Page 26 - Harnett Life Winter 2022
P. 26

Upgrade Your Home, Downgrade Energy Usage



                            7 efficient home improvement projects
















































      (Family Features)  The best home upgrades not only make    While a complete replacement of doors and windows can be
      spaces more livable and energy-efficient but are also cost-ef-  pricey, adding exterior caulk and weather stripping to fill in
      fective. Making energy-efficient improvements is a savvy way   gaps where air can escape around these openings can make
      to save money on utility bills, curb energy usage and add to the   a noticeable difference for a fraction of the cost and make it
      house’s value.                                             cheaper to heat and cool your home.


      Consider a variety of home improvement projects, both big and   Install Skylights
      small, that can reduce the financial burden of maintaining your   Skylights are a cost-effective option for transforming any room
      home throughout the year and improve energy efficiency.    in the home with natural light while also delivering energy-
                                                                 saving benefits. For example, Sun Tunnel Skylights from Ve-
      Add Insulation                                             lux can be installed in as little as 90 minutes and funnel natural
      A cost-effective way to save on heating and cooling bills is   light from the roof through the attic and into the room below
      adding a layer of insulation in the attic where heat loss is typi-  with an aesthetic that resembles recessed lighting. Customiz-
      cally greatest due to hot air rising. While many newer homes   able with six diffuser film styles to complement interior design,
      are adequately insulated, those that are several decades old (or   the skylights can make a home more energy-efficient by reduc-
      older) may benefit from an upgrade in not only the attic but   ing reliance on artificial lighting. An optional daylight control-
      other  common  problem  areas  where  air  can  escape  such  as   ler makes it easy for homeowners to adjust natural light enter-
      basements, crawl spaces, fireplaces and ductwork.          ing a room, and a solar nightlight provides a moon-like guiding
                                                                 light at night. Installed with the solar nightlight, the skylights
      Seal Doors and Windows                                     qualify for a 26% federal tax credit on solar property.
      Windows  and  doors  are  common  culprits  for  energy  loss.

      Page 26                                                                                  Harnett Life ~ Winter 2022
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