Easy upgrades for homeowners to be more energy efficient and save money
Nov 4 2011 2:02PM
Southern California homeowners are eligible for financial incentives, such as rebates and tax credits, after upgrading homes to be more energy-efficient. But in order to see a difference, homeowners will need to make at least four changes.
Results from a national Energy Pulse survey conducted by Shelton Group say that users who averaged four home improvements saw a decrease in their utility bills. Those who made less than four actually saw a 10 to 30 percent increase.
“The top energy-saving driver for the vast majority of Americans continues to be about dollars and cents,” Shelton said. “It’s a green decision to save energy -- but for consumers it’s the green in their wallets that matters most.”
The most common improvements that Americans are making include replacing windows, adding insulation and getting a higher-efficiency heating or cooling system. The LA Times reports that 71 percent of those who made swaps to be more energy-efficient haven’t taken advantage of incentives, rebates or tax credits, 61 percent were not aware they were available.
October is National Energy Awareness month and the Times reports that there are over 155 programs for incentives and rebates in California.
