energy
Insulation epidemic
Experts say 60 million American homes are underinsulated, and that lack of insulation is costing American homeowners about $8.2 billion a year. If all underinsulated homes were brought up to the Department of Energy’s standards, the savings would add up to the energy equivalent of 103 million barrels of oil a year, according to Owens Corning. Other ways to reduce a home’s energy footprint include:
Installing a programmable thermostat. By regulating the temperature, homeowners can save about 10 percent on annual heating and cooling costs.
Closing the shades, especially on windows facing the south and west.
Plugging drafts. Sealing the envelope of the home is the first line of defense against drafts.
Using fans. They use less energy than air conditioning.
Taking a home energy audit.
For an easy home energy audit, check out the Home Report Card quiz at owenscorn
.
time
Keeping kids busy
Mid-July is about the time when some kids start to feel bored with summer vacation. Vielka McFarlane is a longtime educator and founder of the Celerity Education Group. She suggests summer activities that stimulate kids’ bodies and minds. Her six top summertime kid activities are: building something from scratch like a kite or birdhouse; cooking; playing chess or Scrabble; art; writing; and touring local attractions and historic sites.
