Home Energy Audits and Energy Saving Services in IL

Blame It On Your Crawl Space (Part 1)

Tue, February 19 2013, 00:00:00 -500

Leaky doors and windows aren't the real problem, and your HVAC system isn't the most likely culprit. In this 3-part series, Dr. Energy Saver and Woods Basement Systems examine 3 common crawl space problems that are increasing your discomfort, making your home stink, and robbing your wallet.

PROBLEM #1: Outside Air Intrusion

FACT: Outside air is no ally of your crawl space. It's cold in the winter months, damp in wet weather, and hot and humid during the summer.

In the winter, cold air leaking into your crawl space causes uncomfortable drafts throughout your home, creates cold floors above, and renders your HVAC system, water heater, and hot water pipes inefficient.

Drafts & Cold Floors

Vented crawl spaces are essentially open windows beneath your home, allowing cold air to pour into your home in the winter and undermine your comfort. Vents to the outside are just the beginning; cold outside air still leaks in underneath the sill plate, through gaps in the rim joist, openings around pipes and wires to the outside, and exterior access doors. All of the above allow for uncomfortable drafts throughout your home, and cold air camping out in your crawl space creates cold floors in the rooms above.

Inefficient Heat

Cold winter air can wreck havoc on your HVAC system, water heater, and hot water pipers as well. As cold air seeps into leaky joints and gaps in ductwork, it cools the hot air your system is trying to distribute and dumps more cold air into your cold air return—causing your HVAC system to run longer and more often so as to try to keep your home consistently warm. The cold air surrounding your water heater and pipes also requires more energy to constantly provide you with hot water.

Thus, you're never truly comfortable, and you're spending countless dollars on unnecessary utility costs.

SOLUTION: Air Sealing & Insulation

Air sealing and insulating your crawl space is the first step to living more comfortably and efficiently without breaking the bank. Here's how:

Install crawl space vent covers to close those gaping holes in your foundation.
Air seal the rim joist with spray foam to reduce air leaks and insulate your crawl space at the same time.
Repair and seal leaky ductwork to allow your HVAC system to operate more efficiently.

In Blame It On Your Crawl Space (Part 2), Woods Basement Systems explains how mold and humidity in your crawl space are detrimental to your health and the structural integrity of your home.

Illinois to Become Second State to Adopt 2012 International Energy Conservation Code

Mon, December 17 2012, 10:36:00 -500

On January 1, 2013 Illinois will become the second state to adopt the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). According to the Building Performance Institute (BPI), “The testing provisions in the new code (Section R402.4.1.2) require all new residential one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses and low-rise multi-family buildings to be tested and verified as having an air leakage rate not exceeding 5 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals (5ACH50). Ducts must also be pressure tested when partially outside of conditioned space.”

One company that can help Illinois home builders meet the new code requirements is Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis. Dr. Energy Saver is proud to be listed by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) as a qualified resource for home builders to fulfill blower door and duct leakage testing.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis’ General Manager Brian Stewart said of the changes, “We are excited that Illinois will become only the second state (after Maryland) to adopt the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code. The bottom line is that anyone buying a new home will have a place to live that is more comfortable and less expensive to own and operate”.

Stewart Continues, “At Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis we have the people, training, experience and equipment to help Illinois builders meet the new requirements. We can properly and professionally perform the necessary blower door and duct blaster tests. Then, if the home does not pass the tests, we can do the work necessary to bring it up to a high standard of tightness as required by the newly updated code.”

Blower door tests, duct leakage testing, air sealing, and duct sealing are just a few of the services that Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis can perform to help any home meet the new standards in Illinois and Missouri. Their team of certified, trained employees also specializes in complete home energy audits; attic, wall and crawlspace insulation; spray foam insulation; and many others.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis has helped make hundreds of homes in the St. Louis area more energy efficient and comfortable. Contact them today for information or to schedule testing on the Illinois side of the river in Alton, Edwardsville, Collinsville, Belleville, and O Fallon, or on the Missouri side in St. Louis and surrounding cities.

Enjoy Warmer Floors by Insulating with Spray Foam

Fri, November 16 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Drafts and cold floors are signs of unaddressed air leaks and a lack of air sealing and insulation. Take this St. Charles, Missouri home for example. The sunroom extends beyond the foundation walls of the home, elevated above outdoor storage space and exposed to the elements. When the temperature drops in the winter, the floor above this open space will most definitely get cold, because floor joists below lack insulation.

The bigger problem, though, is the lack of air sealing. Without proper air sealing, any insulation installed would simply act as an insufficient air filter.

In cases like this, Dr. Energy Saver recommends insulating the floor joists running beneath the sun porch with two-part spray foam insulation. By applying spray foam between the floor joists, Dr. Energy Saver not only insulates but air seals the floor as well. Spray foam insulation expands as it is applied, filling every gap around joints, plumbing, wiring, pipe or wire penetrations, and other fixtures.

In cases of vented, unconditioned crawl spaces or basements, homeowners are also wasting a lot of energy. Cold floors, drafty rooms and high energy bills are some of the symptoms of energy loss through the crawl space and basement.

Call Dr. Energy Saver to schedule a complete home energy check-up, and see just how much you can save.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis Makes Children’s Christmas Wishes Come True

Fri, November 16 2012, 08:58:35 -500

For the second consecutive year, the employees, families, and friends of Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis and its sister company, Woods Basement Systems, are granting Christmas wishes for the children of Hoyleton Children’s Home.

Every year at this holiday time, each of the 40 children at Hoyleton fills out a wish list of gifts and then donors have the privilege of ‘adopting’ the lists and purchasing the gifts for the children. This year, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis is adopting the wish lists of 13 boys and girls residing at two of the Hoyleton cottages, Skyview and Elm Street. This is an expansion since last year when the company adopted the wish lists of eight children.

Each year, employees, families, and friends are invited to the Hoyleton Children’s Home campus for the annual Christmas party to share in the joy of seeing wishes come true as the children open their gifts. The party includes a festive meal for everyone and for the first time this year, the children are performing in a Christmas pageant.

Assistant Manager of Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis, Melissa Bednarz, speaks for the company when she says, “We are very blessed to be a part of this event; it’s great to see our families interacting with the Hoyleton family. I hope we continue this tradition for years to come and expand upon the number of children we reach each year.”

The Hoyleton Children’s Home is a residential treatment program that provides compassionate care for children and adolescents with severe emotional and or behavioral problems as well as youth who are developmentally delayed. The Home also provides case management, vocational training, and job placement programs. It is just one of several Hoyleton ministries.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis, always active in the community, has helped hundreds of homeowners increase their home’s energy efficiency while lowering energy costs. They perform home energy evaluations to illustrate where energy is being used, lost, and wasted; then they do the work to minimize energy consumption and maximize the customer’s investment. Their full range of services includes air sealing, attic and crawl space insulation, spray foam insulation, ductwork sealing, radiant barrier, and more.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis serves customers throughout Florissant, St. Louis, Ballwin, Chesterfield, Belleville, Fenton, and surrounding areas!

Applying Spray Foam Insulation to Granite City Basement

Tue, November 6 2012, 10:39:55 -500

The detail between the foundation wall, the sill plate, the rim joist, and the sub flooring allows for significant air leakage from the outside, especially when pipe and wire penetrations are added. Far too often, it is also the a place that is poorly insulated. Resulting symptoms include cold floors above, drafts, high humidity (which causes higher heating and air conditioning bills), and even mold. Gaps or penetrations in this area also allow infiltration of various allergens and provide entry points for insects and other pests.

These Granite City, Illinois homeowners were concerned about maximizing the comfort and increasing the efficiency of their home. Once Dr. Energy Saver inspected and evaluated the whole home for leaks and energy loss, our home energy consultant sat down with the homeowners to prioritize their goals to get the best results.

• Make home comfortable and energy efficient
• Improve comfort/efficiency of front room
• Control indoor air quality and musty smell in basement

Follow Dr. Energy Saver on Twitter

Sat, January 1 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Follow Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis on Twitter @DrEnergySTL. Join the conversation, and receive home improvement updates and special offers on energy-saving upgrades. Direct message us with questions or schedule an energy audit. We encourage our customers to tweet about their experience and share their story with their followers. We heart referrals.

Like Dr. Energy Saver on Facebook for Updates & Special Offers

Fri, August 20 2010, 00:00:00 -500

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis' official Facebook page is facebook.com/woodsenergysolutions. Like us on Facebook, and receive updates containing tips and tricks to make your home more comfortabe and energy-efficient as well as special offers on energy-saving upgrades. We also encourage our customers to share their experience with their friends. Write on our wall, or recommend us to your neighbor. We heart referrals.

