Are you concerned about increasing energy costs? Who isn’t! But, there is something you can do about it.

Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Efficient central air conditioners may make all the difference in the world. Some states or provinces have programs where you can claim a rebate for an old one when installing a more energy efficient A/C system into your home.
- Better control systems that improve the humidity and/or temperature control.
- Controls mold and mildew
- Far easier to maintain
- ENERGY STAR® label - outdoor condensing unit greatly reduced noise level.
- High-efficiency units
- More visually attractive
- Operates more quietly
- Reduces humidity
- Reduces energy consumption

A well-insulated ceiling
- Adds comfort
- Minimizes outdoor noise
- Deals well with seasonal and extreme weather conditions, threats and challenges
- Fire-safety contributions
- Helps minimize uncomfortable drafts
- Lowers the risk of frozen water pipes
- Decreases heat loss through structure
- Minimizes moisture-related problems, issues and concerns, even damage (outdoor and indoor)
- Decrease the chance of ice forming in attics or "ice dams" on top of the roof – minimizes roof damage

A crawlspace has to be well-designed, in good condition and not contributing to any discomfort, added cost or energy waste
- Comfort
- Reduces uncomfortable drafts
- Blocks noise and fights moisture
- Watch out for un-insulated, leaky or poorly-installed crawlspace wall insulation
- Pipes will not freeze if well insulated and not exposed (especially in unheated areas)

Here are a few reality, process and progress checks for you to ask YOURSELF as you set out or continue on your efficiency quest for your home and hearth!
- You have the desire and motivation
- A good idea and concept of what to do
- Need and incentive (saving and conservation of energy and dollars, added efficiency and comfort)
- Ideas, recommendations of getting it into place, capitalizing and optimizing it to your advantage.
A PLAN TO GET IT DONE and sustain the savings!

Doing your own tiling work is another great way to save money. Learn more on how to lay tile in this article.
Installing tile