Energy Efficiency and Insulation

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At home, at work, or in the community, saving energy is becoming an important topic, because of economic factors and because of concerns about the environment. Buildings that incorporate energy efficiency technologies are typically more comfortable, have lower utility bills, and have minimal impact on the environment.

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 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 code.

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