Commonly recommended improvements for home energy project.
Sealing air leaks and adding insulation
Many older homes are poorly insulated, and some have no insulation at all. Properly installed insulation in attics, walls, and floors provides for more even temperatures throughout the house and results in a quieter, more comfortable living environment that is less costly to heat and cool.
Sealing and insulating ductwork
Many homes have leaky ductwork and poor air flow, resulting in uncomfortable rooms. Your Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® contractor may recommend sealing your home’s ducts with mastic (air duct sealant), and balancing the duct system to optimize air flow to all rooms. Insulating ductwork in attics and crawl spaces also can reduce energy usage and increase your home’s overall comfort.
Improving heating and cooling systems
If your boiler, furnace, or air conditioner is more than 10 years old, your contractor may recommend replacing it with a properly sized ENERGY STAR® qualified unit. Installed correctly, high-efficiency units can help you save on heating and cooling costs. Such a unit will make your home more comfortable year-round by providing more consistent temperatures and better humidity control regardless of changing outdoor temperatures.
Fixing your combustion equipment
During the home energy audit, your contractor will test the combustion equipment in your home, such as your furnace and hot water heater, to ensure that it operates and vents properly. In addition, the contractor will conduct a carbon monoxide test reading on ovens and other areas to further test the safety of your home. Recommendations will be made based on the test results.
Upgrading lighting and appliances
Energy used for lighting and appliances can account for a great deal of your home’s energy consumption. As a result, your Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Contractor may recommend ENERGY STAR® qualified products, such as refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, room air conditioners, and compact fluorescent light bulbs. An energy efficient hot water heating system may also be recommended.