How to Make Your Idaho Home More Energy Efficient

Idaho is a state with big potential for becoming more energy efficient. Homeowners and sellers can make their homes much more attractive to buyers by following a few simple tips to make their home energy efficient. Deciding to make eco-friendly improvements can be one of the best decisions you ever make, not only for yourself but also for our planet.

Here are a few major benefits associated with making energy-efficient upgrades to your home:

1. Reduces your carbon footprint - When you use less energy, you can reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that are emitted from power plants and other sources of electricity.
2. Saves money - Not only will these improvements reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bills, but they also help extend the lifespan and durability of your home systems. This means you save money on repairs and costly replacements.
3. Increases your home value - Energy efficiency improvements can increase the value of your home because they are typically more attractive to potential buyers wanting to save on utility bills and live more comfortably.
4. Potential income tax deductions- Idaho residents may be eligible for an income tax deduction for energy efficiency improvements to their Idaho homes if the home was built or had a building permit issued before 2002. These improvements may include adding new insulation, installing energy-efficient windows and storm windows, weather stripping, caulking, and sealing and insulating ducts. Go to the Idaho State Tax Commission or speak with your accountant for more details about this deduction.

Below are some simple ways you can make your Idaho home more energy efficient.

Install CFL or LED Lightbulbs

Switching to CFL or LED light bulbs is an easy and inexpensive way to start saving on energy costs. LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent lights and last up to 25 times longer.

Insulate Your Home

Making sure your home is well-insulated will help to keep air from escaping and can reduce your energy costs by up to 20%. Check for cracks around windows, doors, and other openings where heat or cold air can escape and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat can help manage your home’s temperature. You can set it to turn down the heat or air conditioning when you leave home and back up again when you get home, so you won’t have to waste energy heating or cooling an empty house.

Install Water Saving Fixtures

Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, shower heads, and faucets can help conserve water. This is not only a great way to reduce your home’s energy costs but also helps in reducing our planet’s water consumption.

Install Dual Pane Windows

Replacing your home’s single-pane windows with dual-pane windows can help reduce heat loss and gain during the hot weather and chilly winters. Not only do they improve the energy efficiency of your home, but they also have the added benefit of reducing noise from the outside.

Replace Major Appliances

Older home appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines, can be huge energy hogs. Look for Energy Star rated models that are more efficient and will help reduce your carbon footprint.

Consider Solar Power

Installing solar panels is a great way to save on energy costs while also reducing your home’s dependence on fossil fuels. Solar power will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to buyers.

Overview

These are just a few of the ways you can make your Idaho home more energy efficient. By taking the time and effort to follow these tips, you can significantly reduce your home’s impact and add value to your home when you go to sell.

When you are ready to sell your home, it is important to find a real estate agent who will market and advertise these energy-efficient upgrades effectively. This can help potential buyers see the significance of choosing your home versus others on the market.

It is also important to keep all receipts and warranties for the energy-efficient upgrades you made, as well as track the savings that you have realized. This information can be valuable to the new owner of your home, who will appreciate having documentation of the green features and the associated cost savings.