Lower Your Heating Costs This Winter by Weatherizing Your Home

So there’s no better time to prepare for the season by making energy-efficient upgrades.

Typical energy improvements include air sealing, insulation, ventilation systems or the installation of green appliances approved by Energy Star. Many upgrades are encouraged by state or federal programs that provide tax credits or rebates.

"These programs raise consumer awareness of the types of upgrades that are needed to make homes more energy-efficient," says Neil Parsons, a vice president at Mark of Excellence Remodeling in West Long Branch, N.J. “Weatherization” is a term that describes various improvements made to buildings and homes to optimize energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, on average, weatherization reduces heating bills by 32% and overall energy bills by about $350 per year at current prices.

Even though each state has different programs and incentives, all provide benefits to homeowners. "Homeowners notice their return on investment in their utility bills instantly after making energy upgrades,” says Parsons. “The other benefits are the rebates, the increase in home value from making the improvements, increased performance and durability and helping out the planet by conserving energy for future generations.”

To learn more about your state weatherization programs, visit www.dsireusa.org.