By guest columnist Bill Bell Pellet heat, which costs the equivalent of #2 heating oil at $2.00 per gallon, is Maine’s logical answer to volatile oil prices. While wood pellet prices will always fluctuate somewhat, they will be far more stable—and generally much lower—than oil. In fact, one of Maine’s major pellet heating firms now…
DetailsThinking about building or renovating green? Wondering where to start? Maine is home to some of the nation’s leading green building experts. Whether you are looking to hire professional assistance or educate yourself, the following resources offer a road map to guide you on your way. Maine chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council Your…
DetailsHow much time do you spend in your home on an average day? Is it eight hours? 10 hours? More? Would you like your home to be as comfortable and energy efficient as possible? Then it makes sense to assess just how much energy you use—or waste—each day in powering, heating, and cooling your home.…
DetailsOften, the most cost-effective improvements you can make to the energy-efficiency of your home are also the least expensive. The above chart is designed to help you prioritize steps and develop an action plan for energy-efficiency. A home energy audit can pinpoint where your home is losing energy, but even without doing an audit, you…
DetailsA room can feel much chillier when you’ve got a cold draft coming in from a poorly sealed window or door. Stopping up those drafts can help save energy and lower your heating bill through the winter. Here is a simple way to make your own fun, colorful draft stoppers. YOU WILL NEED an old…
DetailsWhether you’re a renter or homeowner, you can make eco-friendly changes to your living spaces without breaking the bank or waiting for a landlord to take action. Plus, there are lots of simple, effective ways to conserve energy that don’t involve years of saving up for state-of-the-art solar panel installation. These tips can get you…
DetailsIf you’re concerned about fluctuating energy prices and want to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient, here are some resources to help you finance the improvements. PACE Loans One obstacle to making energy efficiency improvements is determining how to pay for them. Efficiency Maine offers a financing program that enables homeowners to borrow…
DetailsBy guest columnist Alina Blakesley Reflexology is an ancient healing art that strengthens the body’s immune system. The reflexology practitioner uses thumb and finger pressure to stimulate specific reflex points on the feet. Some practitioners include hands, ears and face. The entire body can be mapped on the feet. There are points connected energetically to…
DetailsBy guest columnist Carey Kish There’s nothing like getting outside for a good hike to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air and unwind a little amid the natural beauty of the Maine coast. Thanks to the thoughtful conservation efforts of many public and private agencies and dedicated individuals, there are many protected lands along…
DetailsMost commercial energy drinks combine salt, refined sugar, caffeine, and artificial flavoring and dyes to give you a quick burst of energy—then leave you high and dry when you crash an hour later. If you’d like to hydrate in a healthy way and avoid high-fructose corn syrup and caffeine packaged in plastic, give this recipe…
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