Education

Energy Star

Posted at November 10, 2008 15:01

A few improvements to your home could save you hundreds to thousands of dollars each year, and expert Chris Dorsi, co-author of The Homeowner’s Handbook to Energy, will tell you how at an energy conservation seminar at St. Louis on November 15.

 

Actions could be as simple as upgrading your refrigerator or more complex, such as re-insulating your house, Chris says. His book gives homeowners information on how to save money by making their home more energy efficient. It includes a chapter on new homes as well as a chapter dedicated to solar energy. 

 

The first and foremost action you should take when trying to improve your home’s energy efficiency is to simply look at what energy saving systems you have and think of ways to improve them. "One of the first things people should do is take stock of their home," Chris says. Another helpful tip is to have a professional do an energy audit of your home and to make sure they give you a list of recommendations after their audit.

 

Homes that are green-certified sold for more than those that are not green-certified. One study done by First Advantage Mortgage showed green-certified homes sell for $223 per square foot, while those that are not green-certified sell for only $185 per square foot. "Those homes also sold more quickly," Chris says. "It’s more difficult to sell homes these days, so the green homes stand out on the marketplace."

 

Chris has traveled across the country talking to people about their homes and how to make them more efficient, during such a hard economic time in America. "I’m meeting a lot of people and having a great time," he says.

 

Chris Dorsi’s energy conservation seminar runs from 10 am to 2 pm on November 15 at 1411 Locust Street at St. Louis. A one-hour book signing starts at 3 pm at the Missouri Botanical Garden at St. Louis. Here, Chris will consult with homeowners and provide helpful hints to make their homes more energy efficient.

 

For more information about The Homeowner’s Handbook to Energy visit www.homeownershandbook.biz.

—Regan Palmer

Missourilifelines November 2008

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