Free home energy checkups help PNM customers save money

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

PNM is offering free home energy checkups to help customers find ways to use energy more efficiently and reduce their electric bills, with both in-person and virtual options available.

The process begins with a visit from a PNM energy ambassador, such as Anthony Altamirano, who conducts the checkups.

“We’ll walk around the home together, look at doors, windows, heating, cooling, appliances, anything that affects energy use,” Altamirano said, explaining the process.

During a recent checkup, Altamirano inspected appliances, such as a refrigerator manufactured in 2014, and examined areas where air could be escaping, including older windows and weather stripping. “We’re just looking at the weather stripping, which it is starting to crack right here. You can see the cracking,” he said.

The checkups also include small fixes on the spot, such as replacing weather stripping and swapping out older light bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. Altamirano shared additional tips for saving energy, including re-caulking windows when cracks appear, replacing air filters regularly, and turning off lights when leaving a room.

From re-caulking your windows when you start to notice cracks, to keeping up with replacing your air filters, and even something as simple as turning off the lights when you leave a room, these are all small things you can do yourself that can help cut down on energy use and make a difference over time.

Other suggestions include using thick curtains or blinds to block sunlight and keeping freezers full to reduce energy use. With the recent rain and cooler weather, Eric Chavez, PNM Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of seasonal checkups. “Making sure what you want to be in the house stays there and what you want to stay outside of the house stays there. So it’s a great opportunity. While we’re grateful for the rain and the cooler weather that it brings, it’s a good opportunity to think about these things,” he said.

After the checkup, customers receive a report with recommendations and information about potential rebates. “We offer these year-round and encourage customers to do it when they feel it’s appropriate for them and when it’s a good time for them,” Chavez said.

Sign up link: https://www.pnm.com/iw/checkup