May 1, 2009 4:33 pm US/Eastern
Energy-Efficient Repairs Keep Cooling Costs Down
SACRAMENTO (CBS) ―
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Making some energy-efficient repairs can help keep your cooling costs down this summer.
CBS
Making some energy-efficient repairs can help keep your cooling costs down this summer. And if you choose the right products, Uncle Sam will pay for part of them, CBS station KOVR-TV reported.
Thanks to the Federal Stimulus Plan passed in February, homeowners who make certain energy-efficient upgrades can get 30 percent of their costs back from the government in the form of a tax credit. The limit is $1,500.
"It's a great way to show people how they can be eco-friendly; they can save money and get a tax credit at the same time," Home Depot store manager Ben Lister said.
Some of the repairs are relatively affordable, like replacing an old door or adding insulation.
"A lot of older homes don't have any attic insulation so just putting even an R13 factor in there is going to make a large difference in the amount of energy they're saving," Lister said.
This $5 can of filler foam even qualifies for the tax credit.
Other projects that qualify are pricier like replacing your roof or windows, adding solar panels or installing central air conditioning.
"A lot of them are projects a customer is going to have to do anyway. What we're trying to do is make sure the customer is educated at the same time. And they hey, you can get 30 percent back on your taxes."
And keep in mind, only certain products qualify for the tax credit. So ask a sale person before you buy. Home Depot lists all the qualifying products on its website.
Again, the tax credit is good for 30 percent of your home improvement costs – but most of the time, installation is not included.
So if you need a new roof or windows, you'll easily reach that $1,500 limit. And on top of that, you'll save money on your energy bills.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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