save money and energy on your home, visit our main page at WattsmartHomes.com.

Seasonal Tips Spring Calendar Winner

gift card

Thank you to everyone who visited our Wattsmart Homes website and subscribed to receive spring household tips. Congratulations to the winning family from Idaho Falls, ID, for entering our Seasonal Tips Calendar promotion. They also selected a $100 gift card to Home Depot for being this season’s winner!

Good news for those who didn’t win – you can still subscribe and receive summer season tips on WattsmartHomes.com. Don’t miss this helpful calendar because, according to a previous winner:  “I have found the tips extremely helpful, especially as a first-time home buyer.”

If you haven’t subscribed yet, do so today and learn how to keep your home healthy while saving money and energy.

For more information on rebates available to help you save money and energy on your home, visit our main page at WattsmartHomes.com.

Saving Energy in Rental Properties

FOR RENTERS:

You can take charge of your electric bill, even if you don’t own your living space. It’s about making small, manageable steps to reduce energy consumption that add up to significant savings. Let’s look at ways you can make a positive impact.

Simple changes in your daily habits

Some of the easiest things you can do are free. For example, turn off lights when you leave a room and unplug appliances when they’re not in use. We’ve collected valuable tips for you that don’t cost a cent! Check out our downloadable tip sheet, Power Up Your Savings: Energy Efficiency Tips for Renters.

Make wise purchases with rebates

Wattsmart® Homes is Rocky Mountain Power’s rebate program, through which you can receive cash back for qualifying products. For example, there are rebates on smart plugs that allow you to easily control your energy usage. If you’d like to install a smart thermostat or smart switch, reach out to your landlord first, and then take advantage of available rebates. Wattsmart Homes also offers rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, so if you install your own washer and dryer, be sure to purchase models with the ENERGY STAR label.

Work with your landlord

Notice cracks in seals around your window or drafts coming in under your doors? Contact your landlord to install weatherization to keep your warmed or cooled air from escaping. Customer-driven changes are an empowering way to lower your utility bills! Talk to your landlord about your energy efficiency concerns to help shape energy savings in potential renovations. When it’s time for an upgrade, they’ll know you care. Let them know Wattsmart Homes has rebates for heating and cooling, weatherization and appliances.

Don’t forget to view and download the tips on how to become an energy-saving master!

 

FOR LANDLORDS & PROPERTY OWNERS:

Great Opportunities

Upgrades and renovations offer building owners and landlords opportunities for greater energy efficiency and resulting cost savings. If your property has electric baseboard heat, high electric bills are likely your renters’ biggest complaints. Being proactive is key when it comes to energy efficiency. Waiting until systems fail or energy bills skyrocket can result in unnecessary expenses and disruptions to renters. Look into Wattsmart Homes’ rebates for a full range of systems and appliances. With rebates, you can maximize your return on investment and reduce energy costs for renters for years to come.

Peace of mind

Energy-saving upgrades can also save time and reduce hassle. Advanced HVAC systems equipped with remote monitoring and control capabilities let landlords troubleshoot issues from anywhere. You can check such a system and adjust temperature settings remotely to save time and reduce on-site visits on nights and weekends. If you have a furnace, a dual fuel heat pump offers a potential backup heat source in harsh winters if something goes awry. The system will run your furnace less often, extending its lifespan, and provide central air conditioning in the summer months. If your property uses baseboard heating, ductless heat pumps provide heating and cooling for individual units with no invasive ductwork or insulation.

For more information on different types of heat pumps and what would work best for your property, visit https://wattsmarthomes.com/heat-pump-comfort/

Renter retention

In today’s competitive real estate market, renters are increasingly looking for properties that offer modern amenities. By investing in energy-saving technologies such as heat pumps, smart thermostats and energy-efficient appliances, landlords can attract and retain renters who want to save money on their power bills. The right heating upgrade could save renters up to 50% on their bill – and that will inspire them to spread the word about renting from you.

Be proactive and invest in energy-saving technologies. You’ll reduce operating costs and enjoy greater convenience while attracting and retaining renters. Visit WattsmartHomes.com to learn more.

