Upgrading a home's insulation saves twice

SAN DIEGO — Heating and cooling typically account for the largest energy expense in a home. Up to 40 percent of a home’s heat loss takes place due to inadequate insulation, wasting energy dollars in both winter and summer.

“San Diego’s temperature fluctuates between chilly winter weather and sweltering summers making proper home insulation critical,” explains Hal Snyder, vice president of customer programs for SDG&E. “The best way to make the most of your heating and air conditioning dollars is to insulate your ceilings, walls and floors, which would save an average family approximately $18 per month.”

Insulation is rated by R-value; the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation. At a minimum, ceilings should be insulated to R-30, walls to R-13 and floors to R-19. Some types of attic insulation settle over time or may be unevenly distributed and need to be upgraded to achieve at least R-30.

“Not only will installing insulation help save money on energy bills, but rebates of $0.15 per square foot are currently available on attic and wall insulation that meet R-value and other guidelines,” says Snyder. “For example, savings on 1,200 square feet of insulation, about the amount needed for the average home, add up to approximately $180 in rebates.”

For more information on rebates visit http://www.sdge.com/residential/singleFamilyRebate or call SDG&E’s Energy Information Center at (800) 644-6133.