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DEP Says Home Energy Audits Can Help Consumers Reduce Winter Heating Bills
December 1, 2009As colder weather arrives and as electric rates for many consumers are expected to rise by as much as 30 percent next year, help is available for Pennsylvanians who are trying to stay warm this winter. The state's Turn Down, Seal Off, Save Up initiative offers energy conservation tips and resources for getting financial help with utility bills. "Heating costs consume a major portion of any household budget, and poor energy efficiency robs your home of warmth and takes money out of your pocket," said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger. "Many of our residents will struggle this winter trying to stay warm. A home energy audit can find ways to make our homes warmer and, by using less energy, produce significant dollar savings." An energy audit evaluates a home's energy use. It calculates how much energy is used, how efficiently it is used, and suggests ways to make a home more energy efficient. An audit can reveal potential savings totaling hundreds of dollars. Homeowners can perform a simple energy audit themselves or they can hire a trained professional to do a more thorough evaluation. Full release.