Homeowners in Southern California face a unique set of challenges due to the area's warm climate, energy concerns, and the ever-present threat of wildfires. However, there is a dual-purpose solution that addresses both energy efficiency and fire mitigation: electrifying homes.
By transitioning away from fossil fuels and adopting electric technologies, you can not only reduce energy costs but also contribute to creating safer environments in fire-prone areas.
In this blog, we'll explore how Burgeson’s can best electrify your home alongside ways to help you save money doing it:
- Top ways to electrify your home
- Fire mitigation strategies
- Incentives and rebates
We’ll also explore indoor air quality solutions to help you breathe easier during fire season.
Ready to electrify your home? Burgeson’s is here to help!
Are you tired of rising energy bills and concerned about the environmental impact of your home's energy consumption? There’s no better time to electrify your home and start saving on energy. Contact Burgeson’s today for expert advice on the best solar panels, backup batteries, electric heat pump systems, EV charging power upgrades, and more. We can even help you source and apply for rebates that make electrification upgrades even more affordable.
Call us at (909) 792-2222 or click below to request an estimate and see why we’re a top-rated contractor in the Inland Empire and beyond. All new installation estimates are free, and we back up our work with an uncompromising commitment to satisfaction.
Top Ways to Electrify Your Home
Solar Panels and Backup Batteries
Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, which can power your home's appliances and lighting. Any excess energy generated during sunny periods can be stored in a solar backup battery for later use, ensuring a consistent power supply even during cloudy days or at night. This not only reduces your reliance on the grid but also allows you to take advantage of net metering programs, potentially earning you credits for surplus energy fed back into the grid.
Have questions or want pricing info? Visit our whole-home battery FAQs page or contact Burgeson’s for a FREE in-home estimate. We’re a premier solar installation company throughout the Inland Empire, and we can also help you save money through tax credits!
Heat Pumps
Installing a heat pump can significantly reduce your energy costs. By harnessing the ambient warmth present in the air or ground, heat pumps provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems that rely on fossil fuels. During colder months, heat pumps extract heat from the outside air and efficiently transfer it indoors, while in warmer seasons, they reverse the process to cool your home. This versatility ensures year-round comfort and translates to substantial savings on energy bills.
Heat pump water heaters are renowned for their energy efficiency, capable of using electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it directly. This efficiency translates into significant cost savings, as they can be two to three times more energy-efficient than traditional electric resistance water heaters, leading to lower electricity bills. Environmentally, they are a more sustainable choice, thanks to their reduced electricity usage and smaller carbon footprint. These heaters are also known for their longevity and reliability, often outlasting conventional water heaters. Another notable benefit is their eligibility for rebates and tax incentives in some regions, making them an economically attractive option for eco-conscious homeowners.
Get a free heat pump estimate from Burgeson’s by calling (909) 792-2222 or requesting a quote through our website.
Energy Star Electric Appliances
Energy Star appliances have been meticulously designed to consume less electricity while maintaining superior performance. This translates into direct energy savings for your household. All the more so if you have solar panels installed, and can harness the full potential of the sun’s energy. Make sure to check out Southern California Edison’s Energy Savings Assistance Program for information about rebates on electric appliances.
EV Chargers
Southern California Edison offers rebates for electric vehicle purchases (both new and used). Additionally, they offer discounted rates for homeowners that drive electric vehicles. Check out their TOU (time of use) PRIME page for more information.
Burgeson’s is one of the most trusted installers of fast-charging EV chargers. Request a free estimate through our website or call us at (909) 792-2222 to get pricing details and knowledgeable advice. We also offer electrical inspections to verify the integrity of your home’s wiring.
Fire Mitigation Strategies
Southern California is prone to wildfires due to its dry climate, frequent Santa Ana winds, and flammable vegetation. Here are some proactive steps you can take to mitigate the risk of wildfires and fire damage to your home:
- Fire-resistant building materials: Consider using fire-resistant building materials for roofing, siding, and decks. This can help reduce your home's vulnerability to ember attacks during wildfires.
- Roof and gutter maintenance: Clean your roof and gutters regularly to remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris that could serve as fuel for a fire.
- Reduce flammable vegetation: Maintain a defensible space around your home by trimming trees, clearing dead vegetation, and creating a buffer zone that reduces the chance of fire spread.
- Ember-resistant vents: Install ember-resistant vents in your attic and crawl spaces to prevent embers from entering and igniting your home from within.
- Keep your dryer vent clean: Over time, lint, dust, and debris can accumulate within dryer vents, obstructing the airflow and creating a potential fire hazard. As the dryer heats up during its cycles, this built-up lint becomes highly flammable and can ignite, leading to a dangerous and rapidly spreading fire. By scheduling routine dryer vent cleanings, you can ensure that these vents remain clear and free from lint buildup.
Fire Mitigation Incentives and Rebates
Many Southern California homeowners appreciate the need for fire mitigation, but they’re probably concerned with the cost that comes along with it. Well, we’ve got some good news: the state of California is offering some financial assistance.
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)
Overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission, the SGIP initiative aims to encourage California homeowners to adopt “self-generation” technologies such as battery storage systems, which will provide power during an outage. According to their website, the CPUC has authorized funding of more than $1 billion through 2024.
Rebates are currently available to electric and/or gas customers of Southern California Edison who live in a fire zone. If you qualify, you could receive up to $26,400 in home battery rebates!
Even better, Burgeson’s can help you navigate the rebate application process! Contact our experts today for information about installing a backup battery for your home. We’ll assess your home’s size and power needs and then provide upfront pricing– including how much you could save with the SGIP rebate.
California Wildfire Mitigation Program
In addition to the SGIP, California's Wildfire Mitigation Program is providing direct grants for low and moderate-income homeowners who live in high-risk wildfire zones. The funds are intended to support mitigation efforts like the ones we described above (fire-resistant building materials, ember-resistant vents, etc.).
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Solutions
Indoor air quality improvement is a must in Southern California, where wildfires bring smoky air that’s hazardous to breathe. Solutions like air purifiers and HEPA filters keep indoor spaces free from pollutants found in smoke.
At Burgeson’s, we offer a wide range of IAQ products and services to help eliminate harmful smoke particles, allergens, viruses, bacteria, mold, and more from your home's air. Request an appointment online to learn more about how these products work, which ones are right for your home, as well as upfront pricing information.
Protect against rising energy costs and fire-related power outages with help from Burgeson’s.
Amidst rising SCE rates and seasonal wildfires, the time to electrify is now. To learn about the best electrification options for your home, call Burgeson’s knowledgeable professionals at (909) 792-2222 or click to request an appointment below. We offer free estimates on all new installations, rebate assistance, easy financing options, and great deals on products from industry-leading brands. Rest assured, we’ll help you improve your home’s energy efficiency to save money on bills and stay powered during outages.
