To help homeowners manage increased heating bills, the Home Report Card online interactive tool is designed to help homeowners identify where they may be losing energy and money. The quiz covers such subjects as insulation levels, types of lighting and appliances, windows, and fireplaces. Based on the homeowner's answers, a customized "grade" is computed, and recommendations are given on how to improve the energy efficiency level of the home.

Making a few energy efficiency improvements to the home can save up to 30 percent on heating bills. And reducing the amount of energy used to heat homes will be an even bigger issue this winter, as the Energy Information Administration predicts average natural gas bills across the country will rise five percent this winter as compared to last year. This will affect approximately 44 percent of homeowners nationwide, as natural gas is the predominant heating source.

"As energy experts, we believe in taking a whole-house approach to energy efficiency," said John Pagano, Owens Corning's vice president and general manager of residential insulation. "The Home Report Card tool provides a fun, interactive way for consumers to help save energy and money on their bills this winter and beyond."

The www.energysavers.gov Web site is an educational resource developed by the DOE and Owens Corning. Those who visit the Owens Corning site directly will find the Home Report Card interactive tool at www.owenscorning.com/homereportcard.

Publication date: 11/10/2003