Dear Jim: Our house has its original single-pane ­windows, and we always feel chilly near them. I got quotes on ­having them replaced, but I can’t afford it now. What can I do in the meantime to improve the efficiency of the old windows?-Pete N.   Dear Pete: I’m not surprised to hear you feel [...]

Because heat pumps are the most efficient electric heating and cooling technology, they are an excellent choice if your home needs a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrade. While electric resistance heaters are about 100 percent efficient, meaning all the electricity that goes into it is used to generate heat, heat pumps can claim [...]

After maintaining a steady pace for a century, lighting technology has begun to leap forward, fueled by tightening energy efficiency standards and hefty incentives for ­manufacturers. And despite a bit of price shock on some lighting ­products, co-op members-especially large commercial and industrial accounts-are working with their local, not-for-profit, consumer-owned power providers to see if [...]

Different people have different ways of worshiping. Some share scripture, raise their hands, sing, pray, dance in praise, meditate. Some fellowship together over a meal, sometimes a potluck, sometimes the Lord’s Supper. Some go to a church building, a temple, a mosque, sit by a lake or in a tree-stand. And those who deliver the [...]

To get more ideas and accurate information on energy-saving ideas, go to www.togetherwesave.com. The Energy-Savings Home Tour gives members information on landscaping for efficiency, and interior and exterior home tips to save money on your electric bill.

By Cindy Ladage February is the time of year when utility bills seem to be the highest and as you gaze at your energy consumption you begin to think, how can I reduce my bill? The light bulb goes on and the word “energy audit” comes to mind. While this is something I always say [...]

The year 2012 is showing improvement in home sales over 2011, a positive for prospective home sellers. The first two months, according to records provided by the Illinois Association of Realtors (IAR), indicate increased sales of 16.1 percent in January and 25.4 percent in February which included Leap Day. At the time of publication, sales [...]

Asking contractors important questions makes all the difference, according to Roger Weymouth, broker/owner of Weymouth & Associates in Holt, MI, with 20 years of experience in the real estate industry. “Regarding the best questions to ask, I would say, ‘as many as you can think of,’” he says. For instance: Are you licensed and insured? [...]

For many of you, your electric cooperative – or those they associate with in the heating and cooling industry – are your friends at the fair, too. You can generally find them in the vendor area, standing ready to meet and answer your questions. They can provide you with energy saving information to help you [...]