How's Your Head For Savings?

An Ipsos Reid survey recently found more than 90 per cent of Canadian homeowners agree that it's important to reduce their impact on the environment and to reduce energy use in their home to save money. As a homeowner you might care about the environment and saving money, but do you have the right stuff to make it happen? Taking this little quiz from InsulationSmart.com can help you tell:

1. True or false: Increasing insulation R-value from R-13 to R-21 delivers significant energy savings?

2. The largest source of energy waste in a home is: a) inefficient electrical appliances; b) windows; c) air leakage; d) an inefficient water heater?

3. What percentage of moisture entering a building through the walls is typically carried through the air: a) 5 per cent; b) 25 per cent; c) 75 per cent; d) up to 99 per cent?

4. Which of the following is most likely to make your indoor air healthier: a) minimizing air leaks and using mechanical ventilation; b) airing out your home frequently; c) cleaning your ducts regularly; d) using air fresheners?

5. True or false: Products labeled as green must meet tough standards?

ANSWERS
1. False: R-13 insulation already stops 93 per cent of conductive heat flow (what R-value measures), so significant increases in R-value won't necessarily deliver significant savings.

2. c) Air leakage. By controlling random air leakage with an insulation/air-barrier system like Icynene, you can help stop up to 40 per cent of a home's energy loss (according to Natural Resources Canada) and save up to 50 per cent in energy costs.

3. d) Up to 99 per cent of moisture entering a building through the walls is carried by air, so controlling air leaks can help address a major cause of moisture and mold problems.

4. a) Minimizing air leakage along with mechanical ventilation will provide fresh/filtered air, reduce allergens and pollutants and minimize airborne moisture.

5. False: A green or eco label doesn't necessarily mean the product meets any particular standards. An Ipsos Reid poll found more than 90 per cent of Canadian homeowners want more universal standards for products making environmental claims.

Fortunately, homeowners can get on track to a more energy efficient and greener home by visiting www.InsulationSmart.com. ~ News Canada