Energy Efficiency Starts at Your Front Door
Posted April 16th, 2009 by PaigeI’m always looking for ways to save.
Whether it’s killing off vampire power with items like the Smart Strip power strip, or trying to use the least amount of paper products in my kitchen that I can get away with, I am a person who likes to save money and the environment. It’s a powerful combo, and one that is catching on with more and more homeowners.
Lots of small household upgrades pack a double punch of money savings and eco savings. Your front door for instance. Did you know that replacing exterior doors can save you money? By upgrading your exterior doors to steel or fiberglass you will gain five times as much insulation as with an older, dated door. Better insulation means you don’t need as much energy to heat and cool your home. These doors generally also include built in weather stripping, another great way to trap in heat and stop drafts.
Last but not least, if you upgrade to an EnergyStar approved exterior door you can apply for a tax credit of 30% of the cost of the project for up to $1,500.
Looking for other ways to save? Here are some other tips:
Green Building with Joel Fraley of The Neil Kelly Company
Energy Efficency: Put Your Refrigerator to the Test
Falling Rain = Falling Utility Bills: Rain Catchment Systems
Tags: energy efficiency, exterior door, tax credit
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April 17th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Another way to save more energy (and $$$) is to install a radiant barrier in your attic. This website has a lot of great information about radiant barriers and how to install: http://www.radiantguard.com
April 20th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Paige,
That is awesome that you try to be as green as you can. I am the same way from paper towel usage to turning off lights in rooms when I’m not in them. There is so much more we can do to improve our homes and our lives!! I even pull out plugs when I’m not using the coffee machine, hair dryer etc. You should check out Sierra Club Green Home…they have more tips on how to improve your home to be more green! Have a green day and great post!