Energy Solutions

Dear Pat and Brad: Last year brought financial hardships, and with a new year ahead, I’m looking for new ways to save money. I know there are things I can do to save energy at home and lower my monthly bills. Can you share a few ideas on how to start the year off right […]

Dear Pat and Brad: I’m convinced we could reduce our high heating bills if we add more insulation to our attic. How do I make sure everything’s done right? – Kelly Dear Kelly: It’s great that you’re focused on your attic, as this is often the area you can get the most bang for your buck […]

Dear Pat and Brad: I read your column a few months ago on sealing air leaks, but I’ve heard a home that’s sealed too tight can lead to air quality issues. How can I be sure I have healthy air as I seal air leaks in my home? – Lee Dear Lee: Sealing air leaks is […]

Dear Pat and Brad: I’ve heard that energy can be lost through my home’s basement. Is that true? If so, what can I do to make by basement more efficient? – Andy Dear Andy: Yes, basements can account for a large portion of your home’s energy use, especially in colder climates. More importantly, basements are […]

Dear Pat and Brad: The last few months have been tough, and I’m dreading my manufactured home’s high winter heating bills. What can I do to make my home more efficient without spending too much money? – Lance Dear Lance: In difficult times like these, it’s more important than ever to ensure the money we spend […]

Dear Pat and Brad: I love my older home, but it’s drafty and uncomfortable at times. What can I do to reduce drafts that won’t cost me an arm and a leg? – Cris Dear Cris: This is a common problem, particularly in older homes. In many homes, about half of the conditioned air leaks to […]

Dear Pat and Brad: Our family has been trying to reduce our monthly expenses. The other day, my sister-in-law and I compared our electric bills. I was surprised to find out her energy costs were significantly lower than mine, even though our homes are similar in size and built around the same time. What could […]

The little blue (and sometimes black) logo with the star inside that you see on all sorts of appliances and electronics has changed the way we view savings through more efficient products. The ENERGY STAR® program claims credit for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and for saving Americans $30 billion in energy costs. Analysts credit […]

If May’s warmer weather has you thinking about the sultry summer months ahead, this could be a great time to consider energy-saving options and making plans to help control your energy costs. There’s a combination of things you can do yourself, like making slight modifications to your family’s routine that can help identify and achieve opportunities […]

Dear Pat and Brad: Our home’s windows are very old, and when the weather is cold, we can feel a chill when we stand near them. Do you think it’s worth replacing them? – Grace Dear Grace: First, prepare yourself for a bit of sticker shock when you get your first bid for replacing windows. To […]