Page 26 - Harnett Life Winter 2022
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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