Green Basics
Learn how to minimize our environmental impact on the planet starting at home. Significant discounts are available on all of the below improvements, often being fully covered under one of several programs listed under the Savings and Tax Credits page.
Landscaping:
Traditional lawns require frequent mowing, fertilizing, and weed control. In contrast, xeric and native landscapes typically need little to no chemical inputs and require less regular upkeep. Over time, this can translate to 50–90% lower maintenance costs, and more free time on the weekends! Minimizing or removing turf also cuts down on emissions from lawn mowers and other gas-powered tools, helping to keep our air cleaner.
Solar Power:
A typical rooftop solar array can cover a large portion of your home’s energy needs, often cutting electricity costs by 50–100%. Over the life of the panels, these savings can really add up. While solar systems have an upfront cost, many homeowners see a return on investment in about 7–10 years. After that, it’s often nearly free power for decades.
Inefficient Shower Heads and Fixtures:
You don’t have to skip showers to save water. Low-flow fixtures can easily cut water usage in half without sacrificing water pressure. Low flow fixtures are available for shower heads, sinks, and even toilets. A easy, low cost way to cut water usage!
Outdated Insulation:
If your attic or walls aren’t well insulated, you’re essentially throwing money out the window (or roof). Upgrading insulation can reduce heating and cooling needs by over 45%, making your home comfortable year-round and slashing carbon emissions and energy costs in the process.
Over-reliance on Incandescent Bulbs:
Traditional incandescent bulbs turn about 90% of their energy into heat, which means you’re paying for more than just light. Switching to LEDs not only brightens your room more efficiently but can also reduce lighting energy use by about 75%. Plus, LEDs last much longer, so you’ll be changing bulbs less often.
The Magic Of Heat Pumps:
These fascinating systems don’t just heat; they cool as well, making them a versatile all-in-one solution for keeping your home comfortable through icy winters and hot summers alike. Because they transfer heat rather than directly generating it, heat pumps use less energy, often upwards of 80% energy savings on heating and cooling.
Drafty Windows and Doors:
Ever feel that chilly breeze sneaking under your door? Poorly sealed windows and doors can let out 20–30% of your heating or cooling, driving up energy costs and creating uncomfortable temperature swings at home. Sealing up those gaps keeps everyone more comfortable and cuts down on wasted energy.
Leaky Faucets and Running Toilets:
According to the EPA, a single faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons a year—enough to fill a small backyard pool! Running toilets can be even more costly. Fixing leaks early protects your wallet and conserves fresh water, a resource we all rely on.
Find discounts available to you!
Each section listed above is covered under one of several programs available. These programs can pay the full price of the project in some cases. Learn more about these programs below! Contact a listed professional to learn how to make the most of the discounts available to you!
Savings & Tax Credits