November Energy Tips

Prioritizing Home Efficiency Improvements

By Chris Dorsi

Homeowners across America are struggling to meet the increasing cost of utilities. The best way to lower your energy consumption is to improve the efficiency of your home. But what should you do first?

Your choice of energy improvement projects should be based upon the type and condition of your home. Consider these questions as you craft a personal energy plan:

What is the condition of the exterior of your home? Repair any broken windows, loose siding, or missing trim before you do anything else. You’ll spend extra money on energy each month if outdoor air is whistling through your home. Don’t worry about caulking small holes and cracks.
How much insulation do you have in your attic? Attic insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer. More insulation is always better – install at least 10 to 12 inches (R-30) in temperate climates, and 15 to 20 inches (R-50) in cold climates.
Has your furnace or air conditioner been serviced lately? These hard-working appliances are the largest consumers of energy in most homes. Periodic service can improve their efficiency and extend their lifespans. If you hire a professional technician, ask about simple maintenance tasks you can perform yourself.
How many old-fashioned incandescent lights do you have? These traditional bulbs use three times more electricity than modern compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Buy and install CFLs in any light fixtures you use more than a few hours a day.
How old is your refrigerator? The newest refrigerators take advantage of technology that cuts their consumption to one-quarter that of older units. Shop for an ENERGY STAR© rated refrigerator to get the most efficient models. Buy a smaller refrigerator than you currently have for added savings.

Chris Dorsi is a nationally recognized energy expert for Saturn Resource Management, Inc. For more free energy-saving tips, visit the Saturn website at www.srmi.biz.