Insulation Quick Tip

Attics can be great sources of heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Payback will vary depending on your region, but you'll usually recover the cost within two years.

Unplug Quick Tip

Check around the house to see if devices are unnecessarily plugged in. Cell phones, MP3 player chargers and appliances are still drawing power when not in use. Be aware that plasma TVs and entertainment systems are drawing power even when they are off.

What Can You Do?

Compact Flourescent Lights (CFLs) are 70% more effective than incandescent bulbs and about $2 a piece. The paycheck is a few months.

HVAC Quick Tip

Your heating and cooling system equipment runs best when properly maintained. Change your filters on a regular basis. Having your HVAC system serviced on an annual basis will ensure that your system is not costing you more than it should as well as increase the life of the system.

Thermostat Quick Tip

The average home will spend over $1,000 a year on heating and cooling. Programmable thermostats adjust the temperature in winter and in summer as well as during unoccupied hours. At a cost of $50 - $150 the payback can be seen in well under a year.

Air Infiltration Quick Tips

Air that transfers in and out of homes through cracks, crevices and holes can increase energy consumption. Here are some helpful tips to avoid air infiltration.

• Seal around pipe penetrations coming through walls.
• During hot and cold weather, ensure windows are closed tightly and locked.