Simple tips for making your home more energy efficient

You might assume that making your home energy efficient requires a lot of time and money, but generally that’s not the case. Often small fixes can have a big impact on your heating, cooling, and other utility bills. Here are some easy things you can do to make your home more efficient right now:

Tip #1: Don’t turn that dial
Keep your thermostat set at one temperature and leave it! In the winter around 68 degrees should be right, and 75 degrees in summer (in homes with a cooling system, of course). Avoiding constant adjustments will keep your energy bills stable.

Tip #2: Stop the drip-drips
Leaky showerheads and faucets are hard-to-miss energy wasters. Toilets that run can also cost you on your water bill. The majority of required repairs are covered in the most basic do-it-yourself handbook.

Tip #3: Go fluorescent
While compact fluorescent light bulbs cost more than the standard incandescent bulbs that you’re used to, they last up to five times longer and use only a quarter of the electricity. Many of these bulbs last over five years, and each energy-saving fluorescent bulb will save you $40 to $60 on your electric bill over the course of its lifetime.

Tip #4: Watch that fireplace
Energy can really leak out of that fireplace. Check the dampers and screens to make sure that energy isn’t leaking when the fireplace is not in use. If the fireplace is just for decoration, cover the chimney. A well maintained fireplace should be an economical way to heat your house and add a warm atmosphere as well.

Tip #5: Keep those appliances humming
Clean air conditioning and furnace filters frequently, and have your appliances inspected once a year. Efficient appliances lower energy bills and future repair costs.


Tip #6: Windows that waste
Windows are the most common energy waster. Make sure that all the weather-stripping is in good condition, and consider double-paned windows and storm shutters to reduce the energy drain.

Hopefully these ideas help you create a more energy efficient home. Energy efficiency is not only an important part of conservation; it’s also a great way to save money. More homeowners tips are available on my website. If you have any questions about your home, I’m only a phone call away.

For more information call 713-443-3423 or visit www.chatmanhomes.com

How does my credit score affect me?

Your credit score is an important indicator of your financial health. Lenders use credit scores to determine:
>Whether or not you are a good candidate for a loan
>What type of interest rate you will pay
>While your credit score is a key determinant of your creditworthiness, lenders also examine the information on your credit report and your loan application. Regularly checking your credit report enables you to:
Be informed of the most up-to-date information in your credit history
Correct any inaccuracies, to make sure that your credit data is a true depiction of your credit record and increasing your chances of receiving credit under the best possible terms.

Reducing Credit Temptation

>Get throw a way extra credit cards( department stores.
>Reduce your credit limit
>Replace credit cards with charge and debt cards
>Use cash as much as possible(clothes, shoes, groceries, fast food)
>Pay day loans or a no, no.

To apply for a Budget Analysis visit www.chatmanhomes.com