ENERGY MATTERS Tracking Home Energy Use Is Now Easier

(NAPSI)-Saving energy and money while staying comfortable at home is easier when you know how much you use. To help, you can now get real-time energy use information on your Microsoft Hohm profile. Microsoft has joined forces with Blue Line Innovations to wirelessly upload your real-time energy use directly into your customized Hohm profile. This gives customers instant access to detailed information that exceeds what you may be getting from your monthly bill. Blue Line's PowerCost Monitor is safe and easy to install, and viewing the real-time energy use data through your Hohm profile allows you to see how specific actions help save money. You will receive personalized recommendations for lowering your energy consumption, such as: Heating and Cooling • Adjust your thermostat a few degrees before you leave the house or as you head to bed. • Turn down the temperature on your water heater. Lowering it from 140 to 120 degrees could save you up to 10 percent. Appliances • Charge electronics with solar power or other technologies. • Clean your dryer's lint trap after each use. • String your laundry on a clothesline instead of using a dryer. • Set your computer to hibernate or use sleep mode when idle. Walls, Windows and Doors • Add attic insulation with a high R-value to improve home heating. • Check caulking and weather stripping. • Check double-pane windows for broken seals. • See that attic flooring insulation is at least at R-19. House Exterior • When reroofing, add rigid insulation sheathing to your roof. • When replacing siding, add external sheathing insulation. Lighting • Use energy-efficient light-bulbs such as CFL and LED lights. • Hit the lights when they aren't in use. While the PowerCost Monitor enhances the Hohm experience, anyone can use Hohm today to receive advice. Visit www.microsoft-hohm.com. Enter your address to get your personalized "Hohm Score," which will show you how your home measures up to others in your neighborhood or across the country. You can then customize your profile by answering a handful of questions about your home, such as recent home improvements and square footage. You'll get a personalized energy report, complete with tips on how to save energy, home improvement suggestions, project pricing and even estimates for how long it will take to earn back your investment.

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