For homeowners who have been considering adding home insulation - this summer is the time to do it. 1.) Last Chance for the Energy Tax Credit - This is the final year that homeowners are eligible to receive an energy tax credit for adding home insulation. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides for significant tax credits for energy efficient home improvements made during 2009 and 2010. Consumers who make these home improvements can receive a tax credit of up to 30 percent of the cost, up to $1,500. To qualify, the primary purpose of the insulation must be to insulate. For example, adding aluminum siding to your home does not qualify as insulation. There must be a manufacturer's certification and the insulation must be expected to last five years or carry a two year warranty. Most importantly, the insulation must be placed into service before the end of 2010 to be eligible for the tax credit. 2.) Increase Your Home's Resale Value - Installing insulation can make your home more desirable to potential buyers. In this housing market, sellers are looking for any advantage. According to an Energy Pulse Survey (2006), 86 percent of Americans would choose one home over another because of superior energy efficiency. 3.) Lower Your Energy Bills - According to the US Department of Energy's Office of Building Technology, the most effective method of reducing energy bills is adding home insulation. Without sufficient insulation, heating and air conditioning systems have to work harder because your home is leaking air, which leads to excessive utility bills. When homes are properly insulated, it takes a lot less energy to heat and cool them. 4.) Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions - Proper home insulation reduces your energy consumption, thereby reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. Homeowners can stop wasting energy with attic insulation or whole house insulation and air sealing. According to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), insulated buildings in the United States reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 780 tons each year. 5.) Comfort - Create a cool, quiet and healthy home environment for the summer. Insulation not only keeps your home at the desired temperature, but also provides acoustical insulation. Enjoy your home with family and friends without the interference of barking dogs and lawnmowers. High quality foam insulation can also improve the air quality in your home because there are no fibers or loose matter and it will not support mold growth or bacteria. Keep the cool air inside and the noise and allergens outside to truly enjoy your home this summer.
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For homeowners who have been considering adding home insulation - this summer is the time to do it.
Erin Shaughnessy is a freelance writer of articles about consumer advocacy and political issues. Look for future articles regarding insulation contractors and home insulation types. http://www.UsaInsulation.net/
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