Heating homes more efficiently can help cut our dependence on foreign oil
By Rich McFarlane
McFarlane Insulation
We’re an energy-dependent nation. We use more energy than any other nation—and depend on foreign countries to supply much of it.
And if our homes are not energy-efficient, we’re only contributing to the problem. With world events driving crude oil prices through the roof, now is the time to get your home evaluated.
The world’s largest energy consumer
The United States is the world’s largest total energy user, consuming 100 quadrillion (that’s 1 trillion times a thousand) BTUs in 2005, the last year for which such data are available. We rank seventh in energy use per capita, behind Canada and some smaller countries.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the U.S. in 2009 accounted for 27% of the world’s total oil consumption. Just over half the petroleum we consumed was imported.
Home heating accounts for much of our energy consumption, EIA says:
• The U.S. consumed approximately 23 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in 2008. Of that amount, 22% (4.9 trillion cubic feet) was used for home heating.
• In 2009, the U.S. used 210 million barrels (8.8 billion gallons) of oil to heat homes and businesses.
What we can do about it
As a home insulation specialist, I’m committed to helping homeowners consume less energy for home heating—and reduce our dependency on foreign oil sources.
Call McFarlane Insulation today at (201) 560-0224 to request a free energy consultation, or visit our Web site.
