The Energize Missouri Homes Tour Vehicle, an initiative sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy to teach consumers how to be more energy efficient and cut energy costs, launched a statewide tour at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia on Aug. 11.
Energize Missouri is a program funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to educate Missouri residents about the benefits of residential energy efficiency, state personal income tax deductions for home energy audits and the benefits of installing home energy efficiency measures.
A traveling exhibit will visit communities around Missouri. In each town, an energy auditor will give energy-efficiency demonstrations to provide specific tips for cutting energy costs and answer consumer questions about how to make their homes more energy efficient.”
Representatives will also share information about state tax credits such as the $1,000 a year/$2,000 lifetime maximum deduction for the cost of conducting a certified energy audit of your home and implementing the auditor’s recommendations.
The centerpiece of the energy exhibit at the State Fair is the House of Pressure. The House is made of clear plastic and allows consumers to see exactly how a home works “behind the scenes.” The House has an operable forced air duct system, a dryer, bathroom fan, fireplace and water heater. There are smoke generators for the fireplace, water heater and car exhaust.
The House of Pressure shows how a home works behind the walls so consumers learn hands-on ways to save energy and costs.
The House of Pressure simulates a back drafting water heater which can cause serious problems. Experts will share information on proper installation to keep your home safe.
In addition to The House of Pressure, there will be a “Did You Know” video at the exhibit offering additional tips for energy savings, and activities for children, including the interactive “Energy Hog” game that teaches energy efficiency tips in an entertaining way.
The Energize Missouri Home Tour exhibit will be housed in The Womans Building at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. The dates of the fair are from August 11- 21 and the hours of the exhibit are from 9am-5pm daily. The mobile tour starts September 12 and will travel around the State of Missouri for six weeks.
