The end of 2010 is fast approaching, and Sungate Energy Solutions wants to remind you that there are some energy tax credits that are set to expire on December 31, 2010.
Improvements to your home that make it more energy efficient, like the purchase of Energy Star rated appliances, high quality insulation and new windows qualify for tax credits through the end of this year. You’ll receive a tax credit of 30% of the cost of these items, up to $1500.
Taking advantage of these tax credits is a great way to save money not only on your tax bill at the end of the year, but on your energy bills for the long haul.
New insulation can give you one of the biggest bangs for your buck. Experts from the Lawrence Berkeley National Library estimate that about 50% of homes are improperly insulated. They also estimate that an investment of $850 in insulation for your home will save you roughly $125 a year in energy bills, paying for itself in about seven years. There are few energy efficient improvements that will pay for themselves in savings that quickly.
When you choose insulation, look for the right R-Value for your climate. The R-value measures the insulation’s resistance to heat flow. The colder your climate, the higher the R-value you’re looking for.
New windows are also great money savers, and they make your home look great too. You’ll also notice a huge difference in how quiet your home is when you have new windows. Switching from single pane to double pane windows can cut your heating and cooling bills by as much as 30%. When you’re ready to purchase, check for three numbers on your windows:
Air leakage
Solar heat gain coefficient (this is the amount of solar energy that passes through the glass )
U-factor (this is how much heat moves through the window )
The lower the number, the better on all three of these indicators.
Sungate Energy is ready and waiting to help you increase the energy efficiency in your home with these and other improvements. Don’t let those tax credits run out without taking full advantage!