Perform Initial Research

Now that you know what your project is and have determined what performance attributes you desire, you can begin performing some initial research on the different technologies that will apply. Internet searches, web reviews, and consumer publications are all good places to start your research. Check out what other people are saying about these technologies to get a feel for how they might operate. Although information from manufacturers will certainly be important, these channels are a great way to get an idea of real user interaction with the technologies.

If you have not already started searching for any relevant rebate or incentive programs for that type of technology, you should start now. In many cases, rebate and incentive programs will permit a wide range of products under a specific technology category. Some may limit it to ENERGY STAR-certified products for example, but generally you will have a number of different options to choose from. Specifying the exact product you will use will not come into play until you are a little farther down the road, but you need to identify any financial support programs you might be eligible for a given technology.

Performing this initial third party research will begin to narrow the scope of the technologies that will achieve your desired results and are within budget.