Improving energy efficiency is a concern for most homeowners. A greener home allows you to reduce energy costs, save money, and help to protect the environment. Although many homeowners wish to make their home more energy-efficient, they neglect to do so because they are worried about the expense. However, creating a green home doesn’t have to be expensive. With some simple upgrades and purchases that can be made at your local hardware store, you can drastically improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Continue reading below as Marchant Building Center, a hardware store in Mountain Home, AR, lists a few ways you can improve the energy efficiency of your home:

1. Replace Damaged Windows & Doors

Old or damaged windows or doors could be impacting your home’s energy efficiency. Windows and doors that are old or dilapidated offer poor insulation, which prevents your heating or cooling system from being fully effective. Repairing and replacing these fixtures can improve their function and allow your HVAC to run more efficiently.

2. Add Insulation

If you have new windows and doors in your home but are still having difficulty keeping your house warm during the winter, you may need to insulate your home. Insulating drafty rooms in your household—including the attic and basement—can help to retain warm air. As a result, you won’t have to set your thermostat as high to keep your home warm and comfortable.

3. Upgrade Your Light Bulbs

During your next trip to the hardware store, pick up compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) to replace any incandescent bulbs you may still have at home. CFLs can last up to 10 years and use just a fraction of the energy of a conventional bulb. By investing in CFLs, you’ll save money on light bulbs and your electric bill each month.

4. Look Into Tax Incentives for Upgrades

Many cities and states offer tax incentives for homeowners interested in making energy-efficient upgrades. With these incentives, you can cover part or all of the cost of improving your home. These incentives may cover new lights, window and door repairs, and upgrades to your HVAC system.

5. Get Smart About Your Landscaping

If your home gets very hot during the summer, you can introduce some natural shade to help make your home more comfortable. Plant tall trees and shrubs around the perimeter of your home to create a natural barrier from the sun. With this barrier, your home will stay cool, allowing you to cut back on AC usage.

If you are interested in making more upgrades to your home, contact Marchant Building Center at (870) 425-3168 to speak to one of their friendly and knowledgeable staff members. To learn more about the services offered by this hardware store or for a list of building materials they carry, visit them online.