What do energy-efficient homes have? The main things that you implement are Energy Star-rated materials, appliances, and equipment while insulating your home accordingly. An energy-efficient home is are essentially green buildings or homes that improve their energy performance.
Going down this route is a great option to consider because of its benefits that can really help not only you but also the environment as you begin to take the steps in lowering your home’s greenhouse gas emissions. The government and utilities support homeowners in taking that step towards becoming more efficient as 26 states have made the move to implement it.
This is achieved by programs that have been integrated to incite renewable energy measures with homeowners. It is important to educate yourself in everything that going renewable involves when you decide to do home improvements. This is so that you can decide how you want to design your home for durability while understanding what options are available for you.
Energy-Efficient Tax Credit
When you qualify for an energy-efficient tax credit you gain assistance with the costs. Essentially you are gaining access to financing but you can also gain help with your financing through loans, rebates, or an energy-efficient mortgage. If you are eligible for tax credits then you can save up to 30% on the costs of upgrading your home when you take the steps to meet the Energy Star requirements.
As long as you are located in the United States and the type of housing you have qualifies you are in the step to qualifying. It is critical that you get certified professionals who can do a home energy audit so you know exactly where to start and help you gauge how energy efficient your home is after the necessary improvements.
The Pros and Cons
With a basic understanding of energy-efficient tax credit and other financing options, you can grasp that this forms great benefits. Having tax advantages can be a great help in the process of upgrading your home design. However, you also have the opportunity in gaining long-term savings through your lowered utility bills when you consider your electricity and water consumption. Implementing renewable energy also adds value to your home if you plan on putting it on the market or keeping it as a long-term investment. Other than the improved environmental impacts that it brings, it also brings great benefits for your health and your home’s air quality.
The cons to net-zero building and improvements are the costs first and foremost. The costs that are involved when you plan on the improvements can become pretty steep which is what detracts from the appeal for many homeowners. This includes materials, maintenance, or construction to list a few. That is why there is financing to help many get through this particular challenge. Another thing that detracts from the appeal of going more green is the fact that even though your home’s air quality is greatly improved along with the health benefits, the temperature of your home is not as controlled as you want it to be.
What are some improvements you’ve taken with your home to become more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly? Let us know in the comments below!
