Over the past several years, lighting options and the way they are measured have changed as part of the movement toward energy efficiency. Traditional incandescent bulbs are no longer manufactured and are quickly becoming a nostalgic thing of the past! They’ve been replaced by more efficient lighting options including: halogen incandescent, compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. These energy-saving options offer choices of light levels, sizes, shapes, and colors. Which option is best will depend on the purpose and location of the lighting, as well as personal preference. Here’s what you need to know to make the right selection for each space in your home:

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As seasonal temperatures heat up, utility bills will also inch up as homeowners try to beat the heat. What can you do to prepare your home for the hot summer months and minimize the cost of keeping indoor spaces comfortable? A “do-it-yourself” (DIY) home energy audit can be a good starting point to help determine what areas to prioritize for energy efficient repairs and upgrades. By following the simple steps below, you can uncover the most obvious spots where your home is losing energy and where you may have opportunities to improve your home’s performance.

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It’s no secret that an energy efficient home costs less to operate. But, the up-front costs of major upgrades can be daunting. We set out to find options for small enhancements on a small budget that can make a difference. Here is a short list of DIY projects homeowners can easily take on to improve home performance, conserve energy, and lower the cost of utilities.

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