Austin Real Estate Blog

The trend is rapidly turning toward more energy efficiency, not only in public and community buildings, but homes as well. The federal government is getting into the act in a big way by providing tips and suggestions to homeowners to increase the efficiency and decrease the cost of heating, cooling and lighting their homes.

ENERGY STAR appliances are a good start. These are refrigerators, ovens, washers and dryers that, by following strict guidelines for efficiency, have earned the ENERGY STAR. And the ENERGY STAR doesn’t apply to just appliances anymore. Qualified contractors can do a top to bottom inspection and offer advice on reducing drafts, upgrading insulation, replacing exterior windows, and upgrading electrical lighting.

Tax credits are available to homeowners who make energy-related improvements to their homes as well. The IRS has more information. Improvements to existing homes such as insulation that reduces heat loss or gain, windows and skylights, exterior doors and roofing that meet ENERGY STAR requirements. The addition of solar panels can also qualify the owner for tax credits.

The US Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy site contains a comprehensive list of ideas for reducing energy waste in the home. Using structural insulated panels in new construction, replacing old light bulbs with the longer lasting bulbs, and sealing leaky duct work are just a few suggestions. Replacing your old thermostat with a programmable thermostat is one simple and inexpensive way of reducing energy use. Installing solar panels is at the high end of the initial cost spectrum, but could realize substantial savings in the long run.

A top to bottom energy audit of the house by a qualified contractor is highly recommended to assist the homeowner in cutting down on wasted energy and reap the benefits in subsequent savings.