Take Advantage of Federal Tax Credits for Making Your Home More Energy Efficient

Homeowners that make their homes more energy-efficient through adding insulation, new appliances and storm windows may qualify for federal tax credits that will save them money.

The federal government offers an array of tax credits for homeowners and builders that improve the energy-efficiency of their homes, and energystar.gov offers a complete summary.

The stimulus plan just signed into law by President Obama includes $300 million to provide consumers with rebates for buying energy efficient, Energy Star products to replace old appliances. This tax credit will help to lower energy bills, improve the environment, and save and create jobs.

If you are buying a new home, or wish to make the home that you own more energy-efficient, here are a few products that you may wish to consider. Installing these products may make you eligible for a tax credit.

In recent years, new insulation products have come onto the market. Some of these products are becoming widely used, replacing older, less efficient materials, and others are growing in popularity.

One such product is Spider insulation. Offering the benefits of blow-in insulation and the value of fiberglass, Spider seals wall cavities and attic spaces in order to stop air leakage and infiltration. It increases the overall energy-efficiency of a house. The product is free of formaldehyde, and high in thermal efficiency.

Another product that has become widely available is energy-efficient faucets. On average, Americans use over 70 gallons of water a day per person. Much of that usage happens in the bathroom. For example, water flows from a standard showerhead at 2.5 gallons per minute, so a ten minute shower nets 25 gallons.

However, many companies now manufacture energy-efficient faucets and showerheads that lower water usage while ensuring comfort. Moen, a company that is based in Northeast Ohio, offers showerheads that reduce water usage to 1.75 gallons per minute, thus saving the consumer money on their water bills, and also lessening the impact on the environment.

Making your home more energy efficient will reduce the costs of homeownership, making it more affordable, and help to protect the environment – something that will make our economy and our country healthier in the long run.