Homeowners focus on energy at expo

LIMA - Even in a bad economy when people hold on to their cash, they'll still spend to maintain their largest investment, their home.

People were investigating that investment Saturday at the West Central Ohio Fall Home and Energy Expo.

Earl and Carmelita Johnson, of Cridersville, were shopping for energy-saving products for a rental home they own.

"We need to make it more energy efficient," Carmelita Johnson said. "It costs so much to heat the house, we've had people move out. We're getting good information today."

The expo is presented by the West Central Builders Association and The Lima News. It is sponsored by Landmark Building Co., Quality Mechanical Services and The Basement Doctor.

This is the first expo on the themes of energy savings and efficient building methods. The event continues from noon to 4 p.m. today, including programs on energy efficiency at 1 p.m., zone heating at 2 p.m., and foundation repair at 3 p.m.

Sandy and Joe Mezinger have been in their Shawnee Township home since 1980. Sandy Mezinger said she's in the market for new siding and gutters, but a space heater sold by DeHaven Home and Garden Showplace caught her eye.

"The grandkids come over and play in the basement," she said. "In the winter, they're always cold."

Jim Freewalt started his company, Realtek Home Solutions of St. Marys, about a year ago. Freewalt uses infrared technology to find drafts and leaks in homes and uses cameras to inspect sewers.

"Homeowners are very interested in this," Freewalt said. "For an affordable hourly rate, we can show them where the problem areas are."

IF YOU GO

West Central Ohio Fall Home and Energy Expo

Noon to 4 p.m. today

Veterans Memorial Civic Center