What’s the Deal Here?



Have you ever thought of reducing the energy your home uses?  Have you ever looked at the cost associated with energy-related products and services?  Do you even care?

Well, as a realtor, an investor, a builder and a home-owner, I do care, but there are many factors to consider.  The overwhelming issue that tends to dictate whether or not I will invest, is usually the project’s cost and return on investment.

For instance, a while ago I spent the time and aggravation to purchase and install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) throughout my whole house.  I bought them from Canadian Tire and Home Depot , rather than the dollar store, so the cost was significant.  Highly recommended for energy efficiency and long life span, they were supposed to outlast regular bulbs by many, many hours. 

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for me.  Most of them blew within a few months and boy do they stink when they blow up.  One Sunday, just before we headed out for Church , I noticed a blown CFL in my kitchen light fixture.  I quickly grabbed a chair and jumped up and to replace it.  When I tried to turn the bulb, the thinner glass actually broke in my hands and cut me.  (I still have all my fingers, just a little less blood.)

Then I start to read the warning labels on these CFL’s . . . TOXIC!!  Pregnant or nursing mothers and children should be evacuated from the room.  Needless to say, with small children in my home, I have not bought another one since and never will.

Now, how about the cost of these things??  I will never get my money out of them!  Not sure what the big hype was all about, but I figure it’s all a scam.  Next time I go and try and be energy conscious, I will be cautious enough to research and ask around more.

I have done many other things to help the environment and save on energy bills, but we will get into that next time.

Have you thought about reducing energy use in your home?  How have you been able to do it in a cost effective way?  Feel free to comment here.

Image Credit:  Retreived from http://www.pollsb.com/photos_handler/o/44370-switch_energy_saving_light_bulbs.jpg, October 4, 2011.

New Listing: 233 Cherry Street, Stayner

Welcome to this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Century Home.  The lot is huge and the 2 story barn would be a great workshop or garage.  For more information or to view the inside of the home, book an appointment with Joseph today. 

Please ignore the cat's input throughout the video.  Not sure he wants us to sell the house.  :)