Go Green and Save Money

It's that time of year again. The inevitable winter chill has arrived. It's left you cold in your house, waiting for your water to heat up, and paying energy bills that you didn't know could get so high. Don't you wish there was a solution to these issues that didn't mean spending the rest of your money? Wait, there is? And it helps the environment too? This sounds too good to be true, but guess what...it isn't! By understanding what incentives are available to you, saving a ton of money (and our planet at the same time) is a very realistic option.

Recently, the New York Times ran an article about how big businesses are reaping big returns from renewable energy products.  The idea behind this is that present, huge "start up" incentives mixed with guaranteed returns in the future make for a win/win situation for any investor. That same incentive money is available for small businesses and homeowners. Few realize this, let alone take advantage of it. Let us break it down for you how it really pays to go green.

Keep Your Water Warm Without Paying Extra

Every winter, it costs more and takes longer for your water to heat. The amount of energy it takes to keep that shower just the way you like it can make your bills sky rocket. Did you know that almost every state in America offers incentives for you to purchase a solar water heater? You can save up to 80% on purchasing one and let the sun take care of the rest.  That's right, you never have to worry about paying to heat your water again!

Switch Your Lights and Save

Retrofit your old bulbs for new LED or CFL lights and start saving every day. These can also qualify for rebates, especially if it's for your business.

Energy Star Appliances

If you switch over to Energy Star appliances, you're using less energy.  That means lower energy bills! Regardless of where you live, if you do a little research, you will find that your local utility offers some sort of rebate or financial assistance with the purchasing and installing of new Energy Star appliances.

Seal The Deal With Proper Insulation

Faulty insulation can cause your home to leak up to half of your heating bill. How annoying is that? Don't let your money seep out any longer. Most states and local utilities provide rebates and financing options to seal up your attics, replace your windows, and even plant shade trees to help with the summer heat once it comes around. Even if you're a low-income resident, there are options for you. Most areas have large and comprehensive funding available so even if you're low on cash, you can save in the long run by weatherizing your home for free (or close to it).

Geothermal Heating System

Lower your heating bill by installing a geothermal heating system and take advantage of the massive rebates that come with it.  In addition to the initial rebates and incentives, most geothermal heating systems qualify for additional tax credits, deductions, or exemptions that make it even cheaper in the long run.

Energy Generation Projects = $$$

If you're feeling tech-savvy, there are many incentives available to install and operate renewable energy generation projects. Not only are you saving money when using these, but you can also earn money through the electricity you generate that's fed back into the electric grid. This is called a "feed-back" rate and it's just another way to save money in addition to the typical tax exemptions, tax credits, and start up rebates that come with building a renewable energy project.

Stay In The Loop

There are all types of incentives available for all types of subjects. The best way to see what incentives you qualify for is to stay on top of it.  Keep researching, keep saving. The most notable way is to use an incentive or energy rebate database. One of the best databases is EnergyGridIQ (EIQ), which can be accessed through the website: www.energygridiq.com or through their free iPhone/iPad App called WattRebate. You can find a comprehensive list of what funding is available in your area through this site. You can also post your projects and allow contractors to come to you. This all makes EIQ a must go-to for all energy related decisions.  So get out there and start saving.

For more ideas on how to go green contact Bradco Kitchens and Baths at:

Bradco Kitchens & Baths
6011 West Pico Blvd.,
Los Angeles, CA 90035

Phone: 323.936.3457
Fax: 323.939.9354
Toll Free: 866 4 Bradco ( 272326 )