As the US Energy Department says we'll be spending hundreds more to heat our homes this winter, it's time to conserve.
High energy costs, energy consumption and the approaching winter have residents concerned about winter heating bills. Sue Hanson, single family homes Program Manager with Focus on Energy, suggests you call a local home performance consultant.
"They've been trained. They know how to look for all the leaks and cracks, wherever air gaps might be in somebody's home."
Hanson says you'd be surprised at how much money you could save with simple caulking, weather-stripping, insulation and a programmable thermostat.
"I think some people certainly might be surprised about how much money they could save in their home. It all depends on the age of your home, when it was built, the type of structure."
Meanwhile, Hanson says it's important to look for the Energy Star label for energy-efficiency on new appliances; items from light bulbs to clothes dryers. Now is the time to start thinking about your heating bills.
"Our consultants do tend to get busy as the winter months roll on and people receive more of those high utility bills. So think now about your winter heating season, give them a call now to get things scheduled and get your home more energy-efficient."
Go to FocusOnEnergy .com or call 1-800-762-7077 to find a consultant near you, ranging in cost from $250-to-$500. The US Energy Department says an average Midwest homeowner could pay over 21-percent more than last year for heat this fall-and-winter.
High energy bills have a lot to do with air leaks and insufficient insulation. Tips:
- 1. Add Insulation.
- 2. Air Sealing.
- 3. System Maintenance.
- 4. Replace Outdated Heating Systems.
- 5. Programmable Thermostats.
- 6. Call Focus on Energy.
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