Ten Excellent Home/Office Improvements to Maximize Energy Efficiency-


The average consumer may wish to implement smart, energy-efficient design modifications in their home or office; but in the midst of all the hype, it can be difficult to decide where to begin. An energy-efficient audit would be a great place to start, as it is imperative to discern where changes can be utilized to offer the most impact. Karen Thull of the Energy & Environmental Building Alliance affirms, “That is the very first step that any homeowner should take… [An energy audit] is a great way to kind of measure where there are inefficiencies.” Switching old electronics and light bulbs out for energy-efficient appliances and lighting is another simple, affordable option to slash energy bills. Do your part to reduce and reuse by selling old household devices at a garage sale or on a free website, which will also provide extra cash that will help to purchase those new, more efficient appliances. Fitting insulation into attic spaces is another excellent improvement that the average consumer can afford, since the federal government offers 30 percent cash back on certain insulation products. “In the attic spaces, a lot of times, the insulation over a period of years will reduce down to maybe 3 or 4 inches where you are supposed to have like 10 inches of insulation… A lot of the insulation companies promote going in and blowing an additional 10 inches of insulation in your attic. That really helps,” says Paul Zuch, the president of Capital Improvements. Likewise, sealing up cracks and leaks around doors and windows will offer exceptional energy and cost-saving benefits, as the U.S. Department of Energy affirms that drafts waste 5 to 30 percent of energy in an average home. Plus, certain sealants – such as caulk, weatherstripping and spray foam – are eligible to receive federal tax credits. “It’s something that homeowners can do easily,” says Thull. “And there are a lot of different products out there that are able to do [the job].”

Energy-efficient windows and doors are another viable improvement, with both options eligible to receive federal tax credits. Replacing old windows and doors with ultra-efficient models will keep warmth indoors during harsh winter months and cool inside throughout the sizzling summertime; and, not to mention, will maintain reduced energy bills month-to-month. Installing storm windows is a practical alternative to avoid expenses associated with a complete window replacement. However, cost-effectiveness is the name of the game, so if windows throughout the home are leaky or rotten it may be a better choice financially to replace them since its a high probability that they will need to be removed at one time or another. Additionally, efficient water heaters can be quite helpful in driving down energy costs – and, to boot, certain models qualify for federal tax credits. There are energy-saving devices that, when utilized with water heaters, help to boost effectiveness. “Water heating makes up anywhere from 15 to 25 percent of the annual energy usage in a home… You start saving money on a monthly basis, and that technology will generally pay for itself in anywhere from three to five years,” says Steve Koep, Marathon Water Heaters. Tightly sealing air ducts around the building is another feasible adjustment, especially with homes or offices that operate forced air heating and cooling systems. According to the EPA, generally one-fifth of air circulating indoors will escape through these leaks. Utilizing duct sealant to repair leaks and even insulation to protect ducts around an attic or basement will save energy and cash in the long-term. A programmable smart thermostat will help to conserve approximately 10 percent on heating and cooling bills, and is a practical choice as many efficient models are available in the $30 range. Lastly, an efficient heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will reduce energy bills by around $200 annually; and although this can be an expensive investment, the system is eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit to help lower initial outlay. Finding the right professional installer is extremely crucial, however, considering that poor set-up causes unfavorable drawbacks such as low airflow, improper charge and duct leakage; consequently wasting precious time, money and energy. Similarly, before installing a new HVAC system, bear in mind that sealing and insulating all cracks and windows will ensure ultra-efficient operation. For comprehensive information on tax benefits and eligibility associated with energy-efficient products, visit Energy Star.