1. Use cold water instead of hot for washing clothes.

2. In winter, lower temperatures in the home to around 68 degrees. In summer, keep air conditioning set at 78 degrees or above.

3. Install storm windows and doors where possible. Caulk cracks and weatherstrip windows and doors. Insulate walls, ceilings, and floors in your home.

4. Check and maintain your heating and cooling system for the most efficient performance.

5. Reduce the use of lighting in the home. Use low-power light bulbs and lower wattage where strong light is not necessary. Don’t leave lights on in unoccupied rooms.

6. Don’t use the dishwasher for less than a full load of dishes.

7. Turn off the heat in unoccupied rooms and close those doors, unless you have a heat pump.

8. Don’t let hot water run while washing, shaving, or doing dishes. Fill basin or sink with only as much water as needed.

9. Don’t block heat outlets, such as radiators or registers, with furniture, carpets, or draperies.

The following items are eligible:

* Insulation systems that reduce heat loss/gain
* Exterior windows (including skylights)
* Exterior doors
* Metal roofs (meeting applicable Energy Star requirements).

In addition, federal law provides a credit for costs relating to residential energy property expenses. To qualify as residential energy property, the property must meet certification requirements prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury and must be installed in the taxpayer’s main home in the United States.

The following items are eligible:

* $50 for each advanced main air circulating fan
* $150 for each qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water heater
* $300 for each item of qualified energy efficient property.

The maximum credit for all taxable years is $500 – no more than $200 of the credit can be attributable to expenses for windows.

Energy Credits for Homeowners