Go Green and Save Green
With the economy at its all time low, homeowners are constantly looking for new ways to save some “green.” Currently the government is offering federal tax breaks to those who look for ways to improve energy efficiency within their homes.
Tax credits are available for home improvements and must be placed in service from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2010. Improvements must be for the taxpayers’ current residence and can accumulate up to $1,500 for most additions.
There are several tips homeowners can use to take advantage of this tax break and help the environment. Home improvements which can be implemented and are recognized by the federal tax credit break are the following:
Insulation: Adding new insulation can help reduce energy costs, and keep your home at a moderate temperature. For insulation to qualify, its primary purpose must be to insulate, and must be expected to last for 5 years or have a 2 year warranty.
Windows and Doors: New windows and doors which meet requirements not only help homeowners save on cash, but they look great. To qualify for the tax credit, windows, doors, and skylights placed in service after February 17, 2009 must have a U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) less than or equal to 0.30. You can find the U-factor and SHGC on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. Beautify your home with new ENERGY STAR windows and skylights, and beautify the environment as well. Other products available in this category are storm windows and doors, and exterior doors which meet qualifications.
Roofing: New roofing is always important for homeowners to look into. If the roof on your home is in need of replacement, you may want to look into metal and asphalt roofing. ENERGY STAR qualified metal and reflective asphalt shingles qualify for tax breaks. A reflective roof is not for everyone. They will benefit homeowners most in southern climates where air conditioning is frequently used. In addition, reflective shingles are lighter colors than conventional black or dark gray roof shingles. The color and granules of new shingles must meet regulations to qualify for a refund.
HVAC: Household ventilation can greatly affect energy costs, especially in summer and winter months. Choosing to switch systems could be key to reducing costs on your next bill. Systems which are recognized by the 2009/2010 tax break are: Central A/C, Air Source Heat Pumps, Natural Gas or Propane Furnace, Oil Furnace, Gas, Propane, or Oil Hot Water Boiler, and Advanced Main Air Circulating Fan. Please note that not all ENERGY STAR systems are recognized for the tax break, so be careful when choosing for your home.
Water Heaters: You have a lot to consider when selecting a new water heater for your home. You should choose a water heating system that will not only provide enough hot water but also that will do so energy-efficiently, saving you money. This includes considering the different types of water heaters available and determining the right size and fuel source for your home. Types of water heaters available for tax break qualifications are: Gas, Oil, and Propane Water Heaters. Information about qualifications can be found on the ENERGY STAR website.
Biomass Stoves: More homeowners are considering biomass heating, a renewable energy source that burns clean and has little impact on the environment. Purchasing a Biomass stove is now even more convenient because of tax breaks available for the product. To be considered for a break the stove must burn biomass fuel5 to heat a home or heat water. It must also include a thermal efficiency rating of at least 75% as measured using a lower heating value.
Geo-Thermal Heat Pump:A Geo-Thermal Heat Pump System is a central heating and/or air conditioning system that actively pumps heat to or from the shallow ground. It uses the earth as either a source of heat in the winter, or as a coolant in the summer. Utilizing our earth’s natural resources in the home allows for lower energy costs, and not tax credit. All ENERGY STAR Geo-thermal heating pumps qualify for the tax credit. Advice on which heat pumps are recommended can be found on the ENERGY STAR website.
Solar Energy Systems: Solar Energy Systems power your home by using the sun’s clean, abundant, and renewable energy. Homeowners are realizing not only can a switch lead to saving money, but will keep our environment running smoothly. Requirements for the systems that are at least half of the energy generated by the “qualifying property” must come from the sun. ENERGY STAR qualified solar water heaters can cut your water heating bills in half and reduce your carbon footprint. Sunshine is free, so save “green” and use it to heat your water.
Utilizing these new “green” technologies in your home can greatly reduce your energy bill. Homeowners are discovering the many benefits which come from these products. When deciding to implement changes in your home, consider the benefit of the new 2009/2010 tax credit. More tips for energy conservation can be found at the ENERGY STAR website, or check out more guidelines at the Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency website. Take the opportunity, and help preserve our natural resources. Remember, if you “Go Green”, you can be sure to “Save Green”.
New West Realty has the perfect home for you to start your “green” lifestyle fresh! Schedule an appointment with us today and we can show you the most ideal home to satisfy your living needs.

























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