Conservation represents an investment and operational decision to use less energy in our daily lifestyles. While not advocating that you "freeze in the dark," we all need to be mindful of how our behavior and purchase decisions influence our energy use. Our home purchase and utilization are the most significant ways we can each make our mark on our nation's energy use. Consider your options carefully and be especially mindful of a first cost bias -- we seldom consider adding the investment in home efficiency options. Remember that added insulation and upgrading to higher efficiency heating and cooling systems may increase your home mortgage in order to cover these investments. The savings from appropriate enhancements will more than offset any increases in monthly mortgage payments and will add to your home's resale value.