Energy Efficiency

I.R.A. (Inflation Reduction Act) Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Windows In August 2022, the U.S. Government signed the Inflation Reduction Act, a comprehensive piece of legislation that, among other things, expands the Tax Credits for energy-efficient home improvements, and that includes window replacement. That means that besides enjoying energy savings, increased comfort, and property value when you install new ENERGY STAR-rated windows, you can now get a bigger refund when you file your taxes. According to the Okna Windows Website, “energy-efficient choices can save families about a third on their energy [...]

In our previous post, we discussed Storm Windows and the minimal role they play in curbing energy losses for homes with modern double and triple-paned ENERGY STAR-rated windows. We also suggested that if your home already has energy-efficient windows, your money will be better spent elsewhere, and that includes energy-efficient window treatments.  The modern energy-efficient windows are designed to prevent heat transfer to the glass pane, and they have a coating that filters out UV rays to prevent the sunlight from overheating the rooms indoors.  Yet, even energy-efficient windows can [...]

Thinking about window replacement? The typical single-pane, clear window is usually a thermal hole in any building envelope. According to the UMass Amherst | Department of Environmental Conservation, “most are 10 times less energy efficient than the wall area they replace. An average home may lose 30% of its heat or air-conditioning energy through its windows.” That means that without energy-efficient windows, you are paying substantially higher energy bills. Energy-efficient windows are an investment that tends to pay for itself in 2 to 10 years in energy savings alone, but they [...]

The scoop on energy-efficient, cool roofing With the soaring fuel prices, homeowners are beginning to consider the idea of investing in energy-saving home improvements to save on the ever-increasing energy bills. From newer Energy Star-Rated HVAC units and appliances to energy-efficient windows, homeowners are in search of the projects that will bring them the most bang for the buck. And that brings us to today's topic. Energy-efficient roofing. A lot of energy waste can happen through your attic and roof, especially if your HVAC ducts run through the attic. A [...]