Share our renter tip sheet with your renters to help them save money in their living space!

Announcing Utah Program Updates – March 2024 Newsletter

Changes to Wattsmart Homes Program in Utah

As you may know, necessary incentive adjustments to the dual fuel heat pump measure were determined earlier this year. As homeowners take advantage of heat pump incentives – most notably, the IRS 25C tax credit – and stronger-than-expected adoption, the current incentive levels were unsustainable. A slight incentive reduction will occur based on valuable feedback from our contractor partners. A $500 decrease (in total) is being split between the contractor and customer portions of the incentive, as seen below. In addition, we are also streamlining the dual fuel heat pump tiers to just three, as outlined in this table.

There will be two tiers for AHRI-matched systems – 90 AFUE and 80 AFUE tiers – while the program now offers a de-rated dual fuel heat pump tier. This tier will be a “catch-all” of sorts, allowing projects that previously would not have qualified for reasons such as:
  • No AHRI pairing
  • Mismatched equipment
  • Standalone heat pump/coil combinations
  • Standalone outdoor heat pump units
The above is a short list; more information will be provided when this change is launched. The program team is excited to bring this additional tier to the market.
These changes are currently planned for a May 1, 2024, effective date. That means all projects received up to April 30, 2024, will be under the existing tiers and incentives.
Please reach out to your energy specialist for more information or with questions.

 


The Perks of Being a Pro

Pro Network certificate
Pro Network logo
We have recently designated several of our vendors for their outstanding participation in Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart rebate programs as “Pro Network” contractors. How does a vendor become a Pro Network contractor? By offering their customers a premium caliber of knowledge, efficiency and service. Pro Network contractors are knowledgeable about heat pump benefits and have a demonstrated history of quality installations. In return, Pro Network contractors receive additional benefits, including exclusive marketing, streamlined payment processes, networking events, awards and more.

If you are interested in whether you may be eligible for the Pro Network, contact your field specialist for more details.

 


Be Prepared With Springtime Upgrades and Rebate Ideas

Winter is ending, and the cooling season will soon be upon us. Spring is a time for home projects, and upgrading one’s cooling system is top of the list for many homeowners.
The demand for heat pumps continues to grow. Being prepared to offer the available rebate incentives for qualifying heat pump installations will allow you to provide more efficient and economical choices for your customers. This, in turn, will keep your company competitive in the market.
heat pump

 
Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart Program works with you to get you up to speed on the current incentives available. Our helpful outreach staff is ready to assist your company, keeping you up to date on the current program and any changes coming down the pipeline.

Whether you are a seasoned Wattsmart veteran, or a new trade ally in the program, it never hurts to get a program refresher!

Things to consider heading into the cooling season:

  • You can communicate the available utility rebates to your customers.
  • Your supplier or outreach team can help to confirm equipment pairings can generate an AHRI certificate and qualify.
  • Note that if a customer wants to fully electrify with a heat pump from natural gas, unfortunately we cannot incentivize that.

When submitting applications:

  • Please take note of the home’s previous heating and cooling prior to the system upgrade, as this determines eligibility and rebates.
  • Be sure to add the customer’s email address and phone number.
  • Clearly itemize the model and serial numbers of the equipment installed on the customer invoice.
  • Lastly, don’t forget the ENERGY STAR®-rated thermostat!

So, be “spring ready” this cooling season, and remember to contact your outreach specialist with any questions or concerns you may have. We are here to help you be successful in offering rebate incentives to your customers, allowing them to make more affordable, energy-efficient choices!


Popular YouTube Influencer Promotes Heat Pumps

Zack Nelson is a social media influencer with over 8 million subscribers on YouTube. He specializes in technology, alternative energy and scientific understanding for average consumers.
Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart program has partnered with Zack and his JerryRigEverything channel to create a video on how heat pump technology works and why customers will want to invest in this newer, more efficient technology.
In his video, Why is Everyone Talking About Heat Pumps, viewers will see a real-life upgrade being completed as he answers questions like,
  • What is a heat pump?
  • How do they work?
  • Why would you want one?
  • How can you get one?
Click the image below to watch the video (it’s in English).
Follow along as we dive into the hot and the cool parts of a heat pump! Share this video with any customers who have questions. And, of course, be sure to like and subscribe!
 


