Due to recent increases in gas, food and home energy costs, efficiency has become a major concern for many homeowners. In addition, homeowners are demanding products that help them become more environmentally responsible.  Homeowners can protect both their pocketbook and the environment by ensuring they have proper insulation in their homes.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 30% on heating and cooling costs with sufficient insulation, which, for the average homeowner, equates to more than $500 a year.  Consider the following energy-responsible and wallet-friendly actions:

Conduct a home energy audit. An auditor can pinpoint areas where your home loses valuable energy and can suggest ways to conserve hot water and electricity.

Check for leaks. Cracks and openings near windows and doors make home heating and cooling systems work harder to regulate indoor temperatures. Spray foam insulation, which creates an air seal and provides outstanding comfort and indoor air quality by hindering moisture and outdoor allergens.

Seal and insulate. For the most cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency and comfort, ?Energy Star? recommends sealing and insulating the shell of your home, including its outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors and floors.

Maximize efficiency throughout the home. Although 56 % of the average home?s energy costs go toward heating and cooling, homeowners can do a number of things on a daily basis to reduce their home?s total carbon footprint, such as using compact florescent light bulbs, purchasing Energy Star appliances and unplugging chargers and electronics when they?re not in use.