The past year's soaring energy bills have left many homeowners with empty pocketbooks. Increasing natural gas prices and electricity shortages occurred with little warning. But wise homeowners can protect themselves from skyrocketing bills by making their homes more energy-efficient. Most homes can become more energy-efficient in both summer and winter just by adding a little insulation.
Insulation helps control and maintain a home's temperature.
Whether containing cold air from an air conditioner or warm air from a heater, insulation helps. The U.S. Department of Energy has developed a measuring system to help homeowners determine the thermal resistance of different insulation materials, such as windows, siding and fiberglass insulation. The Department of Energy recommends that homes have a combined R-Value of 11. Argon is an inert gas that prevents outside air from penetrating the home. The foam-filled frame acts as an additional insulator around seams and helps reduce noise.