NRG Protects Energy Saving Tips Checklist

man sitting on couch

man sitting on couch

man sitting on couch

Our checklist makes saving energy (and money) easy.

When the heat rises, keep a cool head. Use our helpful checklist to maximize the energy efficiency of your home and lower your energy usage.

Heating & Cooling System

1. Replace the air filter.

One of the easiest and most important things you can do for your HVAC system is to replace the air filter every three months (or more often if you have pets or allergies). An old or dirty filter will force the HVAC fan motor to work harder, which zaps its energy and shortens its lifespan. An annual inspection by a trained professional is also recommended. Our heating & cooling maintenance plans cover the cost of an annual inspection and more.

Water heater

2. Perform a drain and flush.

Even in warmer months, you still need hot water in your home. Your water heater is especially important to maintain considering its high cost to replace and operate. Make sure you perform an annual drain and flush to avoid sediment accumulation in the tank. Any buildup can cause inefficiency and even lead to premature failure.

3. Check the temperature

Be sure to check the temperature settings of your water heater. Most plumbers recommend you set your heater no higher than 120° F. Anything higher can cause dangerously scalding water and can also lead to a spike in your energy bills. If you’d prefer to hire a professional to inspect your plumbing and water heater, we have a protection plan for that!

Refrigerator and freezer

4. Wipe the fridge coils.

When you think of cleaning out the fridge, you probably think of either eating all the food or wiping down the shelves. However, we encourage you to wipe down your refrigerator's coils on a regular basis. Located on the underside or back of the fridge, vacuum these coils for dirt, dust, and other residue at least once a year to increase efficiency of your fridge and extend its lifespan.

5. Clean the freezer.

If your freezer has more than a small buildup of frost, it is really time to clean! Never use sharp tools to scrape off frost, as this may cause damage - instead use a baking soda and water solution. Also, be sure that anyone using the freezer knows that the lid should be kept shut tightly to maintain freezing efficiency. Worried about future appliance breakdowns? We have repair and maintenance plans that cover that!

Washer and dryer

6. Check for leaks.

Check the hoses of both appliances for leaks or cracks. Be especially sure to inspect the vent pipe from your dryer - clean it for lint and dust annually to help it run smoother and prevent fires. Not the DIY type? You can also invest in a plan to cover washer and dryer breakdowns and service visit calls.

The house

7. Get an audit

To enhance the efficiency of your home, consider hiring a professional energy auditor. This energy professional can accurately assess your home and make specific recommendations to lower your energy bills.

From heating and cooling to plumbing and appliance maintenance, NRG Protects has you covered. Stay on top of efficiency problems with one of our Protection Plans.

Terms and conditions contained in the protection plans may limit our contract obligations due to coverage caps, coverage exclusions, and our cash back offer. View plan details for more information.

Terms, conditions, and other restrictions

*Repair claims are limited to $500 per service call and $2,000 per plan in the aggregate per plan term. Plans are provided by NRG Protects Inc. Independent contractors will be performing various services under the plans. In some instances we may make a cash payment in lieu of repairs or replacement in the amount of actual cost, which may be less than retail, to repair or replace any covered system, component, or appliance.

**If your authorized repair technician determines that the water heater is deemed irreparable, we will give you a credit of $500 towards a replacement water heater by your authorized repair technician.

Once repair plans commence, there is a 30-day waiting period before you may request services for a claim. Unless the plan provider elects not to renew the plan, upon expiration of the first year, the plan will automatically renew at the standard rate and terms unless you opt out of the auto-renewal option in writing by mail at P.O. Box 2309, Houston, TX 77252- 2309, by email at cancel@nrgprotects.com or by calling us at 1.855.241.9094. Sales tax will be added in select states.

This is a summary of what the provider will and will not cover under the plan, and is subject to the Terms and Conditions of the plan. The Terms and Conditions may limit the provider's contractual obligations due to coverage caps, coverage exclusions and any cash-back option available under the plan. Please refer to the Sample Terms & Conditions for details.