A comprehensive home energy upgrade may do many things: seal duct leaks and window frames, insulate drafty walls and ceilings, and replace old windows, doors, ovens, stovetops, HVACs and dryers. There’s a cost to each of these upgrades and potential savings. One of the most significant upgrade considerations is whether appliances and heating or cooling systems run on natural gas or the cleaner and healthier energy choice, electricity.

A Navigator, who may be certified as an energy auditor, can help clients understand these costs and savings. A home energy advisor can help customers consider comprehensive energy solutions.

Isaac has lived in his house in a quiet, rural community for many years. When he purchased it, only the windows and floors had been upgraded. While he’s been able to keep the house well maintained, he has never invested in weatherization that would make his home energy costs more manageable and living areas more comfortable during hot summers or cold winters. The attic and walls were never insulated, and he can see light coming in through cracks around the door and window frames. His appliances are old and inefficient, and his heat pump is old and expensive to maintain. Isaac hears about the Energy Crew, the energy retrofit program run by a local housing nonprofit. He learns that he meets specific income criteria to qualify for the program, and after a couple of years on the waiting list, Isaac’s house is next for consideration.

The first thing his Navigator does is help him obtain an energy audit on his home. The Navigator is also a certified Energy Auditor, so they made an appointment to conduct the home energy audit which:

• Evaluates various energy efficiency improvements.
• Calculates the costs of each improvement.
• Estimates potential energy savings.

With this audit information in hand, the Navigator can then help Isaac:

• Identify which Energy Crew program offerings, and local incentives would apply to each recommended improvement;
• Calculate his total savings after accounting for these incentives; and
• Choose improvements that would maximize his financial benefits while enhancing his home’s comfort, health and safety.

Based upon the audit, the Energy program weatherization contractor added insulation to the attic and walls, sealed cracks around the windows and installed a new exterior door. They also installed a new heat pump and all new electric appliances that Isaac obtained with rebates. Tanya, a member of the Energy Gang, tells Isaac about a new community solar project nearby and that he can join for no initial cost. He will have to pay a subscription to the community solar project’s developer to cover their expenses. Still, even with the subscription, he calculates that he’ll save 10-15% each month compared to grid electricity. He signs up right away. When completed, his improvements significantly improve the energy efficiency, health, comfort and safety of his home.