Energize Your Sacramento Home

. A credit of 30% of the cost, up to $1500, until December 31, 2010

Reports show that consumer spending has been up slightly this year, a hopeful indication of a slowly recovering economy.  But many Sacramento homeowners continue to be cautious, trying to lower costs and keep to a moderate budget.  One of the best investments a Sacramento homeowner can make is to install energy efficient systems that will help reduce utility bills.  However, the upfront costs of replacing a water heater or installing new windows can be considerable.  If you want or need to replace appliances or systems, consider making the upgrades soon to take advantage of the current tax incentives that can offset the costs.

The American Recovery and Investment Act, known as the Stimulus, has extended tax credits for making various energy related investments.  The goal is to encourage Sacramento homeowners to conserve energy by purchasing energy-efficient products or renewable energy systems.  The items that warrant tax credits fall under several categories based on the item and the property type.  Here is an overview of what is included in the tax credit.

A credit of 30% of the cost, up to $1500, until December 31, 2010 on items installed in an existing home (no new construction) that is a primary residence:

• Windows and Doors
• Insulation
• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems
• Roofs (asphalt and metal)
• Non-solar Water Heaters (natural gas, propane, oil)
• Biomass Stoves

For windows, doors, insulation, and other similar projects that secure the home exterior, the credit is limited to the cost of materials.  If you buy a new HVAC system that meets the energy-efficient guidelines, you can also claim the cost of installation.

A credit of 30% of the cost (no limit) until December 31, 2016 on items installed in an existing or newly constructed home for both primary and secondary residences:

• Solar Energy Systems
• Residential Wind Energy Systems (Turbines)
• Geothermal Heat Pumps

Both labor and materials qualify for the credit.

A credit of 30% of the cost, up to $500 per .5kW of power capacity, until December 31, 2016 on items installed in an existing or newly constructed home that is a primary residence:

• Fuel Cells

The bill also includes new and modified credits for qualified plug-in electric drive vehicles and plug-in electric drive conversion kits.  To find a list of hybrids that are eligible, go to http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax_hybrid.shtml.

There are specific requirements that each item must meet in order to qualify for the credit. Because current standards are higher than they were for earlier tax credits, not all products that carry the EnergyStar label are eligible for the new credits.  Thoroughly research which appliances and products meet the criteria to ensure that you will reap the greatest financial benefit.  For more detailed information check out the IRS website, http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=206875,00.html.

Wee Wednesday

The first five years are critical in a child’s life. Encourage your toddler’s development through multi-sensory activities inspired by art. Wee Wednesday is specifically designed for children ages 3-5 and the special adult in their lives. Reservations are required.

Wednesday, Dec 17 10:30a
at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento, CA
education@crockerartmuseum.org
Phone: 916.808.1182
Website Details: click here