How often do you find yourself releasing an exasperating sigh of trepidation as you tear open your energy bills? Does your heart drop and your gut wrench? Do you ultimately concede it as an inevitability to the energy deities?

If so, you certainly aren't alone. Utility bills have never been higher. However, what many don't realize is that there are upgrades that can be made to improve the energy efficiency of your home, and the government is willing to help. But you better act now because time is almost up!

Hot and Cold

If your heating and cooling bill is astronomical, it may be because your house is not energy efficient. If so, give serious thought into outfitting your home with the most modern building materials and appliances.

The federal government is offering lucrative tax credits for those who upgrade to certain Energy Star-rated products. This includes windows and doors, insulation, roofs, HVACs, heating and ventilation, water heaters and biomass stoves. Taxpayers are eligible to receive 30 percent off all selected Energy Star products with a cap per household of $1,500.

The advantage of tax credits is that they are an actual dollar-for-dollar reduction from your taxes, as opposed to a tax reduction that discounts a certain percentage of what you pay. And although new houses under construction do not apply, additions to existing houses do. So if you've been dreaming about outfitting that heat-sinking sun room with new windows or a sliding glass door, act now; this offer is ending this year!

For more information about eligibility, how to apply for federal tax credits and what Energy Star products apply, check out www.energystar.gov.

Appliances

In addition to federal tax credits, the state of New Jersey also has a wide range of programs offering financial incentives to home owners thanks to funds received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The state offers rebates of $25 to $100 dollars on qualified Energy Star clothes washers, dishwashers and refrigerators. 

The state offers a $50 rebate and free pick-up if you dispose of appliances with them. 

Lights

Think about lighting, too. For the average family, lighting accounts for 20 percent of the average home's lighting bill. Compact florescent bulbs are a step in the right direction.

Also, check out the state's online store where they offer discounts on Energy Star light bulbs and fixtures, including free shipping on orders over 25 percent. There are several other programs you may be qualified to take advantage of but many of these programs are ending with the turn of the New Year. Check out NJ Clean Energy for some more useful information.

Value

It may seem like both a financial and physical burden to install new windows and insulation, switch out the old fridge for a new one and replace all the light bulbs in house with CFLs in the house. However, thanks to the financial incentives offered by the federal and state governments you can't deny that there hasn't been a better time to act.

Of course, it would be wise to remember that the reduction in your energy bill each month for years should also be a determining factor. The upfront cost for some to upgrade may be prohibitive, even with the rebates, but for many the real savings could be immediate and concurrent.

Where to Start

If you're still not exactly sure where to start or what your house could even qualify for, you may want to have a professional do an assessment. BrightHome Energy Solutions, with an office in Ridgewood, do detailed home assessments and also offer services on all of the installations, as well.

Being cognizant about our energy consumption is a positive step towards sensible environmental stewardship and heavier wallets.