HVAC Performance Testing in Collinsville Illustrates How a Home Energy Audit Eliminates Guesswork

Mon, August 6 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Collinsville, IL — A home energy audit is the critical first step to understanding how your house uses energy, loses energy, and wastes money. Most companies who perform energy audits do not provide all of the energy-saving upgrades that the audit recommends. Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis has the expertise and resources to perform the energy audit and all of the energy-saving upgrades identified in a home energy evaluation.

Testing Eliminates Guesswork & Ensures Maximum Energy Savings

A concerned homeowner asked Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis to test the performance of his HVAC system. Brian Stewart, General Manager, found that the heating and cooling system was actually running very efficiently, but he suspected the culprit was leaky ductwork. By conducting duct blaster and pressure pan tests, Brian discovered the locations of the duct leakage.

Dr. Energy Saver recommends a complete home energy audit to test your home's energy performance. Because of the various tests, Brian was able to locate the duct leakage and properly seal the ductwork to maximize the performance of the HVAC system—saving the homeowner energy and money.

Leaky Ductwork Makes High-Efficiency Furnaces Inefficient

Tue, July 24 2012, 00:00:00 -500

You just bought the latest, most efficient heating and cooling system on the market. It's much more quiet than that rackety old energy hog you once called a furnace. Plus, the HVAC contractor that sold it to you promised it would work better and save you a lot of money on your monthly utility bills.

What Does "High-Efficiency" Really Mean?

The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is a thermal energy measure for combustion appliances such as furnaces, boilers, and water heaters. AFUE measures, for example, the percentage of energy a furnace converts to heat. Modern furnaces are often 95% efficient or higher, meaning that 95% or more of the energy coming to the furnace is converted into heat. However, the heated air must travel through ductwork before it reaches its destination.

One of the major sources of energy loss in most homes is leaky ductwork. Leaks often occur at the seams or joints where the sheet metal sections join together.

As much as 40% of an HVAC system's energy consumption can be wasted due to faulty or leaky ducts. A high-efficiency system won't make much of a difference when you're losing 40% of the conditioned air that you already paid to heat or cool. And your utility bills will tell you as much.

Comfort and Energy Efficiency at Home

Leaky supply ducts cool your attic or heat your crawl space before the conditioned air ever makes it to your living room. Leaky return ducts pull hot attic air or musty crawl space air into your system. Either way, your comfort is compromised.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis seals air ducts for maximized energy efficiency, as part of a program designed to save you up to 40% on your heating and cooling bills. We'll inspect your ductwork during our home energy checkup, where we'll also test your overall home energy performance and check your attic and basement for proper air sealing and insulation.

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Call 877-755-7575 or contact us online to schedule a home energy audit today with one of our BPI-Certified Energy Upgrade Consultants. We serve both sides of the river including Chesterfield, St. Louis, O'Fallon, Florrisant, Kirkwood, Ballwin, Edwardsville, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Bethalo, Millstadt, Freeburg, and surrounding cities.

The St. Louis Regional Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Gains An Exciting New Member

Wed, July 11 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Collinsville, IL - The St. Louis Regional Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program has gained a new member with an impressive ability to help homeowners save energy and money. The company, called Dr. Energy Saver®, uses a whole-home approach that results in great improvements in comfort to go along with energy savings.

The whole-home approach starts with an energy audit that considers the home as a system. Rather than improving a home’s energy efficiency by simply upgrading the heating and cooling system or the insulation, Dr. Energy Saver looks at how those individual components work together to affect both comfort and energy use.

Brian Stewart, Dr. Energy Saver General Manager says, “We often work with homeowners who have spent their hard-earned dollars to upgrade one part of their home and then failed to realize the energy savings and increased comfort they expected”.

He continues, “Sometimes people assume they can reduce their monthly utility bills by replacing their windows or by adding insulation. Sometimes they are right, sometimes they aren’t. Our goal is to eliminate the guessing by testing first, considering how one improvement affects another, then making the most cost effective set of improvements to achieve what the homeowner wants.”

Stewart says that seeing the huge improvements in comfort that result from the whole-home approach is the most exciting part.

“Oftentimes, a home with energy efficiency problems also has comfort problems such as one part of the home that is difficult to heat and cool or problems with indoor air quality. By carefully diagnosing and treating the underlying energy problems, we can often take care of the comfort symptoms as well,” said Stewart.

Home Performance with ENERGY STAR offers a comprehensive approach to home improvement, remodeling, and renovation that will make your home more efficient and reduce energy costs, while improving indoor air quality and creating a more comfortable, healthier home. At the same time, you’ll be helping to protect the environment through energy conservation.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis serves customers in the Greater St. Louis area on both sides of the river including Saint Louis, Chesterfield, St. Charles, Belleville, O’Fallon, Collinsville, Edwardsville and all surrounding areas! The company offers a complete range of whole-home services such as home energy audits, insulation, and heating and cooling systems.

How Much is Phantom Power Costing St. Louis Homeowners?

Thu, July 5 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Phantom loads are caused by appliances that appear to be off when in standby mode and may be storing startup energy to be used when the device is actually turned on. Phantom loads can account fo rup to 5% of your electricity bills. Some devices such as alarm clocks arent worth turning off, but other appliances such as televisions and computers are. Dr. Energy Saver can provide you with "smart strips" which allow some appliances to be turned off while others remain on all at the touch of a button - all with the flick of a switch. For further savings, Dr. Energy Saver can perform a home energy audit to identify areas where your home uses energy well and other areas in which it is wasting money and energy.

We have helped many local homeowners save money on their electric bills while also living more comfortably. We offer home energy audits, insulation, and heating and cooling services to customers throughout Greater St. Louis including Ballwin, Chesterfield, Florrisant, Alton, Edwardsville, and all surrounding areas!

Electricity and Water Actually Do Mix: What Greater St. Louis Homeowners Should Know!

Tue, July 3 2012, 00:00:00 -500

We've all heard that you should never mix water and electricity because bad things will happen. What most people don't know or don't realize is that their water and electricity bills are tied together. Water is a natural resource, it comes from the ground, but that water doesn't get anywhere without the use of electricity; somewhere along the line a lot of electricity is used to pump water. Most people prefer to take a shower or wash their hands in hot water, which requires electricity to heat.

Tankless water heaters are a mean of supplying hot water to your home without wasting all that energy keeping hot water while it isn't being used.

Dr. Energy Saver can perform an energy audit and make recommendations regarding tankless water heaters, water conservation, and other home energy improvements that can save you money and increase the comfort of your home. We help homeowners on both sides of the river from Belleville, O'Fallon, Ballwin, Alton, Edwardsville and more!

Need Help Financing Your Energy Improvement?

Tue, June 19 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Is your home uncomfortable? Dr. Energy Saver Can Help!

Uneven Temperatures
HVAC runs too often, costs too much, and still doesn't help.
Drafts
Cold Floors

These are just some of the symptoms of an underlying energy issue, that our home energy audit can identify! Whether you want a more comfortable home or just want to lower your energy bills, we can help!

St. Louis County SAVES™ Program

Dr. Energy Saver has now partnered with St. Louis County SAVES™ — a program that provides loans with a fixed interest rate of 3.5% for St. Louis County Residents. The loans can be anywhere from $2,500 to $15,000 depending on your financing needs! So who qualifies?

Qualifying for an Energy Saving Loan

These loans are only available to St. Louis County, owner-occupied single-family residences. You must have a FICO score of 660 or above and a debt to income ratio less than 45%. You can combine this loan with any utility rebates and federal tax credits for even more savings!

We service throughout St. Louis County from Ballwin, Florissant, and Maryland heights, to Manchester, Saint John, Webster Groves, and more!

What Services Are Covered By These Loans?

St. Louis County Saves offers financing on an energy audit as well as any home energy improvement that may be recommended. Improvements included are: air sealing, home insulation, high efficiency equipment, and more!

Don't live in St. Louis County? Don't worry! You can still save money with incentives and other rebates!! We service both sides of the river!

Call Dr. Energy Saver at 1-877-755-7575 for an energy audit and start living more comfortably with lower energy bills today!

Only a Quack Would Use Duck Tape on Ductwork

Wed, June 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Ductwork has joints where two pieces of ductwork were connected either due to length issues or to navigate around obstacles like corners or pipes. These joints are a common source of air leakage, which results in energy loss and discomfort.

Duct tape was originally invented during World War II to keep moisture out of ammunition cases. Given the fact that the cloth backing for the waterproof tape was made from cotton duck cloth, servicemen coined the name "duck tape." After the war, duck tape became "duct tape" when contractors started using it to seal ductwork. The problem with duct tape is that it dries out and disintegrates when applied to ductwork.

Duct tape can be handy for other repairs; just don't use it for sealing ducts. Duct tape just doesn't last very long.

