green|spaces is offering short workshops that will help residents learn low and no cost ways to reduce utility consumption and improve the health of their homes.
Officials said, "Due to social distancing, many people are now working and going to school from home. With increased time inside the house, the lights are on in more rooms for longer periods of time, and more appliances and electronics are being used. Although the mild temperatures have helped, people are still heating and cooling their homes more during the day. All of this additional activity uses more energy and can lead to unexpectedly high bills. While the local utilities at EPB, Chattanooga Gas & Tennessee American Water have placed holds on disconnect services and are working with customers on setting up payment plans, green|spaces has decided to offer these workshop."
Scheduled workshops include:
- April 2 at 10 a.m.;
- April 2 at 7 p.m.;
- April 7 at 11 a.m.; and
- April 9 at 7 p.m.
“Attendees will learn many important things. Among them include simple air sealing techniques that will save energy and improve air quality in your home. Other topics covered will include how to check and what temperature to set your water heater, how often to change your HVAC filter, and common myths that can lead to higher bills,” said Christian Shackelford, director of Empower.
The workshops are available remotely through video on a smart phone or computer or by phone. For links to join the virtual meetings, individuals can visit http://www.greenspaceschattanooga.org/calendar or call 423-648-0963 for call-in information.
Workshops will continue to be scheduled while social distancing is encouraged. Social Groups, Neighborhood Associations or Civic Groups interested in having green|spaces host a meeting for their particular group can contact Christian Shackelford at christian@greenspaceschattanooga.org.
green|spaces has also created Amazon shopping lists for attendees to purchase some of the efficiency items that will be reviewed during the workshop either in advance or after the call. Basic supplies like outlet insulators, caulk, LED light bulbs and filters can be delivered directly to the home.