Energy Efficient Windows: Are the Financial Rewards Worth the Primary Expense?
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by: AdamCiboch | Total views: 28 | Word Count: 383
There is a big push currently for homeowners to build "green" or to remodel their homes to be more energy efficient. The upfront cost of green building materials and energy efficient windows and appliances can seem overwhelming to many homeowners. The high initial cost of becoming energy efficient causes some to question whether going green is worth the expense. Making your home more energy efficient does hold up under a cost benefit analysis; here are some of the ways it may benefit you.
Energy efficient windows have been proven to lower the monthly energy bills of homeowners. These windows are useful in the summer months as well as in the winter months: reducing energy consumption in all seasons. Energy efficient windows are widely understood to be beneficial to those in cold climates; however, they are most valuable in areas of the country where the weather changes radically.
Depending on which company you choose, your energy efficient windows will likely cost between 125-200 dollars. 15-25 windows is the average number installed in a home. 3,000 dollars is a very rough estimate of what you are likely to spend installing energy efficient windows in your home. The homeowner can save anywhere between 125-465 dollars each year by installing energy efficient windows in her home.
The climate varies greatly across the country, as do the utility rates; this is the reason for the disparity in savings. 12 years may seem like a long time, but at an average of 200-dollar savings per year, that is about how long it will take you to pay for your windows. Don't forget, money isn't the only thing you are saving; you are also reducing your environmental impact!
Installing your energy efficient windows before the end of 2010 will result in a much faster return on your initial investment. If you install these windows by the end of December 2010, you will be eligible for a tax credit from the US government. You must install energy efficient windows in your home this year to be eligible for a 1500-dollar tax credit. Homeowners interested in updating their appliances as well as some other things could be eligible for many tax credits this year. The government tax credit is meant to help home owners recover their investment in green products and home updates far more quickly.
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