How Georgia Power Price Hikes Are Impacting Griffin Homeowners – And How HVAC Maintenance Can Help You Save
In recent months, Georgia homeowners have felt the financial strain of rising energy costs, with Georgia Power's price hikes causing a noticeable impact on household budgets. As summer temperatures soared, residents in Griffin and across the state were hit hard with increased energy bills. According to a recent report from WRDW, electricity bills have skyrocketed, with some customers seeing up to a 17% increase in their power costs. These higher-than-expected costs have left many scrambling to find ways to reduce their energy consumption and save money.
One of the most effective ways homeowners can combat these rising bills is through regular HVAC maintenance. Properly servicing your heating and cooling system can significantly improve its efficiency, helping you reduce energy usage and, ultimately, lower those hefty electricity bills. At Hammond Services, we understand how crucial it is to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, especially in the face of escalating energy costs.
How HVAC Maintenance Saves Money
1. Improved Energy Efficiency:
A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, meaning it uses less energy to cool or heat your home. Dirty filters, clogged coils, and other neglected components force your unit to work harder, driving up energy consumption. Regular cleaning and servicing can help your system maintain optimal performance, reducing the amount of power it needs to run.
2. Prevent Costly Breakdowns:
Unexpected HVAC repairs
can add to the financial burden, especially during the hottest months of the year. Scheduling routine maintenance can help catch potential issues early before they turn into expensive problems that require urgent repairs.
3. Extend the Lifespan of Your Unit:
Investing in regular maintenance not only improves efficiency but also extends the life of your HVAC system. When a unit is well cared for, it can run for years without major issues, delaying the need for costly replacements.
4. Take Advantage of Smart Thermostats:
During your HVAC maintenance, our technicians can recommend energy-saving upgrades like smart thermostats, which allow you to control your home's temperature more effectively, helping you avoid wasting energy when you're not home.
Georgia Power's Price Hikes: What You Need to Know
The recent rate increases by Georgia Power have left many homeowners wondering how to manage these rising costs. In fact, WRDW reports that this latest hike, combined with a 12% increase earlier this year, has left some families struggling to pay their utility bills. By reducing your energy consumption through regular HVAC maintenance, you can take proactive steps to counteract these surging rates.
At Hammond Services, we are committed to helping homeowners in Griffin, GA, and the surrounding areas maintain their HVAC systems to save on energy costs. Whether it's cleaning, repairs, or recommending energy-efficient upgrades, we’re here to help you navigate these challenging times with professional, reliable HVAC services.
Don’t let rising power bills take control of your budget. Contact Hammond Services
today to schedule your HVAC maintenance and start saving on your energy costs!
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Summers in Georgia can be intense. Brutal heat and high humidity often make your home feel like a sauna. With air conditioning demands soaring, this can overload the power grid, leading to brownouts, partial power reductions that dim your lights and shut down non-essential appliances. While brownouts aren't as severe as blackouts, they can still cause disruptions, especially during Georgia’s hottest months. For tips on how to prepare for power outages, including stockpiling essential items, check out the Power Outage Preparedness Tips from Georgia Electric Membership Corporation . The Challenge of Summer Brownouts in Georgia Brownouts occur when the electrical grid becomes overloaded, and utility providers reduce the voltage temporarily to avoid a complete power failure. This is especially common during Georgia’s brutal heatwaves and thunderstorms, two weather events we see all too often in the summer. With the extreme heat, high humidity, and unpredictable storms, having reliable power becomes crucial for Georgia homeowners. Although a short power dip might seem minor, brownouts that last for hours can have serious consequences. Here’s why: 1. Health Risks for Pets and Babies The heat can be dangerous, particularly for pets and young children. Without air conditioning or fans, temperatures inside your home can rise quickly. Pets, especially those with thick fur, are at risk of heatstroke and dehydration. Babies, who have a harder time regulating their body temperature, are also vulnerable to overheating, which can lead to serious health issues. 2. Impact on Medical Devices For people who rely on powered medical devices like oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, or refrigerated medications, brownouts can be life-threatening. The high humidity in Georgia can make respiratory conditions worse, making it even more critical to maintain a steady power supply for medical needs. 