How to Have the Lowest Electric Bill this Summer

Posted by Kelly Smith May 7, 2009

Everybody was shocked into reality last summer when gasoline prices skyrocketed to over $4.00 per gallon. It might be cheaper now, but believe it when I say it's temporary. When crude oil prices go up, it just mimics energy prices in general.

This means the price of electricity and natural gas will go back up. Do you want that in the summertime? It means that your air conditioner is going to eat a huge portion of your paycheck. Don't fret though; you can take control of the situation.

And when Cap and Trade legislation kicks in, all things energy will be heavily taxed. A report from the Heritage Foundation think tank said residential utility bills could increase by a whopping 50%!

Take Tax Credits for Attic Insulation and Radiant Barrier Foil

That's what I've been doing. I've been taking a few hours every morning to add insulation to my attic and install radiant barrier foil. I'm using Energy Q Thermal Barrier foil. The insulation is R-30. Energy Q is an Energy Star product and is the best foil on the market. Even NASA uses it.

Both energy efficient products are eligible for income tax credits linked to the 2009 economic stimulus package this year, so they pay you back in two ways. But here's the catch -- only the cost of the product is eligible, not labor. Hence, it's DIY time!

And both products work equally well to keep your home warm in the winter.

This is Seriously Hurting My Workouts

The downside to all this is that I'm not having enough time for my running workouts. I'm not too tired; there's not enough hours in the day. Ironic isn't it, given that I go to 24 Hr Fitness! It's alright though, my attic remodeling is almost done.

And just in time; it's going to get to 90 degrees today!