Watt’s Next: Your Guide to Home Electrification

Are you looking to make your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, and future-ready? More and more California residents are upgrading their homes with smarter, cleaner technologies, and it all starts with electrification.

Electrification means replacing appliances and systems that run on fossil fuels (like natural gas) with high-efficiency electric alternatives. Whether your goal is to reduce utility bills, modernize household systems, or transition toward cleaner energy use, there are more tools, incentives, and support than ever to help make the switch—one step at a time.

What Does Electrification Look Like at Home?

Electrification can take many forms, depending on a home’s age, layout, and needs. Here is a quick snapshot of some common and emerging upgrades:

1. Heat Pump Water Heaters: Ultra-efficient systems that use heat from the surrounding air to warm water, cutting energy use by up to 70% compared to traditional electric or gas water heaters.
2. HVAC Heat Pumps: A single system that provides both heating and cooling, operating efficiently throughout the year.
3. Heat Pump Clothes Dryers: Ventless dryers that use lower temperatures to dry clothes gently while using less electricity.
4. Smart Thermostats: Programmable, Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats that learn user preferences and reduce energy waste.
5. LED Lighting: Long-lasting, low-energy lighting solutions available in a wide variety of styles.
6. Whole House Fans and Radiant Barriers: Improve natural ventilation and reduce the need for air conditioning.
7. Air Sealing and Insulation (Ceiling and Walls): Maintain indoor comfort by reducing heat loss and gain through improved sealing and insulation.
8. High-Performance Windows: Reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.
9. Solar and Battery Storage: Provide greater energy independence, backup power, and reduced reliance on the grid.
10. Electric Panel Upgrades: Ensure electrical capacity is sufficient to support new electric appliances and systems.
11. Induction Cooktops: A fast, precise, and safe alternative to gas cooking that also simplifies cleaning.
12. Electric Fireplaces: Add ambiance and warmth without the emissions of wood or gas-burning models.
13. Electric Lawn Equipment: Cleaner, quieter alternatives to gas-powered tools.
14. EV Chargers: Convenient, at-home charging options for electric vehicles.

Why Make the Switch?

Electrification can be approached in phases. Many households begin with smaller changes—such as installing a smart thermostat or switching to LED lighting—before moving on to more substantial upgrades like installing heat pumps or solar systems. Each step enhances home performance and comfort while helping reduce long-term energy costs.

Not ready for a major upgrade? Start small by checking out a DIY home energy efficiency kit—available for free at both Thousand Oaks Library locations. Each kit includes user-friendly tools like thermal leak detectors and energy monitors to help identify simple energy-saving opportunities at home while providing consumables such as LED bulbs and low-flow showerheads to make small upgrades instantly.

When paired with renewable electricity sources, electrification can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

Common Questions About Electrification

As with any home improvement, questions may arise. Below are some common concerns along with helpful responses:

1. “Isn’t it really expensive to electrify a home?” - Upfront costs vary, but generous rebates, tax credits, and incentives are available to offset expenses. Efficient electric appliances can also lower ongoing utility costs.
2. “Do heat pumps work in cold weather?” - Yes. Modern heat pumps are designed to perform well even in colder conditions. In Southern California's mild climate, they are especially effective and efficient.
3. “Is a panel upgrade always required?” - Not always. Smaller upgrades typically don’t require a panel change. Larger projects may require an assessment to determine if an upgrade is needed to meet electrical demand.
4. “Is electric cooking as good as gas?” - Induction cooktops offer fast, precise temperature control and enhanced safety. Many professional chefs are adopting induction for its performance and ease of use.
5. “Does electrification really make a difference?” - Yes. Shifting from gas to electricity—especially when powered by renewables—reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier community.
6. “Is it difficult to get started?” - Not at all. Homeowners can begin with small steps. Resources like the Switch Is On incentive finder and 3C-REN contractor directory provide guidance and support.

Get Help Making the Switch

Several trusted programs are available to assist residents:

1. Switch Is On – A one-stop platform to explore rebates and tax incentives, including those offered through SCE, TECH Clean California, federal programs, and more.
2. 3C-REN Contractor Directory – A vetted list of contractors experienced in energy efficiency and electrification.
3. Clean Power Alliance – Offers rebates and incentives for solar and battery storage.

What’s Next in “Watt’s Next”?

This post is just the beginning. Future installments of the Watt’s Next series will explore many of the technologies mentioned above in more detail—explaining how they work, how to get started, and what to expect during installation. Real-world examples and additional resources will also be shared to help simplify the journey toward an all-electric home.

Stay tuned for more ways to power homes for a cleaner, smarter future.