Author: Janet B Cook
There is a high interest in lowering utility expenses and having an eco-friendly home. Between technological advancements and more efficient products, one homeowner discovered after remodeling fhat their utility bills were lowered over $400 a month! Along with monthly savings as an incentive, there is a $1500 tax credit (and more is available) which can offset the cost of qualifying home improvements.
It used to be that one had to wait until there was a good frost on a roof to see if their home was losing heat. Who takes the time to feel for unwanted temperature changes around windows, doors, walls, ducts or outlets? Thankfully, there is a more effective way to find where you are having a problem. One homeowner found after a professional assessment that insulation in a wall was completely missing! Work with a remodeler trained in green building techniques who offers an energy audit. In fact, the heat of the summer is an excellent time to find where you are losing money every day because of the extreme temperature differences from the inside to the outside makes it easy to measure.
The energy consumed by home appliances has dropped sharply since 2000. New refrigerators, dishwashers, and clothes washers combined account for a 43% decrease in energy consumption. Replacing a nine year old washer can save nearly 5,000 gallons of water a year! You can save an average of 4000- 15,000 gallons of water a year if you use dual flush toilets.
Did you know that an average energy star rated refrigerator will consume less energy than a 60 watt light bulb? But don’t reuse the old one as a second refrigerator, it will negate your savings and defeat the objective! A remodeler trained in kitchen and bath design will be able to help you plan for a refrigerator large enough for your needs, and will be a dealer for reputable brands. You can sell, donate, or recycle your old appliances.
Windows are a primary source of heat gain in the summer, and heat loss in the winter. If you have single pane windows, replacing them with dual and triple pane windows can have a dramatic effect. Not only can it make a significant difference with better insulation, it can help lessen fading of your home decor from direct sunlight. If you are doing an addition or guest house, ask your remodeler if they have any windows in inventory you can use at a discount.
Using an experienced remodeler who is trained in green remodeling strategies can result in saving thousands of dollars annually. Beyond your enjoyment, a well designed home with energy star rated products is attractive to buyers when it is time to sell.
Happy Remodeling!
About the Author:
Janet B. Cook, Certified Aging in Place Specialist, is President of the design-build firm Cook Remodeling & Custom Construction celebrating their 30th year, winners of Ranking AZ Top Ten Best Businesses in Remodeling. She partners with Jeff Cook, a Certified Graduate Remodeler
