Home improvement projects are costly. Prices have soared over the last couple of years from materials to labor as we’ve suffered through worldwide shortages, supply chain issues and inflation. Check out this handy rebate finder before scaling back a project or shutting it down completely. In just a few minutes, you could wind up saving hundreds of dollars, if not thousands.
Easy links to savings
Created by the United States federal government, the Energy Star Rebate Finder is a quick, easy and efficient way to discover programs that have the potential to save you money on home improvement projects. To start your search, plug your ZIP Code into the rebate finder and click the “Find Rebates” button.
Savings sorted by location
Based on your location, you’ll see a list of money-saving rebates and special offers available to you. Local, state and federal programs are listed. Each listing provides a brief description of how long the savings program is available, the amount of savings, and links to each specific program.
Programs are offered by utility companies, local governments or state governments. Others are sponsored by the federal government.
Three methods of savings
Typically, these programs offer savings through three methods: instant savings on the price of the item you’re purchasing, cash back in the form of a rebate or a credit on your income taxes.
The savings can be substantial on big-ticket items, such as heating and cooling systems. For example, the federal government is offering tax credits of 30 percent of the price of major home improvements such as heating and cooling systems, window replacement, water heaters and other big-ticket items. Credits range from $300 all the way up to $2,000.
If your home improvement budget is a bit smaller, you can still save some cash. The rebate finder also lists more modest savings programs, such as discounted LED light bulbs, smart thermostats and light fixtures.
Energy Star approved
It’s important to note, all of the programs and products listed are Energy Star certified, meaning the products have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for their energy efficiency.
That’s great news for you because you’ll not only save money on the cost of your home improvement project but you’ll also save money going forward on your utility bills. On top of that, you’ll be contributing to efforts to help protect the environment.
Stagger improvements to maximize savings
As always, be a smart consumer and carefully read the requirements to receive the rebates and, in particular, the tax credits. There are annual limits on the tax credits and you must be replacing old systems on your principal residence. New construction and rental properties are not eligible. Since the current federal tax credit program runs through 2032, you can maximize savings by staggering your home improvements over several years.
Related – What Every Consumer Should Know About Energy Star
