Almost daily, you hear news reports about the increasing numbers of homes in foreclosure. What you don't hear reported is how increasing energy costs are so often the cause of this devastating problem.

Are you losing your home because you cant afford to pay your energy bills and your mortgage? If you arent facing foreclosure can you afford temperature settings that keep you feeling comfortable inside your home?

During the recent U.S. housing boom, builders completed homes quickly. Interest rates were low and investors eager to cash in on high returns on investments. Unless you were knowledgeable about energy-efficient home features and made sure they were included during construction, chances are your new home wastes a lot of energy. Its also likely you dont feel comfortable in your home due to uneven room temperatures, drafts, cold floors, etc.

There was a time when home air conditioning was a luxury. Now it seems more like a necessity. Average temperatures in North America have risen over the last 20 years, remaining high for longer periods and forcing people to turn on air conditioners powered by electricity to survive excessive exposure to heat.

Energy Tags: hybrid cars, alternative energy