Making energy-efficient upgrades to your home not only benefits our planet, but also can put some extra money in your pocket by lowering your energy bill and possibly qualifying you for a tax credit for your energy-efficient home improvements. Read on to discover what you can do to boost the energy efficiency of your home and dramatically lower energy costs.
Window Replacement– As windows age, the framing around the window panes can begin to sag or buckle, causing drafts. Replacing your windows with state-of-the-art energy-efficient windows help to retain heat during the winter and keep your cool air in the house where it belongs during hot summer months. This translates to savings for you, since, as your dad probably said, you’re not paying to heat the outside!
Adding Insulation– One great way to make your home more energy efficient is to adding insulation to key places where warm air tends to escape. Think of insulation as a comfy blanket for your house. If the blanket is too small or too thin, your house is going to be chilly! A home energy audit conducted by your local electric company can help you determine where the extra insulation is needed most.
Change Light Bulbs– This is a simple fix virtually every homeowner can do, and the savings are huge! Just replace all your traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and you’ll be amazed by the difference in your monthly electric bill. CFLs use far less energy than old-school bulbs, last longer, and are available in a wide variety of styles to fit almost every type of fixture.
