Archive for May, 2010

The Weather Outside is Frightful

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010

It is nearing the end of May and I am looking out my window expecting to see sunshine, birds, and blooming flowers.  Instead I see overcast clouds, frightening winds, and not a bird in sight.  Let’s just say the weather here in the Golden State has been not so golden.  I’ve almost put away all of my winter clothes, but now I am glad that I haven’t.

In fact, it’s getting to chilly where I live that I am considering starting up a roaring fire in my fireplace so that I can warm up a bit.  During the winter, there was much fireplace activity – and rightly so, it was cold!  But now it’s Springtime and I would be the last person to think that a roaring fire would be a scene fit for spring, but according to the forecast it may just be!  Typically I like to put away my fireplace tools when I am not using them because it gives me more space around the fireplace – which is the main focal point of my living room, but this year I will not be so quick to put my fireplace tools away because it almost seems like Old Man Winter is still kicking…

Cash for Caulkers – Could be coming soon!

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010

If you have been considering upgrading and renovating your home in a way that will make it more energy efficient, then you may find your lucky break soon!  The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act, better known as Cash for Caulkers, is making its way to the Senate floor for approval.

This program is geared to offering rebates to homeowners for refitting out their home to save energy.  It is a way for the government to create more green jobs here in the U.S. and can put a lot of people who were recently laid off in construction and manufacturing back to work!

The bill has two parts.  The Silver Star program provides rebates for up to $3,000 to specific energy efficient improvements made to your home, including duct sealing installation or new energy efficient windows.

The second part of the bill, the Gold Star program, allows people up to $8,000 in rebates if they conduct a thorough energy audits that shows that their improvements have reduced energy use by more than 20%.

When the bill passes, it will be a great time for homeowners to start their energy efficient house projects that they may have been putting off.  Aside from the program putting U.S. workers back on the payroll, the products and equipment used for most energy improvement projects are made right here in the U.S., so we will be supporting our country in more ways than one!