April is a good time to make plans and start discussions with contractors about changes you want to make to your home during the warmer, longer days of summer. Homes require maintenance to keep them comfortable and safe. The age of your home and its major systems like the roof, windows, and heating and cooling equipment will help provide an idea on when you need to inspect your home to determine if repairs or renovation are in order.
Home upgrades and improvements are typically big investments. You will want to prioritize where to start to make sure your home is safe and comfortable before moving on to some of the “nice to have” items. Many repairs and improvements impact energy use in your home. You will want to understand how the changes will impact your monthly utility costs. Repairs and improvements can increase the efficiency of your home and reduce future utility bills.
An excellent way to start the planning process is to have a certified home energy auditor assess your home. The auditor will go room to room to identify problem areas from a safety and an energy efficiency perspective. Some auditors use equipment such as blower doors to measure how well your home is sealed, and infrared cameras to find areas where insulation is poor or missing. They can also evaluate appliances like furnaces and water heaters to make sure they are in good working condition. Most auditors will also evaluate the windows and insulation to determine if they are adequate.
A certified auditor will give you a written report that details their findings and recommendations on items that need immediate attention for safety as well as energy efficiency upgrades. Empire Electric Association offers audit rebates for members who have inspections performed by one of our approved, certified auditors. EEA will pay 50% of the cost of your audit, up to $500. More information and a list of EEA approved auditors can be found online at eea.coop/programs-help-you-save-energy.
If your audit recommends replacing your heating or air conditioning system, electric heat pumps are an efficient, cost effective way to heat and cool your home. Air source mini split heat pumps are the most popular, but there are also heat pump systems made to replace ducted forced air furnaces. EEA, in partnership with our power supplier Tri State Transmission and Generation Association, offers rebates for several different types of heat pumps. EEA also offers rebates for heat pump water heaters if it is recommended to replace your water heater. Complete EEA rebate information can be found at eea.coop/electrify-save-program.
Planning for success is important. Let EEA help you make your home improvement project a success by sharing the cost of a home energy audit.
Andy Carter is the Member Engagement Manager at Empire Electric Association.
