Home Energy Auditors of Wisconsin
Tips and Resources to save on energy costs.
At Home Energy Auditors we believe that education is key to saving on energy costs. Below are some free energy saving tips and some quality resources to help you start saving today. Don't forget to have a professional energy audit done by Home Energy Auditors , call today 262-671-4465.
Residential Energy Efficient Property Tax Credits
This credit, which is in effect through December 31, 2010, allows homeowners to take an additional tax credit for energy efficient repairs and remodeling. The amount of this credit equals 30% of the amount spent on the qualifying repairs and remodeling, with a maximum available credit amount of $1,500. The repairs covered under this credit include installation of energy efficient insulation, which meet energy efficiency specifications.
Sealing and insulating the “envelope” or “shell” of a home—its outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors, and floors—is often the most cost effective way to improve energy efficiency and comfort. ENERGY STAR estimates that a skilled contractor can save homeowners up to 20% on their heating and cooling costs (or up to 10% on their total annual energy bill) by sealing and insulating. For more information about the 2009 Tax credits for homeowners can be viewed on the Energy Star Website at: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits
- Purchase an energy-efficient furnace. Select an energy-efficient furnace model by looking for an AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) rating of 90 percent or greater.
- Control air flow. If you are building a home, replacing heating equipment or remodeling, talk to your heating contractor about the options available to ensure proper air flow. Controlling air flow into and out of your home ensures energy efficiency, comfort and low energy costs.
- Purchase ENERGY STAR windows. When installing new windows, select, at a minimum, double-paned (double-glazed) thermal windows. With existing single-paned windows, make sure you use storm windows during the winter months.
Heating Tips
- Purchase an energy-efficient model. Select an energy-efficient central air conditioner by looking at the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit.
- Close the fresh-air vent. Make sure the fresh-air vent is closed when the room air conditioner is operating so you aren't cooling outside air. Open the vent when the outside air is cooler to let in fresh air.
- Ventilate your attic. Reduce heat build-up in your attic by installing proper ventilation. This helps keep your house cooler during the summer. A qualified heating contractor can help you do this.
