HOW CAN I LOWER MY ENERGY COSTS?

This is one of the major concerns of the home buyer. Heating costs can account for up to 60% of the home’s energy consumption. The heat losses for a typical home are shown in the house model below.

The model shows that heat energy is lost in three major ways. Through the walls (35%), through the windows and doors (25%) and through the roof and floor (40%). We know that installing additional insulation in the walls is difficult and expensive. We also know that replacing the windows and doors is not only expensive but may not result in major energy savings. By comparison, installing additional insulation in the attic and floor is relatively easy and is not nearly as costly. It may, in fact, be the single most cost effective first step that a home buyer can take in reducing the home’s energy consumption.

HOUSEHOLD TIP:

Studies show that the most effective bug lights, those that attract the least insects, are the warm/soft color LED bulbs.