Best for Energy Efficiency: Sustainable Home Products

Cut your utility bills—and conserve fossil fuels—by replacing your home’s biggest energy hogs with efficient, effective new products.

January/February 2010
By Misty McNally 
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On average, solar water heating systems reduce water heating bills by 50 to 80 percent, according to the Department of Energy.
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Improving the efficiency of big-ticket items makes a major dent in your bills and your home’s carbon output. Until December 31, 2010, energy-efficiency upgrades may qualify for one or more federal tax credits worth hundreds—even thousands—of dollars. The tax credit has restrictions, so read the fine print. Many products require professional installation and customization, so pricing varies. Get a detailed written estimate along with a certificate verifying the product’s federal tax credit qualifications. These items can make the biggest difference in your home’s efficiency.

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Get into hot water

Water heating makes up a third of the typical home’s energy bill. A tankless water heater will use about 30 percent less energy than a tank-style. Or choose a solar hot water system for long-term payoffs. Either way, it’s an investment—but the tax credit makes your initial cash outlay much smaller.

Tankless hot water systems

Bosch
(800) 503-5028

Navien
(800) 519-8794

Noritz
(866) 766-7489

Rinnai
(866) 746-6241

Solar hot water systems

EnerWorks
(519) 268-6500

FAFCO
(800) 994-7652

Novan Solar
(303) 279-8108

Real Goods DIY kits
(800) 919-2400

SunMaxx Solar
(877) 786-6299

Open windows of opportunity

Replace leaky, drafty windows and doors with ones designed to minimize solar heat gain and maximize insulation.

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