Did you know one of the best and easiest ways of keeping your house cool and reducing your energy bill is one of the most ancient: Plant some trees. The following web sites have some excellent ideas and tips for your home!
http://www.builditsmartvc.org/how/smartcooling1.php
http://www.cnspi.org/html/PlantInfo/So_California_Native_Trees.htm
• The government is expected to unveil a new program in the next couple of months that, if
approved, may reimburse homeowners for up to half the cost of making their homes more
efficient. Through the program, homeowners will receive the largest return from simple upgrades
like caulking windows, adding insulation, and changing incandescent light bulbs to those that are
more energy-efficient.
• To determine which energy-efficiency upgrades are best for their house, homeowners should
obtain a home energy audit. Homeowners are advised to hire a contractor licensed by the
Building Performance Institute or the Residential Energy Services Network. These contractors
have been trained to first test a home to determine the amount of energy it is losing, and then
make suggestions on renovations.