3. Food Spoilage & Home Disruptions During a brownout, refrigerators and freezers may not run at full power, which can cause food to spoil more quickly. Perishable items like dairy, meat, and seafood can become unsafe to eat in just a few hours without consistent cooling. This can lead to wasted groceries and potential health risks if spoiled food is consumed. Investing in a backup generator can help keep your refrigerator running and prevent costly food loss during extended power disruptions. Preparing for Power Disruptions Year-Round Although summer brownouts are a common issue, power disruptions can also occur during other seasons. For example, winter blackouts in Georgia can bring dangerous cold temperatures and heating system problems. For more insights on preparing for power outages throughout the year, check out our blog on Generac Generator Maintenance: Keeping the Power On When It Matters Most to ensure you're ready for any unexpected disruptions. How to Prepare for Brownouts in Georgia The best way to protect your home from the effects of summer brownouts is to prepare in advance. One of the most effective solutions is investing in a generato r. Whether you choose a whole-home standby generator that automatically kicks in when power drops, or a portable generator to keep essential appliances running, having a backup power source can keep you out of the dark when the grid goes down. Here’s how you can be ready: Backup Generators: A whole-home generator is a reliable way to keep essential systems like air conditioning, refrigeration, and medical devices powered during brownouts. These generators automatically turn on when the power goes out, ensuring your home stays functional. Portable Generators: If a whole-home generator isn’t in your budget, a portable generator can still power critical appliances, like your fridge and AC, during a brownout. Energy Conservation: Being mindful of energy usage, like running appliances during off-peak hours or keeping blinds closed to block out heat, can help reduce stress on the power grid. Electrical Inspections & Repairs: It’s also a good idea to have an electrical inspection done to make sure your home’s wiring can handle the additional load. If there are any issues, electrical repairs can ensure your system is ready for whatever the summer brings. Stay Ahead of Summer Outages in Georgia Summer brownouts are a reality here in Georgia, but with the right preparation, you can minimize the impact on your home and family. Investing in a generator, practicing energy-saving habits, and scheduling an electrical inspection will help you stay cool, keep your loved ones safe, and avoid the frustration of power interruptions. Don’t wait until the next heatwave. Take action now to stay powered all summer long. Ready to Stay Powered All Summer? Don’t let summer brownouts disrupt your comfort or safety. For expert advice on generators, electrical inspections, and electrical repairs in Griffin, Newnan, Stockbridge, or nearby areas, Hammond Services here to help! We’ll ensure your home stays cool, secure, and fully operational, no matter what the weather brings. Contact us today to schedule your services and enjoy a worry-free, comfortable home this season!
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Winter blackouts, especially during ice storms, can bring life to a standstill, leaving families vulnerable to freezing temperatures and disrupted routines. Ice storms are particularly dangerous, as freezing rain can build up on power lines and trees, causing outages and hazardous conditions. Losing power for just 4 to 5 hours in these conditions can create serious challenges, especially for families with pets, babies, or individuals relying on medical devices. Impact on Those in the Home Pets are highly sensitive to temperature drops, particularly for smaller or short-haired breeds. Without heat, they may struggle to stay warm, risking illness. To prepare, keep extra blankets or bedding for them and consider portable, pet-safe heating options. Ensuring your pets remain comfortable during an outage is crucial for their health and safety. For babies, maintaining a warm environment is essential for their well-being. Without heat, dress them in layers and use portable heating pads. Having these preparations ready ensures your little one stays safe and comfortable during a power outage. For individuals who rely on medical devices, power outages can be a serious concern. Devices like oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines require uninterrupted power. Additionally, medications that need refrigeration must be protected. Backup power solutions, such as battery systems or whole home generators, can help avoid emergencies during extended outages. The Importance of Knowing Your Power Status Staying informed about your power status is a vital part of winter preparedness here in Georgia. Many utility companies offer apps and alerts that let you track outages, assess restoration times, and plan accordingly. This information helps you decide if relocating temporarily or relying on backup power is necessary. Generac Generators: A Reliable Solution Investing in a Generac generator is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your Austell, Griffin, Newnan, and Stockbridge home during winter outages. These generators provide continuous power, keeping heating systems, lights, and essential devices up and running. With a whole-home generator, you can maintain comfort and security for your family, pets, and medical needs, even during prolonged outages. Call Hammond Services today or fill out our contact form to explore backup power solutions like Generac generators, and keep your home safe, warm, and ready for any storm.
