Most homeowners want to find inexpensive ways to improve their homes, while working with more energy-efficient products.  In some areas of the United States, state building codes are making it a requirement to add energy efficient materials when doing an upgrade on your home.  So, just what exactly are some of the items you can add to your home to make it a little greener.

First of all, probably the most popular solar powered items would be solar panels on your home’s roof, or anywhere they can take in the most sunlight.  Most solar panels face the South where they can capture the greatest amount of sunlight throughout the day.  Solar panels can be purchased at any home improvement store

Solar powered water heaters are one of the most economic ways to save money on your home.  With one of these items, you could be saving 10 times the amount of money spent on your water heating bills, while giving your hot water heater as much as a double lifetime expectancy.  More than that, you might even qualify for a tax credit of up to 30%.

Another option you might want to look into is with wind energy.  There are a lot of people who imagine huge wind farms with this, but you can add wind turbines to your home.  With wind energy, you could save as much as 90% on your yearly electric bills.  It works in conjunction with your utility company, and it is estimated that a wind generator can offset more than 200 tons of greenhouse gases over its lifetime.

Also, look for any appliances and other home improvement materials, with the EnergyStar logo.  This says that the item in question has proven to help save energy, while still providing you with top quality service.  Most will think of washing machines and refrigerators, but you can also find this logo on windows, doors, and even skylights.  It’s a great way to ensure you’re doing your part for the environment.

Check into your local building codes, and see if you need to comply with state standards in energy efficiency.  Adding solar and wind powered energy to your home, you’ll find that a lot of the money you gave out each month, will spend more time in your pocket.  And that means, you’ll have more left over for bigger and better things.