January Energy Tips

House Coats

Insulation provides an important barrier against both the cold of winter and the heat of summer. Improving attic insulation is one of the best energy-efficiency investments, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If your home has you shivering, there's another incentive to add more insulation. Here are some tips to consider:

• The effectiveness of insulation is measured in R-value per inch. It is recommended that a conventional ventilated attics have R-38 insulation.
• Consider factors such as your climate, building design, and budget when selecting insulation R-values for your home.
• Use higher-density insulation, such as rigid foam boards, in cathedral ceilings and on exterior walls.
• Ventilation plays a large role in providing moisture control and reducing summer cooling bills. Attic vents can be installed along the entire ceiling cavity to help ensure proper airflow from the soffit to the attic to make a home more comfortable and energy efficient. Check with a qualified contractor.
• Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss, but you need to be careful how close you place insulation next to a fixture unless it is marked IC - designed for direct insulation contact. Check your local building codes for recommendations.