ASSEMBLYMAN BRIAN KOLB |
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Home Energy Saving Tips |
Dear Neighbor, The mercury may be dropping, but energy prices are on the rise. Not being able to adequately heat homes this winter poses very serious dangers to the well-being of cold-climate residents - that means the Finger Lakes and Central New York regions, and the entire Northeast portion of the United States. Low- and fixed-income families are at an especially high risk of not being able to afford their energy bills this winter. High gas prices are burdensome, but high heating bills can be deadly. In Albany, I have joined my colleagues in efforts to provide additional relief to our state’s most needy. Many people take a warm home for granted - I want warm homes for all. This brochure contains valuable information about how to get help paying for heating costs and energy-efficiency upgrades as well as tips on how to lower energy consumption. |
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Sincerely,
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Energy Cost Cutting Proposals |
With energy prices at record highs, any relief is welcome. The following proposals may help ease the burden of skyrocketing energy costs.
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Need Heating Assistance? |
HEAP |
The Home Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded project administered by each state to benefit its low-income residents. Benefit amounts are based on household income and residents’ ages. Homeowners with children under the age of 6 and adults who are over 60 are considered vulnerable populations and may receive higher benefits. The household gross monthly income and size limits for the 2004-05 program are listed to the right. For information on applying, call toll-free (800) 342-3009 or contact your local social services office. Additional information is posted on the New York state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Web site at www.otda.state.ny.us/otda/heap/default.htm. |
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Energy Saving Tips |
Household Heating
Heating fuel costs will be much higher than last winter, but an energy-efficient home will help reduce fuel usage while making the house more comfortable.
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Water Heating
Because heating bills can put the squeeze on household budgets, why not try to cut other energy costs? The cost of heating water can add up, especially for larger families. Try some of these simple and inexpensive tips to minimize water-heating costs.
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Cold-climate Window Tips |
Windows can help retain heat in your home but can also account for a quarter of a heating bill. Many homes have single-pane windows - not the best for our cold climate. Windows are an important part of keeping your energy costs down, so take some time to evaluate your home’s windows for efficiency.
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Energy-efficient Appliances |
Household appliances such as refrigerators, clothes washers and dryers, air conditioners and dishwashers are responsible for about 20 percent of home energy consumption. Today’s appliances are much more energy-efficient. ENERGY STAR appliances are manufactured to exceed minimum federal standards and can greatly reduce energy consumption. When shopping for new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label. Also, know how to read the EnergyGuide label to compare different appliance brands and models. |
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