If you’ve been looking for ways to make your home greener and more energy-efficient and cut utility costs, it doesn’t seem like an easy task, especially if you have an older home. Why not simplify the process and buy ENERGY STAR® -certified products whenever you can.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy: “Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2009 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 30 million cars — all while saving nearly $17 billion on their utility bills.”
Imagine how much energy and cash we can all save in 2012 and beyond if we are all more conscious when we are shopping.

Here are five reasons to consider ENERGY STAR-certified products for our homes:

  • They say the average American household can reduce its energy use and save over one-third (about $700 per year) on energy bills by using ENERGY STAR products and best practices.
  • This one is great, you may be able receive up to $1,500 in tax credit by investing in energy-efficient improvements to your home with ENERGY STAR products. Here’s a link to find out the details specific to you because these rebates vary by products and where you live.
  • ENERGY STAR products meet very strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy.
  • Products that earn the ENERGY STAR rating must have the features and performance that we consumers want and need and still offer better energy efficiency.
  • Using these products in your home reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
  • Check out this great ENERGY STAR savings video,. It explains the impact of buying ENERGY STAR very well.

There is such a variety of ENERGY STAR-certified products available for your home such as air conditioners, doors, windows, kitchen appliances, outdoor light fixtures and many more. In fact, you can find thousands of ENERGY STAR® Rated products throughout homedepot.com.

Making my home more green and saving some, too, makes me very happy and makes me feel a little bit better about turning on the air conditioner in this heat.