For a more permanent solution, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis can seal and insulate leaky ductwork to help reduce energy loss and increase comfort. Other services such as air sealing, attic and basement insulation, heating and cooling, and tankless water heaters improve overall home energy performance and help lower utility bills. Call Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis or schedule your Complete Home Energy Check-Up online to start living more comfortably and save money today!

Win 2 Luxury Suite Tickets to Cards Game on Friday, July 6th

Thu, June 14 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis is helping Missouri and Illinois residents save big and win big this summer with a Home Energy Check-up and a free night at the ballpark.

Scolding summer temperatures don't have to result in outrageous utility bills. With a home energy audit from Dr. Energy Saver, you can find out exactly where your home is using, losing, and wasting energy so you can stop wasting energy and start saving money on your heating and cooling bills. And we're talking BIG savings!

St. Louis TV Spot #1

Thursday, June 14th, 2012

How would you like to save over $40 on your utilities in April? It's possible!

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St. Louis TV Spot #2

Thursday, June 14th, 2012

Saving $50 every month on utilities is equivalent to $600 annual savings!

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GAME DETAILS
Friday, July 6, 2012
7:15 PM • Busch Stadium

In addition to making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis will treat one lucky winner to a night at the ballpark. Homeowners in the Greater St. Louis area who schedule a Home Energy Check-Up with Dr. Energy Saver between NOON on Thursday, June 14, 2012 and NOON on Friday, June 22, 2012 will be entered in a drawing for two (2) Luxury Suite tickets to the Cards game on Friday, July 6, 2012. The tickets to the Luxury Suite include food and beverage. That's a suite deal!

Save big on your utilities, and win big with the 11-Time World Champions. Click here to enter your information, and Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis will contact you to schedule your Home Energy Check-up and enter you for a chance to win the two (2) Luxury Suite tickets. We will announce the winner on our Facebook page Friday afternoon, June 22, 2012.

Is Your Insulation Dirty?

Tue, June 19 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Dirty insulation is a sure sign that your home is leaking air and costing you money while making your home uncomfortable. When air leaks are present, insulation merely filters the air passing through it, trapping dirt and dust. Leaky homes allow unconditioned air containing mold spores and other other allergens to flow in from outside and your conditioned air to flow out of your home.

Air Seal Before Adding Insulation

Monday, December 12th, 2011

Carol Reuter is a realtor who used to have a drafty home until Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis air sealed her home in Swansea, Illinois, and saved her over $40 on her first month's utility bill...

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If your insulation is dirty, then it's time to call Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis for your Complete Home Energy Check-Up. An energy audit from Dr. Energy Saver can show you where your home loses energy. The "doctor" who performs your Home Energy Check-Up will offer solutions to increase your home's comfort and energy-efficency. Stop losing money and living in an uncomfortable home, and call Dr. Energy Saver to schedule your appointment today!

The Stack Effect Makes Your Home Uncomfortable

Mon, June 18 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Your home is full of small holes that allow conditioned air to escape from your home, which wastes energy while making your home uncomfortable. And don't forget the money lost when conditioning that air. All of these holes are normal and are created when construction crews make room for plumbing or heating and cooling ducts running all throughout your house. These holes allow conditioned air to escape near the top of your home and unconditioned air to be sucked in at the bottom of your home, a phenomenon known as the stack effect.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis provides a home energy audit, during which a "doctor" inspects your home from top to bottom for air leaks (and other inefficiencies) and then offers solutions to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. If you find that your home has temperatures that vary from one room to another, drafts, cold floors, or that your home is uncomfortable in general, give Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis a call at 1-877-755-7575 (or email us today) to schedule a Complete Home Energy Check-Up.

Dr. Energy Saver Solves Leaky Ductwork Issues in St. Louis MO

Sat, June 9 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Most homes in the United States use air ducts to transport air to rooms within the home. If an air duct is not properly sealed, up to twenty percent of the air can be lost and never make it to the desired room. This loss of air can result in higher heating and cooling bills and may even result in some rooms being uncomfortable, especially in the summer and winter months.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis provides energy audits that show homeowners where their homes are using energy efficiently and where the home could use improvement. If a home has leaky air ducts, Dr. Energy Saver can properly seal the ductwork, which will result in a much more comfortable living environment and can help save money on heating and cooling bills.

Schedule your Complete Home Energy Check-Up today, start saving money, and enjoy greater comfort at home.

10 Ways to Improve Comfort and Energy Efficiency at Home

Fri, June 8 2012, 00:00:00 -500

With the inevitable increase in utility costs, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce energy consumption and save money in the process. The Alliance to Save Energy® offers ten tips and tricks to save energy at home.

Wash clothes in cold water to save $63 a year.
Install a programmable thermostat to save up to 10% on cooling and heating costs.
Use your window shades. Close blinds on the sunny side in summer to keep out the hot sun, and open them in winter to bring in warm rays.
Turn off all lights, appliances and electronics not in use. A power strip can help turn off multiple items at once. (Sometimes the simplest things are really effective!)
Change to new and improved light bulbs. Reduce energy use from about a third to as much as 80% with today’s increasing number of energy-efficient halogen incandescents, CFLs and LEDs.
Look for the Energy Star label, the government’s symbol of energy efficiency, on a wide range of consumer products to save up to 30% on related electricity bills.
Use low-flow faucets and shower heads to save on water bills.
Clean or change filters regularly. A dirty furnance or A/C filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool.
Reduce water heater temperature to 130° F to save energy and money on heating water; and wrap the water storage tank in a specially-designed “blanket” to retain the heat.
Seal air leaks and properly insulate to save up to 20% on heating and cooling bills, while also increasing home comfort.

While some of the energy-saving tricks are simple, others—such as air sealing and insulation—may require an experienced contractor to properly test for air leaks, evaluate a home's energy performance, and make the necessary upgrades to achieve your desired results (maximizing comfort and lowering utility costs).

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis improves comfort and energy efficiency with a home energy audit by testing and evaluating where your home uses energy efficiently (and where it needs improvement). As the ASE suggests, sealing air leaks makes your home much more comfortable and will save you money. Dr. Energy Saver offers such services and so much more: attic insulation, heating and cooling, tankless water heaters, basement air sealing, wall insulation, radiant barriers, and solar power.

Dr. Energy Saver serves the Greater St. Louis area, including Chesterfield, Saint Louis, Florrisant, Eureka, Ballwin, Bartelso, Smithton, Millstadt, Freeburg, Imperial, Saint Jacob, Trenton, and other surrounding areas!

Powering Off Your Computer Could Save You Money

Thu, June 7 2012, 00:00:00 -500

How many times have you been told to "turn off that light before you leave the room?" How often did you acually turn off the lights before leaving the room?

It turns out that turning off unused appliances could save you as much as thirty percent on your energy bill, according to an article by Jim Witken in the New York Times.

Witken's article describes a monitor that wirelessly connects to a home power meter and sends real-time data to consumers regarding the amount of energy used by the home. With data about how much energy your home is using, you can see how much turning off those unused computers, televisions, and even lightbulbs in unoccupied rooms will really save you.

Try reducing your energy use today, and keep and eye out for the savings on your next utility bill!

Contact Dr. Energy Saver today to learn more about saving energy and living more comfortably in your home. We proudly service homeowners on both sides of the river.

Dr. Energy Saver Helps Local MO and IL Homeowners Lower Utility Bills Despite Rising Energy Costs

Wed, June 6 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Yahoo! News describes the growing inflation in energy prices and notes that in the future, families and businesses alike may pay ridiculous prices for utilities. Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis can provide Illinois and Missouri homeowners with a solution for future and present energy prices.

Dr. Energy Saver first dispatches an "Energy Doctor" to test and analyze where a home or business uses energy efficiently and where it does not. After completing the energy audit and customizing energy-saving solutions, Dr. Energy Saver works to improve the building's comfort and energy efficiency—ultiimately leading to lower utility bills. Dr. Energy Saver offers solutions ranging from insulation and air sealing attics and basements to tankless water heaters and solar panels.

For Ameren Illinois customers, the savings just got even greater. Ameren Illinois customers may be eligible for up to $5,000 in instant incentives for Dr. Energy Saver's energy-saving upgrades through the ActOnEnergy® Home Energy Performance Program:

Air Sealing: Up to $1,200
- Prevent heating and cooling dollars from escaping through unseen cracks and gaps in your home.
Attic Insulation: Up to $1,400
- Inadequate insulation is a leading cause of energy waste in most homes.
Wall Insulation: Up to $2,400
- Insulation decreases the heating or cooling needed by providing an effective resistance to the flow of heat.

Stop wasting energy and losing money. Schedule a Complete Home (or Business) Energy Check-Up with Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis today, and find out just how much energy and money you could save. We proudly offer our services to homeowners and businesses on both sides of the river including St. Louis, O'Fallon, Belleville and more!

