According to the Energy Star program, you should add more insulation if the existing insulation is just level with or below the floor joists of your attic. If you cannot see any of the floor joists because the insulation is well above them, you probably have enough and adding more may not be cost-effective. In […]

• Check and maintain your insulation. Improperly insulated walls, floors, attics, basements and crawl spaces drain away heat and can encourage mold and mildew. • Add weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts which waste energy and money. • Install a programmable thermostat that shuts itself off during the day when […]

The same is true for houses. Today’s homeowners looking for ways to improve their home’s energy performance are increasingly choosing insulated siding — vinyl siding with rigid foam insulation that is laminated or permanently attached to the panel. Think of it as adding an extra layer to ward off the cold. Most exterior walls have […]

Space heaters can be an effective method of supplemental heat when the weather outside gets cold, but the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that space heaters can cause fires and lead to burns and, when using electrical heaters, may cause electrocution from faulty wiring. When operating a space heater, it is important to follow some […]

Space heaters, wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are among the more common and popular supplemental heating sources. The same heating sources that can be cost-effective and safe when used correctly can become hazardous when safety guidelines are not followed. The National Fire Prevention Association states that in 2010 heating equipment was involved in an estimated 57,100 […]

Homeowners who have not yet upgraded to a programmable thermostat could be doing themselves a significant disservice. Not only are programmable thermostats key to saving energy, they also save money. The Alliance for Environmental Sustainability note that for every degree they adjust their thermostats, homeowners save between 1 and 3 percent on their heating and […]

“Exterior caulk and insulation can provide a formidable defense against the cold,” said Debbie Zimmer, spokesperson for the Paint Quality Institute. “By using these products to seal cracks and openings in the home exterior, you can save a small fortune on heating cost, and on the cost of air-conditioning as well.” Caulk and insulation work […]

Sitting in front of your fireplace with a warm beverage surrounded by family and friends is one of the enduring images of winter in America. Fireplaces are a huge selling point for many homes, and keeping them in good working order can help add to the resale value of your home. There are several things […]