Conservation represents an investment and operational decision to use
less energy in our daily lifestyles. While not advocating "freezing in
the dark," we all need to be mindful of how our behavior and purchase decisions
influence our energy use. Our home purchase and utilization are the most
significant ways we can each make our mark on our nation's energy use. Consider
your options carefully and be especially mindful of a first cost bias -- we
seldom consider adding the investment in home efficiency options. Remember
that adding insulation and upgrading to more efficient heating and cooling
systems may be covered by increasing your home mortgage to include these higher costs.
The savings on utility bills for appropriate enhancements will more than offset any increases
in monthly mortgage payments and will add to your home's resale value.
