A great way to cut down on energy loss and drafts at exterior doors is to install storm doors. If you installed new storm doors in 2010, be sure to check out whether you qualify for 2010 federal tax credit. Or, if you intend to install a storm door in 2011, investigate the energy-saving products that qualify for 2011 tax credits.

What is covered? The tax-incentive programs cover storm doors that, when used in combination with wood doors 1) have a U-factor and SHGC of 0.30 or below and 2) meet the prescriptive criteria for such components established by the IECC. This is a little complicated, so check out the specifics with the dealer when making your purchase.

The amount of the 2010 federal tax credit is 30% of the material cost, up to $1,500; the 2011 program may cover 10%, up to $200. Installation costs are not included.

For the 2010 program, the storm doors must have been placed into service between Jan. 1, 2009, and Dec. 31, 2010, on your principal residence. For the 2011 program, they must be installed by December 31, 2011.

A Manufacturer’s Certification (a statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product qualifies for the tax credit) is often available from the manufacturer’s website. This statement should incude information about the performance of the storm door when placed over various specific types of exterior doors. This should be kept in your tax records along with your receipt. When filing your federal tax return, submit IRS Tax Form 5695. (For more information, see the Storm Door Buying Guide.)