If you are remodeling your home, you may want to consider purchasing energy-efficient products to curb your strain on the earth’s resources – and get the added benefit of lower gas and electric bills. You may be surprised by how many Energy Star rated products are available for homes and office buildings.

Windows, Doors, and Skylights

If you are replacing the windows and doors in your house, speak with your contractor to learn about the insulated glass products currently on the market. Energy Star qualifying products reduce gas and electric bills by 7 to 24 percent, and you will be eligible for up to a $1,500 federal tax credit.

Appliances

Are you planning on renovating your kitchen or buying new appliances for your kitchen or laundry room? Energy Star appliances are designed to cut energy and water usage by 10 to 50 percent, reducing your carbon footprint, and saving you the extra cash you can always use. To save the most money on your energy bill, purchase energy-efficient washers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and air conditioning units.

Water Heaters

Did you know that the typical American household spends $400 to $600 per year to heat water for showers, dishwashing, and clothes washing? Depending on the exact product that you choose, buying an Energy Star qualified water heater can cut your water heating costs in half!

Lighting

One of the simplest and cheapest ways to reduce your gas and electric bill is to buy compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs use 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, making them last about 10 times as long. As for the cost-savings? CFLs will pay for themselves after about six months of use, and will save you a total of about $30 during its lifespan.

If you are searching for ways to be more eco-friendly and save money on energy bills, consider using all types of Energy Star rated products in your home.