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How Remodeling Contractors Can Help Protect the Environment and Save You Money

Published: 08/04/2010 by Patsy Hamilton

Remodeling contractors can help protect the environment in many ways. Of course, they have to provide what their clients ask for, but they can encourage them to make more environmentally-conscious choices.

If you are thinking about a remodel, here are a few things an environmentally-conscious contractor might suggest.

Replace Old Windows, Doors and Skylights

Older windows, doors and skylights are often points where heat and air conditioning are lost. The newest energy-efficient designs could reduce your heating and cooling bills by as much as 15%. They qualify for tax credits in the US and Canada, as well as the rebate programs being offered in some provinces.

Federal, state and local governments in Canada and the US are offering home improvement incentives for two reasons. One is to boost the economy. The other is to help fight global warming. So practically anything that you do to improve the energy efficiency of your home, generate electricity or reduce the pollution emitted from your home will earn some kind of rebate, tax credit or grant.

Replace Your Furnace with a Heat Pump

Heat pumps are generally more energy efficient than furnaces. Remodeling contractors sometimes are able to remove and install a new heat pump. But, you might need to contact an HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) specialist.

Insulate

Increasing the amount or the quality of insulation in your attic (particularly if you live in an older home) will reduce your heating and cooling bills. Your house will be more comfortable and quieter, too.

Install Photovoltaic Solar Panels

Photovoltaic solar panels are the latest devices for harnessing the power of the sun. There are residences and shopping centers in Germany that actually produce more energy than they use, because of all them.

The panels are thin and lightweight. They can be installed on a roof or on the ground and connected to the wiring of your home. Electrical remodeling contractors would be the people to contact for more information about going solar.

Install a Wind Turbine

Wind turbines are not useful in all areas. But, in some places, they generate a great deal of electricity. They are small, quiet and not too expensive. The cost of the pole is generally more than the turbine itself.

Install Energy Efficient Appliances

Your old dishwasher, refrigerator, washer, dryer and other electrical appliances are energy drains. New government standards require new appliances to use less electricity and water.

Remodeling contractors can easily remove your old appliances and install new ones for you. Next to heating and cooling, the biggest use of electricity in modern homes occurs in the kitchen. Refrigerators are the biggest drain.

Install a Low Flush Toilet

Newer toilets use less water for flushing. The seals are designed to prevent leaking and require less maintenance. They too are eligible for grants, rebates or other incentives.

Plumbers, electricians, HVAC specialists and other remodeling contractors will have more ideas. Most are familiar with the grant, rebate and tax credit programs. So they can offer more good advice. Contact a contractor today.

Patsy Hamilton is a home improvement journalist at HomeImprovement411.ca. For more great useful home improvement articles please visit: http://www.homeimprovement411.ca

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