With the holidays now in the rearview mirror, many people are turning their attention to the upcoming tax season. For some, Uncle Sam will be sending a nice refund their way. Instead of spending that money on the newest gadget or an impromptu trip, consider reinvesting those funds back into your home. The following home improvement projects offer a number of ways to put your tax refund to good use. You'll increase the value of your home and most importantly, you'll be able to enjoy your upgrades. No matter if the project is large or small, making home improvement plans is an excellent way to get off to a fantastic start in 2017!

Improve Energy Efficiency

One of the best ways to invest is to make improvements to your home's energy efficiency. For example, homeowners can have an energy audit done on their home, which will reveal areas where energy leaks are taking place. Sometimes all it takes is updating weatherstripping and door seals to help reduce energy use throughout the year. For others, updating home lighting to more energy efficient options is the way to go. Not only will these small projects reduce your energy costs, but they are also great for the environment. In some cases, making your home greener can even result in tax benefits that can be put to use on next year's return!

Reduce Water Usage

Another great way to cut back on utility costs and conserve resources is to update your home's plumbing fixtures. By installing new low-flow showerheads, homeowners can cut their water use considerably. The newest options have made use of recent technology to provide a spa-like shower experience while using less of this natural resource. Having a smaller water bill is also a nice treat.

Replace Outdated Light Fixtures

If the architecture and design of your home is more of a fashion choice, then the fixtures and finishes you choose act as accessories. Just as in fashion, styles and trends tend to come and go over the years. If your home's light fixtures seem dated or drab, it may be time to refresh them with newer versions. There is a wide range of available options to suit virtually any taste or budget, and swapping out light fixtures throughout your home is a relatively inexpensive way to bring a whole new feel to different rooms. In addition, many newer light fixtures are designed with energy efficiency in mind so that you can cover two bases with one small change!

At Northern Lighting, we pride ourselves on helping our customers find the best possible fit for their lighting needs, no matter how big or small the project may be. For homeowners who are considering investing their tax return back into their home, we think that you should start with us. Feel free to contact our lighting professionals or visit our showroom to get a few ideas!