One of the best ways to save money as a homeowner is by reducing your utility bills. You’d be surprised at the effect you can have on your monthly statements by cutting back on certain areas of usage.
One of the most significant ways to reduce your utility bill spending is by installing new windows. Older, more inefficient windows can allow large amounts of air to leak through, causing your home to be drafty. In the end, this can raise your utility bill by a fairly large number.
New Windows and Lower Bills
If you’ve been making an attempt to lower your utility bills, purchasing new windows can be a great contribution to this cause. It’s been estimated that new windows will save a homeowner up to $27 per year on their utility costs.
The best course of action is to install Energy Certified windows. These will help you manifest the best possible results when it comes to cutting down on your utility bill.
It’s understandable that installing new windows seems like a large project just to save a few dollars every year. However, considering the fact that you can get credits toward this, it makes a lot more sense.
Tax Credits
Americans can apply for a tax credit that may assist with the cost of replacing windows. You don’t even need to replace all the windows in your home to qualify.
The only thing you need to make sure of is the fact that you’re using Energy Certified replacement windows. Otherwise, you won’t be eligible for the tax credits provided by the government.
In the Meantime
If you feel like replacing your windows is too large of a chunk to take out of your budget, even with credits, there are some alternative options. Use the following tips to insulate your house better while you’re waiting to have new windows installed.
- Insulate the areas around your windows. Use foam or plastic to make up for the gaps that exist around windows and trim.
- Cover your windows during the wintertime with plastic. This stops heat from escaping and can lower your utility bill.
- Use energy-efficient blinds to help keep heat inside your home. These use the reflection of the sun to trap heat inside your home.
If you’ve been leaning toward getting replacement windows, you should inquire about the government tax credit. Not only will you end up saving money on your utility bill, but also on the entire cost of the job as a whole!