CONTACT YOUR OUTREACH TEAM

Rob Pavlica
Rob Pavlica
Wyoming
David Murillo
David Murillo
Utah
Jason Williams
Jason Williams
Utah
Joshua Smith
Joshua Smith
North Utah and Idaho

The Wattsmart Smart Homes team is here to help you stay informed.

Seasonal Tips Winter Calendar Winner

gift card
Thank you to all 500+ people who visited our Wattsmart Homes website and subscribed to receive winter household tips. Congratulations to Thomas from West Jordan, UT, for entering our Seasonal Tips Calendar promotion and winning a $100 gift card to Home Depot!

Good news for those who didn’t win – you can still subscribe and receive spring season tips on WattsmartHomes.com. Don’t miss this useful calendar because, according to Thomas:  “I have found the tips extremely helpful, especially as a first-time home buyer.”

If you haven’t subscribed yet, do so today and learn how to keep your home healthy while saving money and energy.

For more information on rebates available to help you save money and energy on your home visit our main page at WattsmartHomes.com.

Easily Defy Winter Damage With Rooftop Heat Tape

Winter can be harsh on your home – especially on your roof. If you’ve ever had ice dams, you know they can result in water damage to walls, ceilings, and/or insulation and ruin areas of your roof. Sure, you can go out there with a roof rake after each storm to avoid damage. Or, you can install rooftop heat tape with a timer and let the gear do the work!

What is rooftop heat tape?

heat tape on a snowy roof
Heat tape melting snow

Also known as rooftop heat cables, it is equipment attached to areas of your roof to melt and remove snow before it has a chance to freeze, melt and seep in. The tape or cables can be plugged and unplugged as needed.

Why install a rooftop heat tape timer?

1. The timer automatically turns off the rooftop tape when it’s no longer needed, saving you energy.
2. You don’t have to remember to shut it off.
3. Rebates* are available in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.

ice dam
Icicles

Icicles are lovely and a true sign of winter. It’s the melting and refreezing that isn’t pretty. So ask your favorite participating contractor about rooftop heat tape and a timer before winter wreaks havoc on your home.

*Note: To earn a rebate, the equipment must be installed by a program participating contractor.

Don’t miss your chance to get paid! – November 2023 Newsletter

Trade allies ─ time is running out to submit your project applications and ensure you are paid in 2023. The application timeframe varies by state, so refer to the chart below. Check for unsubmitted applications TODAY, and don’t miss out on you and your customers getting paid!

Make sure all applications are submitted by December 1 for payment in 2023.

State Deadline Application Window*
Idaho December 1, 2023 90 days
Utah December 1, 2023 180 days
Wyoming December 1, 2023 90 days

*From installation date

 

Eligibility requirements can be found on the website at Wattsmarthomes.com, and applications can be submitted online via the application portal. For additional questions or support, reach out to your outreach specialist for assistance.

 

CONTACT YOUR OUTREACH TEAM

Rob Pavlica
Rob Pavlica
Wyoming
David Murillo
David Murillo
Utah
Jason Williams
Jason Williams
Utah
Joshua Smith
Joshua Smith
North Utah and Idaho

The Wattsmart Smart Homes team is here to help you stay informed.

What’s a Watt Contest Winner

Thank you to all 7000+ people who visited our What’s A Watt website and played the game. Congratulations to Raquel from Bancroft, Idaho, for entering our What’s a Watt contest and winning a $100 gift card!
Now that you better understand your bill and energy usage, check out some ways to save here at WattsmartHomes.com.

Radio Interview – Keep Warm With Heat Pumps

Winter will be here soon, but there is still time to install and get cash back on a heat pump. In this interview, Chris Fleming recommends listeners visit our website to learn about energy efficiency opportunities, how to save money, and so much more. If you missed Chris’ October interview, click here.