Experts Upgrade Insulation and Attics Following Historic Hail Storm in St. Louis Metro

Fri, May 4 2012, 00:00:00 -500

St. Louis, MO – Local residents are still recovering from the effects of the unexpected hail storm that has damaged many homes and vehicles throughout the St. Louis Metro East areas on Saturday, April 28. The storm, having caused record-breaking damage, is noted to have dropped hail ranging from the size of a quarter to a softball from Central West End to Swansea.

Many roofing and window businesses are experiencing a boom in repairs since the storm, citing a variety of repair work from broken car windows to cracking rooftops. As the storm blew through the area breaking into home and cars, the rain also left its mark.

Water damage in homes can grow quite severe when improperly handled. Insulation can become ineffective and the breeding ground for mold, which can cause musty odors and allergy symptoms.

Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis is one such company offering services to upgrade homes and provide maximum efficiency and quality repairs. Homes that have experienced damage to insulation, attics, and fear moisture problems as a result of this storm are encouraged to contact Dr. Energy Saver for help not only in recovery but for energy efficiency, comfort and health.

These specialists are able to evaluate the damage and prescribe the most affordable and effective repairs. In addition, they offer a home energy audit that diagnoses the source of energy and comfort issues that may in some cases have been present before the storm hit. Dr. Energy Saver can help improve a home’s insulation using trusted materials such as spray foam and cellulose throughout the home from the attic to the crawl space or basement.

Contact Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis today to schedule a free estimate for attic insulation, ductwork and other services in and around St. Louis and Metro East Area, Ballwin, Florissant, Columbia, Troy, Glen Carbon, Barnhart, and more!

2012 Energy Conservation Code Raises Energy Standards

Wed, April 25 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Collinsville, IL - Developed by the Washington, DC-based International Codes Council, the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will be used by federal agencies like the National Park Service, Department of State, U.S. Forest Service and the Veterans Administration. The IECC will eventually be used by many state and municipal building departments all across the country.

Even though the 2012 IECC focuses on new and commercial construction, green building experts, such as Dr. Energy Saver®- a nation-wide network of energy specialists, predict that this new building code will have a major impact on upgrading the energy performance of existing houses. Alex Wilson, founder of BuildingGreen, Inc. and executive editor of Environmental Building News, is certain that the new code will have a major impact on home energy performance.

“Simply having code language finalized doesn't mean that a code is in force,” Wilson explains. “But any time a new building code is adopted, designers, builders, and building owners change their practices. I’m hopeful that we will see a residential version of this code in the not-too-distant future.”

Highlights from the new Energy Conservation Code that will impact existing home performance

More airtight construction. Blower door tests are already performed on houses during a standard home energy audit, to measure and detect energy-wasting air leaks. The IECC calls for mandatory blower door testing on new buildings. In colder climate zones, airtight construction techniques should yield a blower door reading equivalent of just 3 air changes per hour (at 50 Pascals pressure). This tight construction standard reinforces the need to stop energy-wasting air leaks with expert air-sealing work.

Higher insulation levels. The new code stresses the importance of insulation in all areas of a building, from basement to attic. For existing houses, the best opportunities for insulation upgrades are in basement, crawl space and attic zones.
Well-sealed ductwork. Leaky ductwork wastes energy by increasing HVAC system run time. The IECC proposes a maximum leakage of just 4cfm (cubic ft./min.) for every 100sq.ft. of floor area. Even though it’s easy to seal ducts when a house is first built, this work is often neglected or entirely omitted. That’s why duct sealing improvements remain very important for existing houses.

More efficient lighting. Recognizing advancements in efficient lighting technology, the new code calls for at least 75% of a new building’s lighting to be “high efficacy.” Thanks to the widespread availability of low-watt compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and even more efficient LED lights, this standard is just as easy to achieve in existing houses as it is in new construction.

Contact Dr. Energy Saver today to schedule your home energy audit or estimate for any of their services, which includes: ductwork, home insulation, air conditioning in St. Louis, MO and more!

Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday in Missouri Initiates on April 19

Fri, April 20 2012, 00:00:00 -500

St. Louis, MO – Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis is helping spread the word to local homeowners about what’s being tagged as the state’s Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday that has commenced at 12:01 a.m. on April 19th and is scheduled to end at midnight on April 25th. This holiday exempts homeowners and businesses alike from the state sales tax normally applicable to qualifying retail items. Internet purchases also qualify!

According to the state government, the tax exemption is only applicable to $1,5000 on ENERGY STAR® certified new appliances, which can amount to a $60 savings. Each city and county is permitted to decide upon its participation, thus consumers are encouraged to consider the list of approved areas: Adair, Cass, Clay, Gasconade, Johnson, Macon, Moniteau, Nodaway, Platte, St. Genevieve, and Washington.

The following eight items, if labeled as an ENERGY STAR® product, can be bought without sales tax in participating areas during this holiday.

Clothes Washers
Water Heaters
Dishwashers
Air Conditioners
Furnaces
Refrigerators
Freezers
Heat Pumps

Contact Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis for an estimate for their home energy audit and other services such as sealing air leaks and ductwork, and installing home insulation and air conditioning system in St. Louis,Ballwin, Florissant, Columbia, Troy, Glen Carbon, Barnhart, and more!

Dr. Energy Saver Presents Energy Forecast at NARI in St. Louis, MO

Wed, April 18 2012, 00:00:00 -500

St. Louis, MO — At a meeting of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry's (NARI) Greater St. Louis chapter on April 17, Brian Stewart, General Manager of Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis, presented home improvement contractors with an energy forecast, citing the exponential growth of industrialization across the globe and a depleting energy supply as a major case for homeowners and businesses to reduce their need for energy.

A fixed energy supply combined with rapid industrialization creates an ever-increasing global demand for energy that will directly affect homeowners and business owners in the years ahead.

"Questions you should be asking yourself right now," Stewart explained, "should be 'How much energy use can I reduce in my home?' and 'How will home energy reduction impact my family's quality of life and the value of my investment when prices skyrocket?'"

When considering both the law of supply and demand and the reality of inflation, homeowners and businesses are faced with an imminent choice: either reduce one's reliance on expensive energy sources or pay outrageous utility bills. That, Stewart said, is where Dr. Energy Saver can help.

"We are not an energy audit company," Stewart explained. "Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis performs comprehensive energy evaluations to illustrate where you are using, losing, and wasting energy...and we do the work to ensure a maximized rate of return and minimize your energy consumption."

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis provides home air sealing, attic and crawl space insulation, radiant barrier, duct repair, solar power, central air conditioning in St. Louis and all surrounding areas including Ballwin, Florissant, Troy and more! We also provide other services to reduce energy consumption.

"We test it, we fix it, and we save you more money as prices go up," says Stewart.

What does your future hold? Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis would say, "It's up to you."

The above picture shows Brian Stewart with NARI President, Doug Leeker of Leeker Construction Company.

Make Every Day Earth Day With Dr. Energy Saver

Mon, April 16 2012, 00:00:00 -500

For more than 40 years now, we have set aside April 22nd, Earth Day, as a time to increase awareness and appreciation of the earth’s natural environment. Around the globe, individuals, communities and businesses volunteer in large ways and small to protect our resources, to foster learning and educational activities, all in the effort to save our planet.

Whether focusing on recycling, saving energy, indoor air quality, water pollution, sustainability and a myriad of other topics, people are eager to take action to help out around this time of year. They join community clean-ups, turn out the lights, walk vs. drive, and engage kids in workshops and festivals to do their part. And it all helps.

But not for long. To be effective, actions and results, need to be sustained for the long haul. Saving energy is topping the list of environmental protection because its effects are felt in so many ways. Dr. Energy Saver® focuses on saving energy all the time. Not for a day, or a week. All the time. It’s your prescription for lower energy bills®. As home-energy experts, Dr. Energy Saver shows you what you can do in your home to save energy while simultaneously reducing your energy bills, and improving your comfort and health . . . every day of the year.

We aim to provide you with cost effective solutions. In order to do just that, we first like to conduct a home energy audit. Here, we utilize a blower door test and evaluate your whole home—quite different from the typical audit performed by other companies. We then are able to properly diagnose the cause and recommend the best solution. Sometimes our homeowners are surprised to see what’s really causing the problem!

Once complete, we prioritize a list of solutions customized for your home!

Contact Dr. Energy Saver today to schedule an estimate for any of our many services including a home energy audit in Ballwin, Florissant, Columbia, and more!

