The Top High-ROI Energy-Efficient Updates for Homeowners

The typical homeowner is not only interested in reducing their energy bills, but they also want to reduce their carbon footprint. Keep these eco-friendly renovations and installation ideas in mind when building a custom home or upgrading one currently occupied. These tips will save occupants money and are likely to get home sellers a solid return on their investment. Since sustainable design is helping drive the luxury home market, implementing energy-efficient practices can attract buyers down the line. Keep reading to learn about the best high-ROI energy-efficient upgrades for your home.

Solar Panel Installations Are In Demand

Save now and earn big in the future by installing a solar power system for the home. Solar panels can run into the tens of thousands of dollars, but innovations such as solar adhesive tapes make access to sun-powered free energy more affordable than ever before. However, the investment can provide a lifetime of free energy and even excess power to be sold back to energy providers. Be sure to look into residential solar tax incentives from the IRS and state organizations.

Energy-Efficient Windows Save Money

The U.S. Department of Energy states that the average homeowner loses around 30 percent of heating and cooling in their home through drafty windows and poorly sealed doors. The organization estimates the savings of switching from single-paned windows to dual-paned models to range between $126 to $465 and offer a 90 percent ROI. The return average will likely rise if owners opt for smart glass, which automatically adjusts to sunlight and temperature.

Smart Appliances Automate Efficiency

Investing in energy-efficient appliances and home automation can reduce energy expenses between 10 and 50 percent, which is something buyers will be likely to pay a bit more to have. Including automation options via a connected app, one can have a functional smart home, which lets occupants control numerous devices even when they're away. Some typical installations to consider include:

• Laundry Washers & Dryers
• Kitchen Appliances
• Tankless Hot Water Heaters
• Heating and Cooling Systems
• Plumbing and Irrigation Systems
• Home Alarm Systems
• Smart Locks, Doors & Lighting

Current owners can recoup their investment costs through energy savings, but they are likely to see a significant ROI—especially as these technologies continue to increase efficiency and popularity.

Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems Cut Costs

According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs can account for as much as 43 percent of the energy used in homes. However, installing energy-efficient heating, cooling, and ventilation system can reduce those expenses significantly. The inclusion of a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely with an app lets owners have the freedom to turn the HVAC off and on as desired and schedule operation times to coincide with hours when occupants are present.

Insulated Garage Door Installations Keep Savings Inside

Insulated garage doors can improve security and energy efficiency in homes. These installations add a thermal layer inside the casing, which helps maintain temperatures during extreme weather far better than a non-insulated door. Should one have a relatively modern door, insulating barriers can be added fairly inexpensively.

Those looking for a new energy-efficient garage door with insulation will find that they average around $1800, not including installation, but the top models with windows and smart features can cost as much as $2600 or more. Remodeling Magazine reports that replacing a garage door with an insulated one gives sellers around a 93.8% ROI.

Energy-Efficiency Pays for Itself

Understanding home values can be challenging since so much of the market is out of owners' control. However, implementing high-ROI projects is the best way to take autonomy over your property's worth. To maximize the effort of creating a more energy-efficient home, reaching out to contractors who understand how to do the job right is a wise move. They can help owners determine which projects will get the most energy savings and bring in a solid ROI should selling the home be on the agenda. Check local listings, read reviews, and call references for contractors under serious consideration before signing on the dotted line.