The US Department of Energy is currently providing funding to promote a consumer rebate program for qualified ENERGY STAR appliances. These rates have increased since the start of the program in April (see the Liberty Homes blog entry dated 4/21/10).

In the state of Pennsylvania, the NEW savings range from $250 - $1,000 on ENERGY STAR gas storage or tankless water heaters, oil or gas furnaces, and oil or gas boilers purchased after August 2, 2010. Those purchased between April 21, 2010 and August 1, 2010 will receive the prior savings of $100 - $500.

There are specific requirements for eligible products so before making a purchase, please confirm funding and requirements at www.paheatingrebates.com. As of August 24, 2010, 22% of the estimated rebate funds remain.

Many people think that carpet isn’t a reasonable option for bathrooms. However, as long as your carpet is water, mildew and stain-resistant, it’s more than acceptable. Ceramic floor tile is another option. They differ from wall tiles in that they’re designed with more of a texture to prevent slippage. This type of flooring is durable and hygienic, but make sure that you pay close attention to the porosity rating; it’s critical in a bathroom to have something moisture-proof. Even hardwood floors can be viable in the bathroom if they’re finished to be water resistant; a few good coats of clear gloss sealant will keep it watertight.

When building your custom home or when remodeling your current bathroom, keep these ideas in mind. The Liberty Team would be more than willing to discuss any bathroom ideas or needs. Talk to a Liberty consultant today!

My husband and I are contemplating moving to the Poconos and are curious about the schools. We have a son in high school and a daughter at the elementary level. How do Pocono schools compare?

- JC

Seeing as how your son is in high school and probably thinking about college soon, take comfort in knowing that there are a several higher education institutions in the Pocono Mountains. There’s Northampton Community College, Monroe Career and Technical Institute, and East Stroudsburg University; all of which have diverse programs and courses.

For elementary schools, there’s plenty in the East Stroudsburg, Pleasant Valley, Pocono Mountain, and Stroudsburg school districts in addition to private schools. For more information and to learn about Pocono school events, visit PoconoRecord.com and peruse the “Our Schools” section.

Talk to Liberty Homes about more planning ideas for your new home.

Searching for family friendly events in the Poconos this 4^th of July? Look no further.

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is holding its annual Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks benefiting the Shawnee Volunteer Fire Company on July 3^rd from 7pm to 10pm. The rain date is July 4^th. Entertainment includes an outdoor DJ, Uncle Sam Stilt Walker, Mark Clark’s “All American Magic Show,” and various food & craft vendors. A delicious Hickory Licks barbecue is planned. For more information, call (570) 421-7231.

There’s also Fourth of July Fireworks provided by Mount Airy Resort and Casino on July 4^th. The fireworks will be set to music. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and arrive early to secure space. The fireworks display is free and open to the public; start time is 9:30pm. For more information, call (877) 682-4791.

The Annual American Freedom Festival will be on again this year in Dansbury Park of East Stroudsburg. Local non-profit groups, artists, businesses, and other institutions will have community displays. Rides for children will be present in addition to a wide selection of food vendors and live music throughout the day. The festival is July 4^th from 2pm to 9pm. Fireworks begin at 9:15pm. Lawn chairs recommended. For more information, call (570) 421-8300.

- Outlets in most houses can safely provide only 1,500 to 2,000 watts of power. A microwave draws up to 1,100 watts. If you have a microwave plugged into an outlet, it should be on its own.

- Clear your hallways by picking up toys that pets or children leave lying around. This will prevent trips in the night.

- Keep a fire extinguisher within reach of the oven in the kitchen and an additional extinguisher on all other floors.

- Swap real candles for flameless ones. The flameless candles have a flickering glow without the worry of house fires.

- Put a no slip mat on the tub floor and have something sturdy to grab for when you get in and out.

- Maintain three points of contact on a ladder at all times: both feet and one hand. Never wear sandals or flip flops when climbing a ladder. That’s an accident waiting to happen.

- Put a CO detector in the basement in addition to every floor of your home. Odorless CO leaks from fuel-burning appliances can cause serious problems.

Always clean the lint trap after every use of the dryer and keep loads small.

Many see the direct benefit of renovating a kitchen or bathroom but often overlook the basement. When a basement is finished, it adds usable space and can even increase a home’s dollar value by being counted into its official square footage. Whether it be a playroom, a family room, a bedroom, an office, or just a finished laundry and storage area, that added space can make a difference to your everyday life. Furthermore, having a finished basement eliminates the problem of a damp and moldy area. If you’ve had a water problem in the past, make sure the trouble area has been repaired and then finish the basement to prevent further mold, mildew, and water issues.

For more information on remodeling ideas, contact Liberty Homes.

The energy efficiency of windows is measured by a “U-value.” Because windows are not insulators by design, they cannot be measured in R-values. However, windows obviously have insulating properties, so there needs to be a measurement that allows comparison of styles and window packages.

There is a relationship between R-values and U-values. Whereas the higher the R-value, the greater its insulating ability, the lower a U-value, the better that product’s insulating efficiency. To find a U-value, divide the number ‘1′ by the R-value. For example, an R-value of “4” is equal to a U-value of .25.

When planning an addition, building a new home, or replacing windows, be sure to consider placement as to southern exposure and room size as well as the energy efficiency of the windows. This will ensure your satisfaction and comfort when the job is done.

Why move to the Poconos? One of the attributes of the area is the abundance of fun for the family. Any free Saturday, take a look at one of these kid-friendly locations.

1. Bushkill Falls – Bushkill Falls features eight waterfalls and will make your kids appreciate nature. Stop by the fudge shop or any of the nature and wildlife exhibits. Visit www.visitbushkillfalls.com for more information.
2. Carrie’s Candy Kitchen and Pretzel Factory – Tons of candy and snacks available to satisfy your sweet and savory tooth. The two locations, one for the candy and one for the pretzels, are located near one another on 390.
3. Claws and Paws Wild Animal Park – Unleash your inner animal when visiting this zoo in the woods. With over 120 species, this is a sure crowd pleaser especially with its petting zoo. For the opening schedule, see www.clawsnpaws.com.

Looking for a new furnace, water heater or boiler? Now may be the time to purchase one. The US Department of Energy is currently providing funding to promote a consumer rebate program for qualified ENERGY STAR appliances. Under this program, consumers receive rebates to purchase energy conscious appliances in hopes of replacing less efficient products.