Lower Utility Bills & Raise Money for Your Organization

Thu, April 12 2012, 00:00:00 -500

St. Louis, MO — Launch a fundraiser today for your organization, and you could help family, friends, and colleagues lower their monthly utility bills—guaranteed.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis is a team of home energy contractors whose mission is to make Missouri and Illinois homes and businesses more comfortable and energy efficient. By performing home energy audits and identifying where a structure is using, losing, and wasting energy, Dr. Energy Saver improves home energy performance with air sealing, spray foam insulation, attic insulation, duct repair, and other home energy upgrades.

Beginning Thursday, April 12, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis is launching the first-ever Home Energy FundSaver™ to help boost charitable contributions while lowering energy bills. Through the Home Energy FundSaver™ program, a registered organization can sell discounted Home Energy Check-ups by Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis for a $25.00 donation (otherwise $49.00). Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis will then match each completed audit with a $24.00 donation, raising $49.00 for your organization for each audit performed.

The Home Energy FundSaver™ program is a great fundraising opportunity for organizations seeking to raise funds for a good cause:

• teams raising money for Relay for Life, Make-a-Wish, etc.
• high school bands raising money for new instruments
• little league teams raising money for new equipment
• youth groups raising money for mission trips

To register your organization with Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis' Home Energy FundSaver™ program, call (877) 755-7575 or request more information via email.

Weatherization and Home Health: Crawl Spaces, Air Sealing, Ductwork in Missouri

Mon, April 9 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Energy efficiency and a healthy home are so intertwined that a conversation of one demands inclusion of the other. After all, considering the time we spend inside our home, we are bound to be affected by its conditions. And affected we are. Total-home weatherization is the best defense against potential health hazards and problems. Here’s a look at how the connection between home health and energy efficiency works. We at Dr. Energy Saver offer the resources and tests to identify and solve your home’s specific problems.

Many homeowners may not realize the link between their home’s condition and unnecessary expenses such as: medical bills, high energy bills, illness, and more! As a company offering a whole-house approach to energy efficiency, comfort and health—Dr. Energy Saver performs a home energy audit to first identify the sources of your home’s problems and discomfort. Next, we suggest the repairs or upgrades to better seal and ventilate your home, decrease the moisture and relative problems, and make way for adequate duct function.

One of the greatest contributors to an unhealthy home and family is the existence of damp and musty environments such as those in basements and crawl spaces, poorly managed rainwater or groundwater, and plumbing leaks are sources of excess moisture in the home. Moisture leads to mold and mildew growth which can cause irritations of the skin, nose and throat, and respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies, and nasal and sinus congestion.

Weatherization defense to control moisture includes crawl space encapsulation; diverting water from the foundation via drainage techniques, sump pump installation and dehumidification.

It’s clear that a more energy-efficient home leads to a healthier one. Understand the connection, make the necessary adjustments, and reap the rewards.

Federal and state initiatives continue to implement an integrated, whole-house approach to addressing the connection between energy efficiency and health allowing more homeowners than ever to benefit. Indoor air quality is a great concern for leading organizations and we aim to improve the quality of the air in your home.

We proudly offer crawl space encapsulation, air sealing and ductwork in Ballwin, Florissant, Columbia, Troy, Glen Carbon, Barnhart, Maryland Heights, and more!

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis Transforms Large Commercial Facility

Tue, March 13 2012, 00:00:00 -500

Alton, IL — Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis is bringing its energy-saving solutions to a large commercial facility in Alton, Illinois resulting in lower energy bills for the owner and more comfortable working conditions for employees. The 11-day job involves applying spray foam insulation to 17,000 square feet of walls and ceilings and applying an intumescent (fire-resistant) coating over the spray foam.

Citing “a great job currently in progress,” the owner of Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis was contacted after the customer who purchased this building recognized the need and potential for major energy savings. The job is expected to be completed in mid-March.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis provides homeowners and businesses with the products and services they need to increase their energy efficiency, save money and enjoy energy efficiency.

Their one-stop shopping company offers home energy audits, heating and cooling services, water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, air sealing, insulation, ductwork, and much more. Serving the entire greater St. Louis area, Dr. Energy Saver is dedicated to finding and implementing customized energy solutions for its customers.

Contact Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis today to schedule a free estimate for their above mentioned services including heating and cooling systems in St. Louis, Florissant, Ballwin, and all surrounding cities and towns!

St. Louis Lint Trap Kit a Fire Hazard

Wed, November 30 2011, 00:00:00 -500

ST. LOUIS, MO — The clothes dryer is a covenient alternative to line drying clothes, but the appliance can be a fire hazard and pose a serious threat to indoor air quality when improperly installed or maintained.

Energy Doctor Chad Kues of Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis came across a defective lint trap kit while performing a home energy audit in St. Louis.

"In the basement, we noticed the lint trap was not being vented to the outside," said Kues. "Instead, the clothes dryer was vented to a lint trap kit inside the basement laundry room. "Everything in the basement—the ductwork, the rim joist, the ceiling—was covered in lint."

Kues considers this an absolute fire hazard with the combustion appliances just ten feet from the lint trap that unfortunately is not working properly.

According to a 2007 report from the U.S. Fire Administration, clothes dryer fires account for about 15,600 structure fires, 15 deaths, and 400 injuries annually. The report also noted that 80% of clothes dryer fires in structures occur in residential buildings.

Builder's Best, one manufacturer of venting systems, comments on the matter.

"Venting your dryer to the outside is imperative!" reports Builder's Best. "Indoor venting systems, such as lint trap kits are generally inadequate to handle lint accumulation. They must be cleaned constantly and if they are not, they pose a fire hazard."

The lingering lint dust can also be an allergen hazard. Venting into the attic, basement, or crawl space can reduce indoor air quality and encourage mold buildup. In this case, lint dust was also drawn into the air duct return on the HVAC unit and distributed throughout the home.

By discovering where each home is using, losing, and wasting energy, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis can provide solutions for homeowners to stop wasting energy and start saving money.

Homeowners looking to make their home more healthy, energy efficient, and comfortable can contact Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis at 888-288-1600 and schedule a complete home energy checkup with Dr. Chad Kues.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis Grants Wishes This Christmas For Hoyleton Ministries

Tue, November 22 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Collinsville, IL – Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis has adopted the Christmas wish lists of seven children from the Hoyleton Children’s Home.

This holiday season, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis is taking on the “Energy Elves Are Coming to Town” slogan as their “Workshop Adopts Ten Christmas Lists” for the special children at the Hoyleton Home.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis’ owners and employees will be wrapping and donating 70 gifts to the Hoyleton Children’s Home. They will then be visiting the home to watch as the children open their Christmas presents.

Hoyleton Youth and Family Services has been meeting the needs of children and families for more than 115 years. Their ministry has grown since originally opening its doors in 1895 as Hoyleston Orphan’s Home. They now have Hoyleton Youth and Family Services, Puentes de Esperanza and the Hoyleton Children’s Home Foundation.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis specializes in insulation, air sealing, water heaters and gas heating in St. Louis. Visit them online for a home energy audit in St. Louis, St. Charles, O’Fallon, and neighboring areas.

Visit Hoyleton Children’s Home Foundation online.

Dr. Energy Saver Hands Out Sweet Treats at Trick-or-Treat Main Street

Mon, October 31 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Belleville, IL — On Friday, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis handed out thousands of sweet treats at Trick-or-Treat Main Street. While children raided the candy bowl to satisfy their sweet tooth, parents scheduled their home energy audit in St. Louis or other nearby areas, with Dr. Energy Saver. Children sought candy, and homeowners wanted help lowering their monthly utility bills—guaranteed.

Radio Disney hosted the family-friendly event accompanied by Rampage and the St. Louis Rams Cheerleaders, GCS Credit Union, and other local businesses. The event provided a safe place for local area children to trick-or-treat, play spooktacular games, and win some of the creepiest prizes around.

Woods Basement Systems, a sister company to Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis, raffled off a ghoulish Halloween basket full of treats and gave costumed creepers and their parents information about their valuable services.

For those who dared to miss the first few innings of Game 7 of The World Series in exchange for lots of fun and candy, James E. Lord provided score updates following each inning.

Looking to save money and improve your home's energy expenses? Contact Dr. Energy Saver today to schedule your home energy audit and free estimate for our valuable services including, attic insulation, gas heating, geothermal heating, spray foam insulation in St. Louis -- and more!!

Home Energy Audit in Collinsville Reveals Thousands in Savings From ActOnEnergy

Tue, October 11 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Collinsville, IL – On September 9, 2011, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis performed a home energy audit to help a local homeowner receive nearly $2,000 in the Ameren Illinois ActOnEnergy® Home Performance savings, after the results revealed air leaks and more. The story can now be seen on “All About Business St. Louis,” on October 16, 2011.

Though this may be the energy experts first appearance on “All About Business St. Louis,” they are quite accustom to helping homeowners save money and energy, and regain a comfortable home.

