Posted by James Desmond on Tue, Aug 10, 2010 @ 11:46 AM
This year the federal government has provided an energy tax credit for any homeowner who purchases energy-efficient products or a renewable energy system for their home, perhaps you may be eligible for a federal tax credit and you don't even know it! The tax credit is good for up to 30% of the cost of your product but only up to $1500 and this tax credit is set to expire December 31. Below you will find an overview of the federal tax credits for a few energy efficient products.
Beware, purchasing ENERGY STAR products doesn't necessarily mean that you are eligible for this 2010 tax credit. ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, but may not be eligible for the tax credit.
WINDOWS/DOORS/SKYLIGHTS: Energy efficient windows, doors, and skylights can dramatically reduce your energy bills.
*Must have a U-Value of <=.30
*Must have a SHGC of <=.30
*Tax Credit doesn't include installation costs
STORM WINDOWS/ STORM DOORS:
*Must have <=.30 for U-Value and SHGC
*Must meet the IECC
BIOMASS STOVES: which burn biomass fuel to heat a home or heat water. Biomass fuel includes agricultural crops and trees, wood and wood waste and residues (including wood pellets), plants (including aquatic plants), grasses, residues, and fibers.
*Must have a thermal efficiency rating of at least 75% as measured using a lower heating value.
*Tax Credit does include installation costs.
ROOFING: qualified roof products reflect more of the sun's rays, which can lower roof surface temperature by up to 100F, decreasing the amount of heat transferred into your home.
*Metal roofs with appropriate pigmented coatings and asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules that also meet ENERGY STAR requirements.
*Tax Credit does not include installation costs.
GAS,OIL,PROPANE WATER HEATERS: Water heating can account for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home.
*Must have an energy factor of >=.82 or a thermal efficiency of at least 90%.
*Tax Credit does include installation costs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CLICK HERE.
Posted by James Desmond on Thu, Jul 01, 2010 @ 01:08 PM
10 Ways to Make Your Home Energy-Efficient
1) Energy-efficient windows incorporating advanced technologies like low-E glass coatings, gas filler between layers, and composite framing materials keep heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer. For information on Suburban's most energy-efficient replacement window, The Heat Mirror, click here.
2) Vinyl siding on exterior walls saves money on installation and maintenance; fiber cement siding is termite and water resistant and warrantied to last 50 years.
3) More durable roof coverings such as steel and fiber cement reduce the frequency of roof replacement. Lighter colors absorb less heat, reducing cooling costs in warm climates.
4) Selecting more efficient, correctly sized heating, cooling and water-heating equipment will also save money on your energy bill.
5) Incorporating passive solar design features like large, south-facing windows helps heat the home in the winter and allows for increased natural daylighting.
6) Covered entries at exterior doors help to prevent water intrusion, reducing maintenance and enhancing durability.
7) The energy-efficiency of refrigerators and freezers has tripled over the last three decades because they have more insulation, advanced compressors, better door seals, and more accurate temperature controls.
8) Foundations should be as well insulated as the living space walls for efficient home energy use and enhanced comfort, particularly if the basement is used as a family room or bedroom.
9) Tree preservation reduces landscaping and future energy costs and helps provide winter wind breaks or summer shade.
10) Recycled plastic lumber and wood composite materials reduce reliance on chemically treated lumber and durable hardwood for decks, porches, trim, and fencing.