Is Your Home as Efficient and Healthy as Possible?Ìý

As temperatures begin to drop and leaves start to fall, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) wants to ask homeowners a few questions about the health of their homes. In its newly releasedÌý,Ìýthe DOE provides a set of questions that can help homeowners evaluate areas for home improvement to increase efficiency and home health.ÌýÌý

An efficient home is beneficial in multiple ways. When our homes are operating efficiently, we can reduce energy consumption, save money on utility bills and improve indoor air quality. Maybe you’ve been putting off replacing that furnace. MaybeÌýit’s time toÌý. Or maybe you suspect moldÌýisÌýbehind the walls of that basement bathroom. It’s always good to check in and see if you can make improvements that will increase efficiency and make your home a healthier place to live.Ìý

Some projects, likeÌý,Ìýcaulking your windows,Ìýand weather-stripping your doors, are relatively easy to do yourself. Others, like mold remediation or installing a new heating system, require the help of professionals. That’s why the DOE also provides resources for finding a qualified contractor if you don’t already have one. Experienced contractors provide experience, knowledge and skills that most DIYers simply don’t have. When in doubt, talk to a qualified professional to get the job done right.Ìý

If you’ve been wondering if your home might need some updates, start the conversation now byÌýreviewing the DOE’sÌýinfographicÌý.

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