Three Home Investments That Significantly Reduce Energy Costs
When it comes to energy consumption, most people are surprised at how much of their money literally goes "out the window." Many of us have gotten accustomed to our electric bill. We grumble, but we make the payment anyway month after month, unaware that there are some steps we could take to reduce that bill.
However, if you were to stop and add up the cost of the money wasted each month that could have been saved, you'd probably be shocked. With the savings over the years, you could easily take a nice vacation or purchase a new set of furniture. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the biggest money saving investments you can make to reduce energy consumption in your home.
Replacement Windows
There's a reason why the saying for wasting money is "money out the window." It requires a great deal of energy for an air conditioner or heater to regulate the temperature inside of a home. When windows don't keep temperatures inside, all of that work and the money it costs to produce it literally flies right out the window.
Most windows, even many new windows that are produced today, just don't do an adequate job of insulating a home. When choosing replacement windows, it's essential to look for those that have the Energy Star seal of approval. Currently, Renewal by Andersen offers the only replacement windows that are both Green Seal and Energy Star Certified.
Solar Panels
One way to reduce energy consumption from the grid is to create it yourself! With solar panels and energy efficient replacement windows to keep temperatures regulated inside, you can potentially turn the meter backward.
Solar panels can have a significant cost up front so thinking long term is important for calculating savings. Even if you don't plan on staying in the house forever, adding solar panels can certainly increase sale value of the home because of the reduced energy costs.
Replace Siding
Between 50% and 70% of the average home's energy costs are generated from heating and cooling, which is why investments in insulator products like siding make such a significant improvement in energy efficiency. The siding is major source of heating and cooling loss and high quality siding can drastically reduce this problem. New siding doesn't only improve energy efficiency, it also improves curb appeal. Attractive thermal siding, especially in an older neighborhood makes a world of difference in a home's look.
More than just monthly savings
Investments in improving energy efficiency won't only save money while you live in your house. According to a variety of sources, these types of home improvement projects recoup a high percentage of their cost when the home is sold.
Window Replacements: 85.3% cost recouped
Source: Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report
Solar Panels: 157% cost recouped
Source: CA-based solar power analyst Andrew Black
Replacement Siding: 84.7% - 88% cost recouped
Source: Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report
Conserving energy isn't just a matter of saving money. Judging by current legislation, taking measures to reduce energy consumption will soon be mandatory. In California, the leading state in energy trends, the Governor has issued a mandate to reduce energy consumption by 20% by the year 2015. As energy costs increase and "green" becomes more mainstream, the value of these home investments will only improve in terms of both monthly savings and resale value.
