Forward Bank

With Earth Day being celebrated on April 22 for the 51st time, protecting our one and only planet is on our minds. What can increase the value of your home, save you money and save the planet? The answer is a simple one: improving energy efficiency. 

1. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)

A good place to start is to replace older high-energy-using systems (HVAC) with newer, more efficient ones. If your heating and/or cooling appliances are more than 15 years old, consider replacing them. Your monthly heating and cooling bills will be lower in addition to your home reducing its use of the planet's energy reserves.

2. Add Insulation & Upgrade Windows

Adding an extra layer of insulation in your attic is a moderate cost that can easily be recouped in a few years through your energy savings. Upgrading windows and doors will better seal in the heating and cooling and contribute greatly to the overall value of your home.

3. Increase Air Circulation

Circulating the air will help reduce your heating and cooling costs. The addition of ceiling fans will accomplish this and, for pennies a day, save a lot of energy usage.

4. Upgrade Plumbing

Low-flow plumbing fixtures and upgraded water heaters will contribute to stabilizing water sources for everyone and reduce your monthly water bills.

5. Switch to LED Bulbs

One-third of a home's electric consumption comes from lighting alone. Switching to LED bulbs, putting up new energy-efficient light fixtures and installing larger windows for more light will save on monthly bills and add to the value of your home. Energy Star–rated appliances for your kitchen will also contribute to energy conservation.

Whether you're considering improving the energy efficiency of your home for the planet, to save money or to increase your home's value, reach out to our mortgage experts so you can get the best information in determining which innovations make the most sense for your market.