Save on Energy Improvements

Creating a more energy efficient home is not just beneficial to individual homeowners looking to reduce utility bills, it is also a big step in curbing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the use of fossil fuels across the country. Because of this, energy improvements are being taken very seriously by federal, state, and even some local governments. Energy efficiency improvements are now often eligible for rebates and tax credits; while the magnitude of such credits can change from project to project and place to place, no matter where you are it is worth your time to take a look at which energy improvements are right for your property. Which Energy Improvements Are Eligible?
While there are many improvements that will increase the function of your home, not every improvement will be considered an "energy efficiency improvement." Again, the eligibility of a specific project can vary from place to place, but upgrading the following home components is often considered an energy improvement:

Electric heat pump water heater

Solar energy components are also typically considered an energy efficiency improvement, and the inclusion of these in a remodel or new construction will do wonders both for your home's overall energy consumption and your monthly utility bills.

Energy Star and Energy Efficiency Improvements
The federal government's Energy Star program makes upgrading appliances and other home components easier. By purchasing replacements that are labeled with the Energy Star seal, you are not only increasing he odds that your replacement will be eligible for some sort of incentive, you are assuring yourself that the item you purchase meets high standards of energy efficiency. Many different name appliance brands offer models that are Energy Star certified, which means that you will have plenty of companies you already trust to choose from.

Are Energy Improvements More Efficient than Your Current Set Up?
It is important to realize that in many cases, keeping the home components you have until they no longer function is the most eco-friendly option. Just like building a new house requires more energy than purchasing an existing one, that old fridge you've had for 20 years might not run as efficiently as a brand new model, but the fewer fridges you purchase over your lifetime, the fewer need to be produced, and the lower the energy expenditure in the production and transportation of these appliances becomes. That being said, one of the best things you can do for the environment is to keep all of your appliances and home components well-maintained so they will last as long as possible and perform well over their long lives. Annual furnace inspections, A/C tune-ups, and calling for service as soon as you know it's needed for any malfunctioning components are each words to live by if you want to produce as little waste as possible over your lifetime.

Unfortunately, no matter how well you maintain them, all appliances and home components will need to be replaced at some point. When that time comes, remember that Energy Star products and energy improvements are your best options to keep your home running well and wasting as little as possible.

Jon Nunan is a freelance writer who draws on his experience in construction, ranging from landscaping to log home building, for his articles on home improvement.

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