Energy efficient upgrades help homeowners save money on utilities and have a positive impact on the environment. And starting in 2022, select eco-friendly home upgrades may qualify for tax credits.
From smart thermostats to insulating jackets for your hot water heater, these upgrades are a great way to save energy. They can also add value to your home and increase comfort.
1. Upgrade Your Appliances
Energy efficient appliances are not only good for the environment, but they also help save you money on electricity costs. Additionally, they can increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell.
The newest appliances offer technological advances to reduce energy consumption, which can add up to significant savings. In addition, some of these energy-saving improvements qualify for a tax credit, making them an even better investment. These upgrades don’t have to be a big project.
2. Install Energy-Efficient Lighting
Energy efficient lighting reduces electricity demand, lowers operating costs and offers a lower carbon footprint. It also provides better light quality and a more comfortable environment.
Plus, you can receive tax credits when you install energy-efficient lighting in your home. It’s a great way to save money on your energy bills, and it can help increase your property value at the same time.
3. Seal Your Home
Over time, small gaps and cracks around windows and doors can let warm air escape during the winter and cool air seep in during the summer, causing your HVAC system to work overtime. By caulking gaps and insulating them, you can turn your home into a fortress against energy waste and save on energy costs.
Plus, sealing your home prevents drafts and helps regulate indoor temperature. It also reduces dust, pollutants, and allergens, resulting in a healthier living space.
4. Install Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows help reduce a home’s energy consumption and can also lower utility bills. Many regions offer tax credits, rebates or other monetary incentives for homeowners who install energy-efficient windows.
Drapes, window films, shades and awnings can help improve a home’s energy efficiency when replacing windows isn’t feasible. These products help prevent conditioned air from escaping the house and harness the sun’s heat to reduce reliance on heating and cooling systems. They also protect against harmful UV rays that can damage furniture and flooring.
5. Install Energy-Efficient Doors
Energy-efficient doors reduce air leakage and keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer, reducing your home’s electricity usage. Look for an r-value of at least 3.5 and a frame that suits your climate zone.
By investing in energy-efficient improvements, you can increase your home’s value and lower your utility bills at the same time. Schedule a home energy assessment with your local Better Buildings Neighborhood Program partner to learn more about recommended upgrades that fit within your budget.
6. Install Energy-Efficient Insulation
Adding insulation and air sealing is one of the primary expert-recommended ways to reduce home energy costs. Besides significantly lowering utility bills, these upgrades also improve home comfort and increase the value of your property.
In addition, many qualified insulation products (including spray foam in a can designed to air seal) qualify for a Federal tax credit of up to $1,200. This credit applies to existing primary residences only. The credit expires in 2032. Learn more.
7. Install Energy-Efficient Doors
Installing energy-efficient doors saves you from utility bills because they create a tight seal that keeps warm air inside during the winter and cool air outside in the summer. This reduces your energy costs and your carbon footprint.
Look for fiberglass energy-efficient doors like those from Waudena that also have a wood grain finish for aesthetic appeal. A professional home energy score can help you pinpoint the best areas to install new energy-efficient doors and upgrade your existing ones for the highest ROI.
8. Install Energy-Efficient Insulation
Insulation is the single best home improvement to save energy, reduce heating and cooling costs and improve your overall comfort. Insulation is available in a variety of forms such as fiberglass, cellulose and spray foam.
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades is an excellent way to improve your home’s value and help fight climate change. Lower energy consumption translates into lower carbon emissions and a smaller environmental footprint. It’s also tax-deductible for many homeowners. See the IRS’ tax credit information for more details.