10 WAYS TO CUT YOUR ENERGY BILL

· One of the easiest ways to cut your heating and cooling bill is to make sure that your attic has 7 inches (R-22) or more (up to R-49) of fiber glass or rock wool insulation.

· A simple step we often ignore-replace or clean your AC vents once a month.

· Don't leave your bathroom ventilator running longer than necessary, as it can drain your entire house of cooled or heated air in about an hour!

· During the summer keep your drapes closed in the heat of the day. In the winter keep the south facing window drapes open.

· Make sure all windows are caulked and weather-stripped to save 10% off your H/AC bill.

· White window shades or blinds will deflect the heat away from your house.

· Lower hot water costs by installing low-flow shower heads and faucets.

· Insulate your water heater and set its thermostat at 115o F.

· You can cut up to 50% off your lighting costs by replacing 25% of the bulbs in your main-use areas with fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lights are more expensive but also last 6-10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

Patrick Dardis is a Realtor working for Royal LePage True North Realty in Fort McMurray, my personal web site is www.McMurraysBestHomes.com