{"id":799876,"date":"2019-09-28T11:00:03","date_gmt":"2019-09-28T17:00:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.summitdaily.com\/?p=372186"},"modified":"2019-09-28T11:00:03","modified_gmt":"2019-09-28T17:00:03","slug":"ask-eartha-its-time-to-think-about-wintertime-energy-use","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysmountaintime.com\/ksmt\/local-news\/ask-eartha-its-time-to-think-about-wintertime-energy-use\/","title":{"rendered":"Ask Eartha: It\u2019s time to think about wintertime energy use"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Energy-efficiency assessors from the High Country Conservation Center perform home energy assessments, which include a full infrared scan of a home to identify drafts and insulation issues.<\/strong>
Courtesy photo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

Dear Eartha,<\/em><\/p>\n

I spent so much money last winter to heat my home, and I still felt cold. Is there anything I can do so my house stays warm and my bills stay low?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014 Don, Summit Cove<\/em><\/p>\n

When the first dusting of snow appears on the peaks of the Tenmile Range, it not only announces a change in seasons, but also a change in my inbox. Suddenly, locals are eager to find out how to best prepare their homes for winter. Luckily, yours truly knows a thing or two about energy efficiency, and I\u2019m happy to share my knowledge with you.<\/p>\n

An efficient and cozy mountain home<\/strong><\/p>\n

It\u2019s a universal truth that we want to feel comfortable in our homes. And for those who don\u2019t \u2014 whether it\u2019s too cold or drafty \u2014 it can be hard to know where to start. You might not realize that you can actually do something to fix the situation. And more often than not, the friends and neighbors I chat with think improving their home\u2019s efficiency means expensive upgrades to mechanical systems or windows. Fear not, energy conservation and comfort are pursuits that should never begin with these pricy fixes. Instead, the energy pros that I know like to focus on the simple and affordable projects we call the low-hanging fruit.<\/p>\n

What are some common low-hanging fruit projects? Finding and sealing air leaks \u2014 places where the warm indoor air escapes outside \u2014 is a common one. All those tiny gaps and cracks add up. I\u2019ve heard of homes so leaky that the leaks alone accounted for 40% of the homeowner\u2019s energy bill. More easy fixes include properly using a programmable thermostat and installing LED bulbs. After you\u2019ve tackled these projects, then you\u2019ll want to consider insulation improvements and, potentially, new appliances or mechanical systems. Finally, after you\u2019ve done everything else to make your home efficient, then you can consider windows, doors and renewable energy. If you think of home energy efficiency like a pyramid, these projects are at the very top because you need a solid foundation for them to rest uon. After all, what\u2019s the point of putting solar panels on an inefficient house?<\/p>\n

Evaluating your home\u2019s efficiency<\/strong><\/p>\n

But how will you know what your home needs? With a home energy assessment, of course. When you sign up for an assessment, a certified building scientist will inspect your home for energy performance and potential safety concerns. Afterward, you\u2019ll get a report that outlines all the steps you can take to maximize efficiency.<\/p>\n

If you think your home could benefit from an assessment, check out the Energy Smart Colorado program offered by the High Country Conservation Center. To encourage you and other Summit County locals to be more efficient, the Conservation Center subsidizes the cost of these assessments. Most people pay just $99 after rebates, and you\u2019ll also get freebies like LED bulbs. Getting the assessment qualifies you for even more rebates from the Conservation Center and Xcel Energy once you start making improvements. Some residents are eligible to receive free energy assessment and improvement work, so it\u2019s worth calling to learn more. Don\u2019t forget, energy efficiency at home doesn\u2019t just impact your wallet. There are a number of added benefits, like creating a healthier indoor environment and making your home more durable.<\/p>\n

Do it yourself<\/strong><\/p>\n

For the DIYers out there, here are a few simple projects to get you started:<\/p>\n