Government Rebates in Home Improvement

Are you prepping for a big remodel or planning on building your own home? When you wrote up your list of expenses, did you need a new pair of pants? It's okay. It is scary, but if you do a little homework and research, you'll find out that there is money available for people doing things on their own! So change your pants, jump online, and see what kind of money is out there for you!

The government refunds available to homeowners are numerous. Most focus on appliances and systems that make the house more energy efficient. There are programs for those who are retrofitting an existing home. There are also special programs for those building new homes.

For both new homes and existing residences there is a credit available to those who install geothermal heating, solar energy, or small wind turbine systems. All three systems represent major savings in the cost of operating a home. They also represent more environmentally friendly ways of producing energy.

Regardless of which type of system is installed, the program offers a thirty percent government rebate. There is no cap on the amount spent on the new system. The program applies to primary and secondary homes. It does not apply to rental properties. There are other programs for rentals.

New biofuel stoves, a new roof, windows, doors, insulation, water heaters, heating, and air conditioning systems all quality for a ten percent rebate. The limit on this program is $500. It only applies to existing homes. Rentals and new construction are excluded.

There are state government rebates for homeowners with low income. The benefits vary from one state to another and not every state has such an offer. Homeowners who qualify with low income in Ohio, Virginia, Tennessee, California, Oregon, and some Northeastern states can get substantial help with replacement of older heating systems, including boilers, gas furnaces, and heat pumps. Check out dsireusa.org for details on what your state offers.

While the programs affect homeowners, they can also be good for contractors. Becoming knowledgeable about the types of energy star appliances that improve energy efficiency is a good way for a contractor to gain the confidence of new and existing customers. Customers who realized they will be saving money on heating or cooling a home are more likely to be satisfied. There is printed material available to contractors that will help explain the benefits to homeowners.

Some government rebates are currently being operated through utility companies. The appliances that rely on gas or electric will qualify for the savings. Utility companies that offer credits on appliances may have a limit on the types of appliances that quality. For instance, electric companies may offer the program for those who purchase new air conditioners or central air systems. There are many programs available for those who want to purchase new appliances or systems. It pays to look for local, state, and federal government refunds before deciding on systems or products to purchase.