Source: McClatchy/Tribune
Publication date: May 18, 2009
Consumer concern over energy may have eased a bit with the fall in oil prices late last year, but cutting back on energy consumption is still a big priority. The good news is that many home energy-saving strategies are really easy to pull off. What's more, the ones that are pricey and/or labor-intensive are typically the ones that pay off the most in the long haul _ and make you feel like a responsible citizen. A few ideas to get you going from Woman's Day Specials Remodeling & Makeovers:
Replace windows : If your windows put just one sheet of glass between you and the outside, you should replace them. Double-glazed windows typically feature a low-emissivity (low-E) coating, and the gap between the sheets of glass is filled with an insulating gas (usually argon). These windows mitigate heat loss in cold weather, and depending on the region of the country, they usher in or ward off the sun's heat. If you have a double-glazed window and you see condensation between the glass, it means the seal has broken and you should replace that window.
Check the seal: Exterior air leaks _ around windows, doors, ventilation fans, etc. _ can force heating and air conditioning systems to work harder, using more energy. A home-energy audit performed by a professional technician can spot these air leaks, along with areas of inadequate insulation.
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