Only a month has passed since Dr. Energy Saver provided Sue Thompson a home energy audit—an analysis that changed her life!

“The $49 was well worth it," said Thompson. "I always wondered why the master bathroom got so cold with the door closed."

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis charges a meager $49 for what Thompson has proven might just accrue thousands in ROI. Said audit revealed a missing butterfly valve on the bath fan—among other air leaks throughout the home – which caused a significant amount of energy loss, drafts, and discomfort.

"Now, I know I'll be more comfortable," Mrs. Thompson said, "and I look forward to lower utility bills...especially this winter."

To see Dr. Energy Saver in action and learn more about the ActOnEnergy® program, watch "All About Business St. Louis" Sunday, October 16th at 9:00 a.m. on KPLR-11.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis is the trusted expert for a home energy audit in St. Louis and surrounding Metro East area! They offer many services to help homeowners in the upcoming chilly months—from removing ice damming, to installing hot water heaters and spray foam insulation in St. Louis.

About the Ameren Illinois ActOnEnergy® Program

ActOnEnergy® is a program of Ameren Illinois, which delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and 813,000 natural gas customers in downstate Illinois. The Ameren Illinois mission is to meet their customer’s energy needs in a safe, reliable, efficient and environmentally responsible manner. The Ameren Illinois service area covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com.

Illinois Homeowner Saves Over $2000 on Energy Saving Upgrades

Wed, October 5 2011, 00:00:00 -500

UPDATE: Diagnostic tests post-upgrade reported better home energy performance than orginally anticipated, which provided the homeowner with an even higher total savings of more than $2000.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis has spent the past year helping hundreds of homeowners lower their monthly utility bills through home energy upgrades. Most recently, the Illinois-based company helped two Collinsville, Illinois homeowners save $1900 instantly on energy-saving upgrades thanks to the ActOnEnergy® Home Energy Performance (HEP) Program.

One of the homeowners was thrilled to share her story. "The $49 was well worth it," said Sue Thompson. "I always wondered why the master bathroom got so cold with the door closed."

Dr. Energy Saver's home energy audit revealed a missing butterfly valve on the bath fan—among other air leaks throughout the home—which caused a significant amount of energy loss, drafts, and discomfort.

"Now, I know I'll be more comfortable," Mrs. Thompson said, "and I look forward to lower utility bills...especially this winter."

By making upgrades, which may include air sealing your home, adding attic insulation or a radiant barrier, or even sealing duct work, Dr. Energy Saver is dedicated to making home energy savings accessible to every homeowner interested in saving energy and money. To see Dr. Energy Saver in action and learn more about the ActOnEnergy® program, watch "All About Business St. Louis" Sunday, October 16th at 9:00 A.M. on KPLR-11.

ActOnEnergy® is a service of the Ameren Illinois Utilities that provides energy saving resources and incentive programs, along with safety tips to residents and businesses throughout central and southern Illinois. Ameren Illinois provides energy services to 1.2 million electric customers and more than 800,000 natural gas customers across the southern two-thirds of Illinois.

Dr. Energy Saver Franchise Founders To Present At HVAC Comfortech 2011

Thu, September 8 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Dr. Energy Saver® founders, Larry Janesky and Tom Casey, Jr. are preparing to make waves at this year’s HVAC Comfortech—as part of HVACR Week. We at Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis are so thankful to be a part of a franchise that truly aims to help others and improve our own abilities.

Larry and Tom will be hosting seminars, Larry’s class entitled “The Highest Calling” is named after his most recent published novel.

We want to invite you to attend this spectacular week! Where you can learn of influential products and services, hear from distinguished speakers, and network with fellow contractors.

HVAC Comfortech is being held at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN from September, 21-23, 2011.

Read more about Dr. Energy Saver at HVAC Comfortech.

We are your local Dr. Energy Saver trained and prepared to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient! Contact us today for a free estimate for our many services including air sealing and spray foam insulation in St. Louis and nearby locations!

Affordable Ways To Enjoy A Comfortable Home

Mon, August 29 2011, 00:00:00 -500

It can be a struggle for any homeowner to maintain a warm, comfortable temperature during the winter months without breaking the bank. Experts would agree that your home's cooling and heating cost accounts for nearly one half of your home's energy budget, and it's vital for the air conditioning and heating (HVAC) units to work efficiently.

The first step is to have a professional inspect your home's heating system to be sure its performance is running as efficient and effectively as possible, so you are using less fuel, putting money back into your pocketbook. If your heating unit is running efficiently, it allows you to better control the temperature, stay warm and cozy, allowing you and your family to be as comfortable as possible throughout the entire winter season.

One of the most important and overlooked processes is replacing the filters on your furnace. This should be done at least every three months to assure efficiency of your heating unit. A clean air filter allows your home's heating system to operate smoothly, effectively and efficiently, cutting costs, reducing your heating bill, keeping your home warmer. Air filters for your furnace can be purchased at any home improvement center or hardware store.

Always have your heating unit professionally serviced at least once per year, before the long, cold winter season begins. This will assure your heating unit is running efficiently and safely, protecting you and your family's comfort level and safety while saving you money.

The Importance of Insulation

There are a lot of myths about the importance of insulation in your attic. Regardless what the myths claim, the insulation in your attic is more important than you may think. Insulation is a barrier between the outside elements; cold, heat, moisture and humidity. Replacing the old insulation in your attic or adding new insulation to the space will be less expensive to heat and maintain to a comfortable temperature year round.

Appliances

Appliances you use daily in your home aren’t always the first to be accused of wasting energy and money. In reality, appliances can cost you a lot of unnecessary expense if they are outdated. It is best to replace all old appliances with new, energy-efficient models. This will help cut costs and save you money.

Always unplug any unused electronics. Although these are not in use, they can waste electricity and money. It can be bothersome to unplug and re-plug in appliances, so it may be time to invest in a power strip for those occasionally used appliances. This allows the power strip to be turned off until needed.

Reduce Your Thermostat

Many homeowners overlook reducing their thermostat during the winter months, but it can save money. Consider setting your thermostat at 68 degrees instead of 70 degrees, and adding an extra layer of clothes. By simply adding an extra pair of socks, a sweatshirt, a pair of sweatpants or a throw blanket could allow you to maintain your comfort level, without compromising you and your family.

Contact Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis today to schedule a home energy audit in St. Louis, MO and nearby! These professionals can evaluate the situation, determine what suits your needs, and perform the repairs in a time effective manner.

Incentives Make Energy Upgrades EASY for Ameren Illinois Customers

Thu, August 25 2011, 00:00:00 -500

With this summer going down in the record books as one of the hottest since the 1930’s, many of you may be noticing that it is impossible to get away from the scorching temperatures—even in your own home. Have you noticed that your air conditioner is constantly running or that you have rooms that are uncomfortably warm or stuffy? Lowering the thermostat may not be the answer.

A local Illinois-based company, Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis, has spent the past year helping hundreds of homeowners lower their monthly utility bills through home energy upgrades. Dr. Energy Saver’s skilled Energy Doctors perform home energy check-ups, assessing the ten energy vital signs of your home. From there, Doctors recommend how to save money, and make your home more comfortable, safer and healthier.

Not only can Dr. Energy Saver’s Doctors diagnose where your home is losing energy and wasting money, but the company also offers its own in-house crews to install any needed retrofits.

By making upgrades, which may include air sealing your home, adding attic insulation or a radiant barrier, or even sealing duct work, Dr. Energy Saver is dedicated to making home energy savings accessible to every homeowner interested in saving energy and money. A new partnership with Ameren Illinois has made home energy retrofits even more affordable and rewarding.

Ameren Illinois Customers—before you make energy-saving upgrades to your home, find out if you qualify for special discounts through the ActOnEnergy® Home Energy Performance (HEP) program. The HEP program offers incentives through registered ActOnEnergy^® Program Allies who are BPI certified insulation and air sealing specialists.

As one of Ameren’s newest ActOnEnergy® Program Allies, Dr. Energy Saver is able to offer instant incentives up to five thousand dollars, to help homeowners save on home performance measures. As a program ally, Dr. Energy Saver can help you determine your eligibility, which is based on your home’s specific energy needs.

For more information on Dr. Energy Saver, or how Ameren Illinois customers can save money on home energy upgrades through the ActOnEnergy® HEP Program, please call (866) 827-6630.

Seeking Public Relations/Social Marketing Interns for Fall 2011

Mon, August 8 2011, 00:00:00 -500

COMPANY: Woods Energy Solutions, Inc.

