The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that “homeowners can typically save up to 20 percent of heating and cooling costs (or up to 10 percent of total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces, and accessible basement rim joists.” Whether you install the insulation yourself or hire a contractor, check out Insulation 101 for research, comparisons and a glossary of useful terms. Or call the FREE Green Building Hotline at 503-823-5431.

And check this out...

If you want help making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient without writing a big check, contact Clean Energy Works Portland. This hassle-free program helps you pay for energy upgrades month-by-month on your regular heating bill.

As part of this program, you'll get:

• An in-depth home energy assessment.
• Energy saving upgrades such as insulation, air sealing and high-efficiency heating equipment, installed by the program's highly-qualified contractors. 
• Low-cost financing. Improvements are financed with a low-cost, long-term loan that is repaid on your monthly heating bill. The energy savings offset part of this payment, making it easier to afford.

To participate in Clean Energy Works Portland, apply online at www.CleanEnergyWorksPortland.org to see if you qualify. To request a paper application, call 503-546-8766.