It’s that time of the year again. It’s Tax Day! Americans all over the country are getting their taxes in order. For a lot of people, Tax Day means one thing: refund check! The average tax refund fluctuates, but in recent years it’s come in around $2,700.That’s a nice chunk of change to receive from the IRS. Not everyone is that fortunate, but any amount you may get back can be invested in a way that will improve your home and life in general! It’s definitely tempting not to splurge on that designer bag you’ve been eyeing. However, think about all the ways you could improve your home that would eventually save you money down the line! According to this article, 8 in every 10 people who file taxes will get a return! So if you’re someone who might be receiving a tax refund this year, this post will give you some smart suggestions on how to go about investing that money back into your home.
1. Add Solar Panels
Adding solar panels to your house can help you cut down on energy costs by helping you produce a little bit of your own electricity. Solar energy is not only sustainable, it is renewable and this means that we will never run out of it. It is about as natural a source of power as it is possible to generate electricity. The creation of solar energy requires little maintenance. Make sure to take advantage of the tax incentives for energy-efficient home improvements that are available through the federal government. Recent increases in incentives now allow for up to 30% of the cost of home improvements — like new windows, insulation, heating, or air conditioning — to an existing home to a maximum of $1,500. That’s money back in your pocket in addition to your power bill savings!
2. Switch to Florescent Bulbs
Fluorescent bulbs may cost more to begin with, but the ending result will eventually lead to big. That’s because fluorescent light bulbs last 8-12 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Even replacing a few of your incandescent bulbs with florescent lighting throughout your home can have an impact in overall energy usage and money.
3. Invest in a Home Security System
Home security systems work. Burglars check for home security systems before attempting a break-in. Most thieves will stop in their tracks if they see any evidence of such a system. In fact, 83% of burglars surveyed said they would try to determine if an alarm was present before attempting a burglary. Home security systems have the added benefit of qualifying you for discounts with many home insurance providers. Home insurers recognize the protection and well-being only a home security system can provide. Check with your home insurance provider today to learn how you can start saving. Some companies offer to cut your premium by as much as 15 or 20 percent if you install a fire and burglar alarm that rings at the police, fire or other monitoring stations. Home security systems are a powerful way to prevent loss, gain peace-of-mind, and reap financial benefits. Consider a home security system from Protect America. We are driven to provide only the highest quality products and dedicated service at an affordable price. Our home security packages provide the equipment necessary to protect your entire home for a fraction of the cost of our competitors’ monthly fees.
4. Invest in a Rain Barrel
A rain barrel is much like it sounds: A large container hooked into a downspout that stores rainwater for later outdoor use. A basic commercial rain barrel can cost as little as $50; a more sophisticated system with multiple barrels, pumps, and spigots can run as much as $600. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a rain barrel can save 1,300 gallons of water during peak summer months. Why pay for water when nature supplies it free of charge? The typical homeowner spends about $150 annually on water used outdoors. Meanwhile, an inch of rain dumped on the roof of a 2,000-square-foot house produces 500 gallons of runoff. It makes sense to harvest that rainwater to nourish plants and rinse off patio furniture. For a fun DIY guide on how to make your own rain barrel, check out this blog!
We hope this post has helped you think about all the ways you can invest your tax return back into your home. Protect America is committed to helping you meet your home security needs while providing you with quality home security systems and service you can depend on. Stay tuned for more updates and tips about home security via our Facebook and Twitter.
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