POSITION: Public Relations/Social Marketing Intern

POSITIONS AVAILABLE: 3

HOURS PER WEEK: 15-20

COMPENSATION: Performance-Based Incentives

OVERVIEW: Woods Energy Solutions, Inc. is hiring a limited number of public relations and social marketing interns for Fall 2011. Work with leading home improvement professionals from Illinois and Missouri to enhance brand awareness and help generate new business throughout the Greater St. Louis Area.

QUALIFICATIONS: Woods Energy Solutions, Inc. is looking for self-starters who are passionate about networking and skilled in public speaking and communication. Individuals must demonstrate the ability to complete basic public relations writing assignments and maintain a blog, have an active understanding of social media and web design, an ability to interact professionally with clients, and possess good judgment. A working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are a plus. You must have your own computer and/or smartphone (owning a Mac will make a huge difference). Candidates must be of junior standing (65+ credit hours completed) at an accredited College or University.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Interns will be responsible for drafting basic public relations and marketing materials including (but not limited to): press releases, case studies, blog posts, and other materials as directed. Interns may have the opportunity to brainstorm with department managers and present new ideas and strategies. Interns will be expected to work in the office at least 15 hours per week and spend at least 5 hours per week engaging the community and networking. Interns will also help plan media events.

REQUIRED MAJORS: Marketing, Mass Communication, Media Arts, Graphic Design, or Public Relations

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, at least 2 writing samples, and complete the following instructions:

1. Provide a link to your blog --or-- submit an example blog demonstrating 1 week's worth of posts regarding current energy-saving solutions and other home improvement trends and innovations.
2. Include a physical copy or link to your portfolio.

SEND APPLICATION AND MATERIALS TO:
Melissa Bednarz
Woods Energy Solutions, Inc.
524 Vandalia St.
Collinsville, IL 62234

Is your attic freezing in the Winter?

Wed, August 3 2011, 00:00:00 -500

The temperature of your attic is relative to the overall comfort of your home, and the affordability of your utility bills. If your attic is freezing in the winter, it is probably because there is inadequate insulation contributing to your discomfort.

If you have been endlessly trying to heat your freezing attic, you are most likely spending more energy and money than necessary.

Insulation

Insulating your home is very important and has a huge effect on the temperature of your attic. Heat flow out of your home is what makes the attic feel so cold. You can increase the comfort in your attic by installing insulation to provide a resistance to the heat flowing out of your attic.

It is important to have insulation because then your HVAC system won't have to work as hard to heat spaces that are releasing the hot air. Adding insulation is not hard, but installing the right type for your home is very important. There are many types of insulation including cellulose insulation, fiberglass insulation, rigid foam insulation, and spray foam insulation.

Types of Insulation

Cellulose insulation: This type of insulation is made up of recycled newspaper and is treated with non-toxic chemical compounds to resist insects, mold, and fire. These characteristics make cellulose insulation a very "green" choice for your home.

Cellulose insulation would be a great addition to any home because when it is densely packed it blocks heat even better than the popular fiberglass insulation.

Fiberglass insulation: Fiberglass insulation is very popular among homeowners and is composed of very fine glass fibers. It can be installed in blanket or loose-fill form. This type of insulation is great in blanket form because the material is safe to work with and not as irritating than other types of insulation. In loose-fill form, fiberglass insulation is installed with a blower in attics or walls. Installing fiberglass insulation is a great solution to make your attic a more comfortable temperature.

Rigid foam insulation: This type of insulation is effective for warming up your attic because its resistance to thermal heat is very high. Rigid foam insulation can be on your own, but it is best to have it installed by a professional just to make sure the job is done right. You can feel more comfortable knowing that after rigid foam insulation is installed, your attic will not be freezing any more.

Spray foam insulation: Spray foam insulation is a great solution for your freezing attic because of its ability to fill the tiniest spaces and gaps in your attic. This will make it so the heat doesn't have anywhere to escape and the attic will be a more comfortable temperature in the winter.

Who to Hire

Selecting that right contractor is very important when it comes to solving the problem of your freezing attic. Not all companies have qualified professionals that will know that perfect solution for your home. Making sure you do some research into the professional you choose to install your insulation will make the experience more comfortable for you as a homeowner.

Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis has qualified professionals that are perfect for looking into the source of and coming up with a solution for your freezing attic. We know the facts and are familiar with many come energy problems and solutions. For more information about air sealing or attic insulation in Missouri, contact Dr. Energy Saver&reg today. We can make any home a more comfortable place all year round!

Department of Energy Releases Campaign to Save Money by Saving Energy

Thu, July 28 2011, 00:00:00 -500

St. Louis, MO - A new awareness campaign undertaken by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) echoes what Dr. Energy Saver&reg has been advocating since the company's inception in 2009. The DOE's "Save Money by Saving Energy" initiative emphasizes the benefits of investing in energy-saving improvements thus enabling homeowners to spend less on utilities allowing them to spend more on other things that family members enjoy.

In addition, the DOE is promoting home energy audits, using programmable thermostats to reduce heating & cooling costs by more than $100/yr., and plugging in power strips to cut energy losses from phantom loads. The DOE describes the home energy audit on their Energy Savers Website:

"A home energy assessment, also known as a home energy audit, is the first step to assess how much energy your home consumes and to evaluate what measures you can take to make your home more energy efficient. An assessment will show you problems that may, when corrected, save you significant amounts of money over time."

Dr. Energy Saver&reg, a nationwide network of contractors with expertise in assessing and improving home energy performance, is also dedicated to making home energy savings accessible to every homeowner interested in saving energy and money on utility expenses.

Larry Walters, the CEO of Dr. Energy Saver&reg, points out that homeowners who have invested in energy-saving improvements are able to enjoy benefits that go beyond saving money.

"There's no doubt that lower utility costs are a major incentive for making energy-saving improvements," explains Walters. "but we also like to point out that homeowners can expect other rewards, like improved year-round comfort and a healthier, safer home. Air sealing and insulation upgrades greatly reduce the likelihood of damage from mold and ice dams," Walters continues, "and surveys done by the National Association of Home Builders have shown that "greener" homes have greater resale value."

About Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis

Like the DOE, Dr. Energy Saver&reg has a full-featured website where homeowners can learn more about the different features, components and conditions that govern home energy performance. From central air conditioning to weatherstripping details, spray foam insulation to tankless water heater installation -- the territory of home energy performance is fully covered.

In fact, the book authored by company founders Larry Janesky and Tom Casey does an excellent job of explaining the "whole-house" approach to energy savings that building scientists advocate as the optimum strategy for improving home energy performance.

Contact the experts at Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis to learn more about how to save money and save energy to make for a more comfortable home environment! These experts are your resource for a home energy audit in Collinsville, IL and the St. Louis and Metro East areas.

Increase Your Home's Comfort and Efficiency with Solar Energy

Wed, July 20 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Looking into alternate energy sources is an excellent way to make the planet a better place. Solar energy is just one example of alternative energy that uses a renewable resource to power different things in your home.

Sun, Sun, Sun

Solar energy comes from the sun. The sun is a renewable resource that civilizations have depended on for centuries. Even back to the ancient Egyptians and North American Indian tribes, the sun was worshipped because they believed that everything came from the sun.

The sun can provide energy for small things like growing plants, to massive needs like contributing up to 70% of a hotels' power. Taking advantage of solar energy is ideal as it will never run out. It is everywhere around the world and does not pollute or disturb the environment. Solar energy is one of the "greenest" forms of energy out there-- now that would be a great addition to any home.

How Solar Energy Works

Solar panels and photovoltaic cells are the two forms in which solar energy is captured. Solar panels capture the sun's heat and use it for water heating or space heating. Photovoltaic cells convert the sun's rays directly into electricity.

Both methods of capturing solar energy are effective and energy efficient. Investing in solar energy is definitely valuable, as it works excellently for heating water, spaces, and providing electricity.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Renewable energy, as the sun will never go away
Production doesn't create unnecessary noises
Can be collected anywhere in the world
May warrant governmental tax credits and incentives
Does not cause pollution
Can be collected locally, no need for outsource
Simple installation: solar panels or photovoltaic cells
Supports national energy independence

Where to put Solar Panels

Solar energy is usually harnessed using solar panels that are installed on a home's roof. They are most effective when placed somewhere that receives the maximum amount of sunlight.

Solar panels can also be installed on pole mounts or flush mounts. The cheapest way to mount solar panels is by flush mounts on your roof. These mounts hold the solar panel slightly above the roof's surface so that there is ample air flow underneath it and it doesn't get too hot.

Pole mounts can be placed in fields, on telephone poles, or utility poles. There are also pole mounts that track where the sun is so that it is exposed to the greatest amount of sunlight at all times. By installing this type of solar panel you are able to increase the amount of solar energy you retain.

