Still Plenty of Time to take Advantage of Tax Credit for Energy Efficient Windows and Doors

The tax credit for energy efficient replacement windows and doors was introduced in 2009 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The credit is available until the end of 2010, so homeowners still have plenty of time to benefit from this program.

The Wetumpka Herald (Alabama) quotes Chris Pickering, vice president, marketing, Ply Gem windows as saying, "New windows not only make the home look more beautiful, they can help save energy and money for the homeowners." Pickering adds that, "homeowners can take advantage of the tax credit to increase the value of their home, plus shave some of the cost off of their monthly power bill."

The Herald also points out that homeowners can receive a tax credit worth 30 percent of the purchase price of qualifying energy efficient windows, up to a maximum of $1,500 if purchased and installed by Dec. 31, 2010. Installation costs are not included.

Those seeking to take advantage of the tax credit should save the invoice that shows a breakout of window and installation costs, the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) labels from all windows and doors, and the manufacturer's certificate.

Replacement windows must have a glass package with a U-factor rating (the rate at which heat is prevented from escaping) of .30 or lower. Qualifying windows must also possess a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating of .30 or lower. The lower the window's SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits.

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