These Six Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades Are About to Get a Lot More Affordable

Over the last decade, solar has grown by an average of 33% per year in the United States, generating enough capacity to power 24 million homes, and with the help of new government subsidies, investing in energy-efficient home upgrades is becoming increasingly affordable. The Energy Star program’s six-point home upgrade plan offers solutions to save money and energy at home, and according to The New York Times, it’s all electric.

1. Clean heating and cooling

Electric heat pumps are efficient replacements for oil and gas boilers and furnaces, and they can cool air, too. Some use your existing ducts, others are ductless.

2. Super-efficient water heater

Boilers and furnaces use the most energy, followed by water heaters. Electric heat pumps save money and power.

3. Smart thermostat

A relatively inexpensive addition, these thermostats can automate temperature changes and adjust to your daily routine to achieve greater energy efficiency.

For Energy Star’s full list of efficient home upgrades …

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