\ ... cs-' The Clarington/Courtice Independent, Bowmanville, Saturday, December 14, 1996 27 Efficient Use of Energy Saves Money 7 his article is provided by lo cal Realtors and the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) for the benefit of consumers consumers in the real estate market. market. The harsh winter climate in most of Canada makes energy efficiency at home a must. Care and maintenance of energy energy sources can shave many, many dollars off your heating bills, and provide higher levels of comfort and health for you and your family. Many homes built over the past few years have used improved improved construction methods and materials, plus newer technology, technology, to ensure a high degree of energy efficiency is already built into the home. Older homes, however, unless unless they've been upgraded with energy conservation in mind, need special care, and possibly some renovations to reach high standards of energy efficiency. There are five elements that can be coordinated to produce a high level of energy efficiency. efficiency. They are controlled ventilation, ventilation, good insulation, air-tight construction, some solar heating heating and an efficient heating system. The place to start on your energy energy efficient checklist is the furnace. In fact, many experts say your heating system should be checked by a qualified in- Del's Mortgage Watch Today's Best Rate for First Mortgages. * Best Rates as of December I Oth, 1996 NEW! Adjustable Rate Mortgage ... 3.740% 6 Months 4.600% 4 Year 5.850% 1 Year 4.950% 5 Year 6.200% 2 Year 5.200% 7 Year 6.990% 3 Year 5.450% 10 Year 7.390% NOTE: We handle the transfer of an existing mortgage at No Cost! WE ALSO ARRANGE: • Second Mortgages • Credit Lines • Personal Loans CALL: DEL DYKSTRA 697-3300 , DELT0N*" LLTD MORTGAGES I Division Street Bowmanville spector once a year. Filters, duct work and internal burning systems all need to be in proper proper order to have efficient heating. heating. You also need to insure that chimneys and vents are clear of obstructions. If you're thinking of a major upgrade of your heating system, system, remember that gas can save you 33 per cent in annual costs over oil and 50 per cent over electricity. A heating system that is not in good order can not only cost you money in extra fuel charges charges but can also be a serious safety hazard. A blocked chimney chimney or loose vent can release deadly carbon monoxide into your home. Detectors are easily easily available, and recommended, recommended, but you can ease your concern concern with proper and regular maintenance of the heating system. system. The next things to check for, in older homes particularly, are cracks, drafts and lack of weather stripping around doors, windows and vents. These things can result in significant significant heat loss, excessive moisture and discomfort. Any space that can let in air or water water should be sealed by caulking caulking or putty. The more air-tight your home is, the more energy efficient it will be. Insulation' in walls, ceilings, basements and other areas can have a major impact on the energy energy efficiency of your house. If it is too little, or not of high enough quality, the cold weather weather will seep through the walls, foundation or roof. A little upgrading upgrading of your insulation can be a do-it-yourself task, but if you need a major job done, you're better to hire a professional professional contractor. If windows on the south side of your home are properly double-glazed double-glazed and free of obstructions obstructions from trees, awnings or blinds, they can contribute so lar heating to your home. People, their lifestyles, use of appliances and utilities also contribute heat to a home. Or in some cases, such as leaving windows open in the winter but setting the thermostat high, cause heat loss and higher costs. Being aware of the impact impact of your lifestyle choices can be a major part of the solution. solution. The goal of an energy effi cient home is to minimize heat loss and maximize the no cost sources of heat. Rising energy costs and increased environmental environmental awareness have made people more concerned about energy conservation. By checking checking the energy efficiency factors factors in your house and using proper maintenance, you can lower your maintenance costs and increase your comfort and safety. Edvan Realty 214 King St. E. Bowmanville, Ontario L1C1P3 623-4445 Fax 623-8859 I J PY JAYS Dorothy Hartford 623-4445 or 623-3651 (res.) $109,500 Bungalow with 2 bedrooms and hardwood floors, high efficiency furnace, and updated wiring. Large 62'x149' lot in north end. Call Dorothy Hartford to view 623-4445 or 623-3651 (res.) 20 ACRES Wilma AND STREAM Entwisle 623-4445 or 786-2911 (res.) $89,900 Good road frontage and well wooded. The natural landscape makes this acreage special - asking $89,900. Call Wilma Entwisle, Sales Representative 623-4445 or 786-2911 (res.) GOOD LOCATION Bette Morrison 623-4445 or SMALL ACREAGE 697-1232 (res.) WITH TOWN WATER $1 15,000 3 bedroom bungalow, wood burning fireplace, attached garage. Privacy Plus! Immediate possession available. Call Bette Morrison, Sales Representative ' 623-4445 or 697-1232 (res.) .jigip m. WANTED! Looking for Listings for anxious clients. Give us a call if you're thinking of making a move. Thank you to all our Clients and Friends who made 1996 such a success! Best Wishes to all for 1997. Glenda Bedard, Assoc. Broker 987-4316 (res.) and Murray Paterson, Sales Representative 987-4628 (res.) or 623-4445 The Kaitlin Group" .... : ■ ■ ..... ■ Ï - ■- .. ' ' ' : ■ . . ■ ■ . \ ■\.T /■ ■ \ V ■ . ' . . - ■. . Y Community from $129,990 T-vv/' ' .. • • Heritage Homes in a Frie Hometoi on 38* & 45* Lots from $149,990 net MM K U j l ' Y.l T. | I |T| v V) 4 roroMNro - HWY.iOl CMK y I f 5. V $ (905)623-7027 or (90S) 427-8605 905-697-0792 1-800-305-6849 7 .r""""""" fWMMÇ Lh I " z hH f : HH