Recap

Solar energy is a great thing to grab hold of and use within your home. It is definitely something worth looking into and investing in so that you can save money on your utility bills and on the energy you use. Using solar energy through solar panels or photovoltaic cells is energy efficient, makes no noise, and is the future of electricity and heating.

For more information about solar energy and other alternative energy sources, contact Dr. Energy Saver® St. Louis. Schedule a home energy audit in Chesterfield and the surrounding areas. Dr. Energy Saver St. Louis will help you save money and energy throughout the year!

The Importance of Installing Energy-Efficient Windows

Wed, July 6 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Every winter, as the temperatures begin to drop, homeowners everywhere begin to scope out hardware and home builder supply stores for the latest in replacement windows. Everyone wants to keep those expensive heating bills down and keep out the cold winter air. During those hot summer months, homeowners do not tend to think about old leaky windows that are ineffective in keeping the cold air in, and the warm air out.

When temperatures start to rise, it's time to crank up the air conditioner. Unfortunately, those leaky windows allow some of the cool air to escape. This can be hard on the wallet. Replacing the leaky windows can save you money, helping to keep heating and cooling costs down. In addition, such a replacement will increase the value of your home, and make your home a much more pleasant environment during the winter and summer months where the temperatures are at their most extreme.

Why We Ignore Leaky Windows

Cold air naturally flows into a vacuum that is created by warm air that is rising. We feel the air movement or "drafts" from leaky windows in the winter months, and yet we feel no "warm drafts" through the same leaky, inefficient windows in the hot months. This is one of the reasons why homeowners do not think about replacing leaky windows during the summer season.

We must keep in mind that all of the cold air that is seeping into your house in the winter is seeping out of your house during the summer, which can be very costly to the homeowner. Such qualities force the homeowner to run the air conditioner at maximum for longer periods of time in order to try and keep the rooms and living spaces at a comfortable temperature for the whole family.

Replace Your Inefficient Windows

Leaving the doors and windows open is a sure sign of good weather and summer, but with the rising temperatures during the hottest months of summer, those sweltering temperatures will have you wanting to use that air conditioner. With those inefficient and leaky windows letting out all that cool air, your pocketbook and budget will suffer.

The majority of older homes did not come with the most energy-efficient windows. In fact, the majority of non-custom built homes are assembled with the cheapest windows available on the market. Replacement windows that are energy-efficient can save you a significant amount of money on your home air-conditioning and heating costs.

Benefits

Replacing your windows can save you money year round. Higher-quality replacement windows add value to your home, and are a great way to make your house a more comfortable and livable place year around.

Ask the Experts

It is a good idea to contact a professional replacement window expert to help you understand your options. The expert will listen carefully to your needs, answer all of your questions, and they can provide you with an estimate based on your specific needs. A replacement window professional can help you get the best quality energy saving replacement windows and walk you through the installation process. From measuring the windows to be replaced, to the final installation, skilled replacement window installers will ensure that you are 100% satisfied with your new windows, and you will enjoy your new windows for years to come.

Contact the window experts at Dr. Energy Saver™ St. Louis today for an estimate for replacement windows in St. Louis and all surrounding areas.

Save Money and Stay Cool This Summer

Wed, July 6 2011, 00:00:00 -500

Central air conditioners are considered to be more efficient than room air conditioners. It is important to have the right size air conditioner to meet your home's needs. Larger units, while thought to be generally more efficient, will not operate efficiently if they are over-sized. This will cause them to cycle on and off more frequently rather than running for longer, more efficient periods.

High efficiency units generally cost more, but these units can pay for themselves overtime by reducing your energy consumption, helping keep those bills lower. Newer air conditioning units can use up to half the electricity that older air conditioners use.

Helpful Tips to Help You Save Money

Homeowners can save money by setting the thermostat on the air conditioning unit at 25 degrees C or higher. Each half-degree setting below 26 degrees C will increase your energy consumption by approximately 8%. Keep the indoor and outdoor coils clean and free from dirt and dust build up, as this is the most common cause for poor efficiency. Be sure to check the refrigerant charge, if you are unable to do this, you may need a service contractor to check the fluid to adjust it properly for maximum cooling efficiency.

Other Tips to Help Keep Costs Down in Summer

To help keep costs down and help to keep cool in the summer months, try not using dish washing machines and other heat generating appliances until later in the evening as the temperatures cool down. Keep the house closed tight during the day, and shading the east and west windows in your home can help considerably to keep things cooler.

It is always important to have your unit maintained regularly by cleaning and replacing those air filters. A clean air filter means less air resistance for the air conditioner and makes a big difference in the air quality of your home.

Another good way to keep those costs down on your cooling bills is to refrain from cooling empty rooms. You can save money by turning off the unit when no one is home, and if you must keep the air conditioner running while you are away, use a timed thermostat to help instead of running the unit all day. It is not going to help by cranking the unit on maximum, as this will not cool a room in your home any faster.

The best and most efficient way to cool your home is to set the thermostat at 78 degrees F and give it time to cool down.

Heat Sources to Keep in Mind:

There are many heat sources around your home that can keep your air conditioner from running at peak performance, and steal your cool air. Incandescent light bulbs are one of those sources which give off heat; it is a good idea to switch to fluorescent bulbs or the more efficient LED light bulbs. Another common source of heat are those long, hot showers that raise the air temperature inside your home, and add humidity to the air which makes it feel even warmer. Just by trying a few of these helpful tips can save you substantial money in your wallet, and help to keep your home nice and cool this summer.

Contact Dr. Energy Saver™ St. Louis today for more information about ways to stay cool this summer and use less energy. They are your trusted air conditioning contractor in St. Louis.

Winter in St. Louis: Tax Credits and Programs to Help you Stay Warm.

Mon, January 24 2011, 00:00:00 -500

It's been a very tough winter to this point, and we are far from over. Because the average home is currently consuming 2 to 3 times the energy it needs, and because the bulk of this consumption (43%) goes toward heating and cooling, by the time spring arrives, many Missourians will have spent much more than they should just to keep warm.

Sadly, many families will have spent more than they can actually afford.

Fortunately, there is help out there. Help to significantly reduce your heating costs and bills, and help for low income families to pay for them.

Elderly, disabled and low income families can get help paying for heat through government and community funded programs such as Missouri Weatherization Assistance Program, Missouri Low Income Energy Assistance Program, Black Hills Cares, and the "Heat Share" program by the Salvation Army.

Click here to see all the other energy assistance programs in Missouri.

Homeowners seeking ways to cut down high heating costs, can perform energy saving upgrades and take advantage of Federal Tax Credits for home energy efficiency upgrades. These incentives, which many believed would end in 2010, were extended up to the end of 2011 by U.S. Congress.

Tax credits are awarded for consumer purchase of energy-saving products and upgrades. Extended tax credits cover window incentives (up to $200), oil and gas furnace and boiler incentives to 95 percent efficiency (from $150-$200) and water heater and wood heating system incentives (up to $300).

To make sure you invest your money wisely, call Dr. Energy Saver™ St. Louis for a complete home energy audit. Our comprehensive home energy checkup, performed by certified technicians and using state-of-the-art home energy diagnostic tests and procedures, will help you establish which improvements and upgrades will help you save the most money per each dollar invested.

The video below show you what to expect from a Dr. Energy Saver Home Energy Audit.

Energy Efficiency From The Top Down

Mon, January 24 2011, 00:00:00 -500

For some homeowners, the attic represents valuable storage space, or even an extra room in the house. They are deeply affected by the dramatic seasonal temperature changes in the attic, and they can feel it.

However, even if you do not use the attic at all, due to the way air moves in buildings, you're home are still being significantly impacted by everything that happens in the attic. And the effects, although not usually felt in terms of discomfort, usually manifest themselves in extremely high energy bills.

How high? Studies show that the average U.S. home consumes 2 to 3 times more energy than needed. And the bulk of a typical home's energy consumption (42%) goes toward heating and cooling.

Now think that during summer, a poorly insulated attic will reach scorching temperatures. As the attic heats up, so will your home, making your Air Conditioning System work harder.

During winter things aren't much better. The heated air in the house will rise, and if your attic is not properly air sealed, it will escape through the attic. As it does, new and cold air, will be sucked in from the outside through openings in the lower portion of the building (usually basement or crawl space), forcing your heating equipment to work overtime, to heat up all that new air.

It is a never ending cycle of chronic energy waste, year round. Which is why, at Dr. Energy Saver™ St. Louis, we believe that an energy efficient home begins with an energy efficient attic. As part of our comprehensive energy savings approach, we will evaluate your attic and, using state-of-the-art testing procedures and equipment, we will show you exactly how much energy is being wasted through your attic and how much you can save by improving attic insulation, air sealing and ventilation, or installing an energy-saving radiant vapor barrier.

This is a video explaining just how attics work and how you can make them work for you.