Reader Question: What can I do to make my home more energy efficient?

To make your home energy efficient, look to see where energy is being wasted.

• If your house feels drafty, replace your old roof, windows or doors.
• If your house is hot in summer and cold in winter, upgrade or replace your insulation.
• If your energy bills are unusually high, you could replace your heating/cooling systems with more efficient versions which use less energy.

Making your home more efficient can reduce your monthly utility bills which could save you money in the long run.

There is a program available for a homeowner’s principle residence (not a second home or rental property) that gives tax credits for energy efficient improvements. You typically get a 30% credit from your costs (labor and material) for qualifying improvements.

The tax credit is available for 2009 and 2010 up to the sum of $1,500.  If you use it all up in 2009, then you can’t use it again in 2010. Check out www.EnergyStar.gov for complete details.