Energy efficient windows
decrease cooling costs
In a climate with a long cooling season, like that in Texas, energy efficient windows are just as important as they are in colder places. In Texas, there are local and national programs to help you financially with making your windows more energy efficient, thanks to the U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Texas utilities and state agencies. Does this Spark an idea?
Federal Tax Credits for Windows
Since the DOE's Energy Star tax credit program has a national reach, Texas residents can benefit from it. It covers windows. If you install new windows that meet Energy Star qualifications for efficient performance, you can get a tax credit.
The tax credit is in effect for 2009 and 2010 and covers energy efficient windows installed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. You can get a credit for 30% of the cost of the windows, but not the cost of installation or labor, for an expense of up to $1,500. To get the tax credit, you need to file Form 5695 with your 2009 or 2010 federal tax return and include any receipts with your return.
Local Utility Grants for Efficient Windows
Many Texas utilities offer rebates for home improvements that increase energy efficiency. In Austin, for instance, Austin Energy offers a rebate of up to 20% of a $1,575 outlay for energy efficient improvements, including weather stripping and caulking, through their Power Saver program. The DSIRE database's web page for Texas can direct you to the utility in your area and its rebate programs.
Weatherization Assistance for Windows
Like the Energy Star tax credit, this is a federal program administered by the DOE. However, there are income limits to qualify. If you qualify, weatherization assistance can pay for many home improvements that increase energy efficiency, including windows. Weatherization assistance can fund new, energy efficient windows or to help you improve the efficiency of your existing windows. In Texas's warm weather, caulking and weather stripping existing windows can reduce leaking during cooling season, and adding window treatments can decrease heat gain.
In Texas, the agency that runs the Weatherization Assistance Program is the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, which has sub-agencies to serve different counties in Texas. You can check their website to find out about eligibility and which sub-agency to contact.
Tags: efficient windows, energy efficient, energy efficient windows, Energy Star, 2009 2010, cooling season, energy efficiency
