While conventional remodeling jobs such as updated kitchens, new hardwood floors and beautiful backyards are still very popular, investing in energy-efficient housing is a burgeoning market. As energy conservation awareness rises, so does the need to keep pace with this trend. In today’s market, more and more people are beginning scrutinize the energy efficiency of a home.
After all, energy-efficiency upgrades not only make a home cheaper to live in, they also make the home more comfortable. If you are hesitating to spend the money to get energy-efficiency upgrades, there is no better time to act than the present. Until the end of 2013, the government is giving out energy tax credits to homeowners who upgrade their HVAC systems to meet minimum efficiency standards.
When homeowners do decide to upgrade, they usually opt for an upgrade that will save them money on the operating costs of a home in the long run. Here is a list of some energy-efficiency upgrades that will save you money and possibly increase your home’s value when you get ready to sell it:
Get a High-Efficiency Furnace, Heat Pump or A/C
A high-efficiency heating or cooling system will probably pay for itself during its life span. Part of the reason is because these ultra-efficient units tend to need fewer repairs. They also provide enhanced comfort, added convenience, and tend to leave a smaller impact on the environment. Foremost, though, they’re able to convert more of the electricity or fuel that runs them into cooling or heating for your home.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Although this may seem like a small change, it will have a big impact on your energy bill by letting you program energy-saving setbacks for when you’re away or asleep for more than eight hours at a time.
Add Energy-Efficient Windows
A lot of energy is lost through windows. Single-pane windows with a metal frame are the worst. Change them out with Energy Star-rated windows that will keep your house well insulated all year long.
Be sure to keep the documents concerning your energy upgrades and maintenance, so you can give them to your real-estate agent once you’re ready to put your house on the market.
For more expert advice about energy-efficiency upgrades and other issues related to home comfort, please contact us at Paschal Heat, Air & Geothermal. We have been serving northwest Arkansas for more than 45 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Springdale, Arkansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about energy-efficiency upgrades and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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