|
| |
|
Energy Efficiency and Insulation |
Insulation is one
of the most important ways to save energy in your home. According to
the Department of Energy, 50% to 70% of the energy used in the
average American home goes toward heating and cooling. Property
installed insulation keeps your house more comfortable, saves energy
and money, and cuts down on noise from outside.
The
U.S. Dept. of Energy
says you should consider insulating your
home if
• You are uncomfortably cold in the winter or hot during the summer.
Adding insulation can create a more uniform temperature inside your
house.
• Your energy bills are high. Typically, more than half your energy
costs are for heating and cooling your home. By adding insulation,
you can lower your energy bills. In a nationwide survey of building
improvements, adding ceiling insulation reduced heating bills by 10
to 20 percent.
• You are building an addition, or installing new siding or roofing.
It's easier and cheaper to install insulation now than to add it
later.
• You have an older home and haven't added insulation. In a recent
survey, only 20% of homes built before 1980 were well insulated.
• You are bothered by noise from outside. Insulation can help to
muffle sounds from outdoors.
Here are some websites you find helpful:
The
EPA website provides useful information on insulating your home,
including industry associations,
facts sheets,
and frequently asked questions about insulation.
The
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network (EREN)
section of the Department of Energy offers consumer advice based on
your zip code.
The
Alliance to Save Energy tells you how you can get
financing for energy efficiency improvements.
The
Home Energy Saver
website (sponsored by the EPA and the
DOE) shows you how much you can reduce your energy bills by
incorporating their energy efficiency suggestions, specific to your
zip |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
