Those of us who are not participating in an annualized utilities plan are currently basking in one of two periods each year when the cost of staying comfortable in your home is a little less painful. Spanning a couple of months each spring and fall, this in-between-heating-and-air-conditioning time means there is temporary relief from utility bills. Why not take the opportunity to invest in home improvements that will increase your home’s energy efficiency, and decrease future energy use?

Does increasing your home’s energy efficiency mean replacing the windows? Not necessarily, says Jennifer Eschelbach, of Recycle Ann Arbor's Environmental House project.

"When it comes to improving the efficiency of your windows, replacement is helpful but not always the most cost effective solution," says Eschelbach. "There are several simple remedies that can help improve the efficiency and comfort level in your home. It's important to understand that windows were not originally designed to offer great insulating value, but rather to be aesthetically pleasing." One of the simplest ways to improve the efficiency of your windows is to install energy-saving window coverings. Choosing the right window covering can reduce heat loss in the winter, and heat gain in the summer. Interior blinds, either horizontal or vertical, are a good choice because the slats can be used to control light and ventilation in the summer.

Draperies are effective during heating and cooling seasons, though their effectiveness depends on color and fabric. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, closing drapes during cold months can reduce heat loss in a room by up to 10 percent. Shades -- in particular dual shades, which have one highly reflective side and one absorbing side -- are extremely effective, because they can be reversed with the seasons.

Products such as caulk, rope caulk and window insulation kits may also improve efficiency, when used to seal air leaks in and around windows up to one-quarter-inch wide. When sealing air leaks, don't forget to pay attention to door sweeps, weather stripping, and electric outlet sealers.

How many of us actually know the R-value of our home’s insulation? According to Eschelbach, the higher the R-value the better, with attics requiring R-40 to R-50, walls R-19, and basements R-10.

Other easy items on the home energy checklist include maintaining your furnace with annual check-ups, and filter changes when necessary, to ensure it operates at maximum efficiency. Set the water heater's temperature at 120 degrees, and install a blanket to reduce energy loss by 25-40 percent. Insulate the first 8 feet of the hot water supply line with foam pipe insulation.

Here's a fun way for the kids to get involved: to check the seals on your refrigerator, shut a piece of paper in the door and try to slide it out. If it slides, head to the hardware store to find replacement seals.

Finally, when buying an appliance, remember that it has two price tags: what you pay to take it home, and what you pay for the energy and water it uses. Look for the EnergyStarâ„¢ logo when shopping; these appliances save significant money and energy in the long run.

The following Web sites offer loads of information on increasing your home's energy efficiency:

http://www.greenovationtv.com http://www.energystar.gov http://www.energysavers.gov

Jean Brown is the communications manager for Recycle Ann Arbor, and is spending the month of May looking for ways to increase her home's energy efficiency. She can be reached at (734) 662-6288 or jbrown@recycleannarbor.org.