How Weatherization Can Make Your Home More Comfortable and Energy Efficient

As utility costs rise, weatherization is a smart way for homeowners to lower their monthly utility bills and improve comfort in every room, all while receiving incentives that reduce upfront costs.

Weatherization 101: What Does Weatherization Mean?

Weatherization is the process of boosting your home’s energy efficiency by reducing air leaks, upgrading insulation, and sealing and insulating ducts. Simply put, it helps keep conditioned air in, unconditioned air out, and fresh air flowing in a controlled way.

Where do homes typically leak? According to Energy Star, leaks typically occur in attic hatches, recessed lights, chimney and plumbing penetrations, rim joists and basements, and around windows and doors.

Energy Audit & Priorities

The best projects start with a home energy assessment (often called an energy audit). Professionals use tools like a blower door test and infrared camera to find leaks and weak insulation. Afterwards, professionals will typically follow the upgrade list below to maximize results:

1. Air sealing
2. Attic insulation
3. Duct sealing/insulating
4. Targeted window/door fixes

Where Do I Start?

1) Air Sealing

Small gaps add up. Homeowners who begin to seal cracks will eliminate drafts and reduce the workload on their heating and cooling system. The difference will be felt immediately, especially on windy days.

2) Insulation Upgrades

Insulation will slow heat transfer. Insulation’s effectiveness is measured by what’s known as R-value—the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation is. Because heat rises and often escapes through your roof, it’s especially important to insulate your attic. By upgrading your attic, you’ll reduce drafts and stabilize room temperatures in your home. This is effective both in warm and cold months.

3) Duct Sealing & Ventilation

As surprising as it sounds, leaky ducts will waste a large amount of conditioned air. Energy Star suggests that sealing with mastic sealant (not with duct tape) and insulating ducts in unconditioned areas will keep your system efficient and home comfortable.

4) Windows

Even though it may seem that a full window replacement will be most effective, many homes will benefit first from air sealing and insulation. Improving existing windows through weatherstripping can deliver comfort and savings at a lower cost. Once the energy efficient improvements have been made, homeowners should make sure to check for air leaks again to ensure that everything was properly installed.

What Homeowners Will Save: Bills, Comfort, Health

• Lower bills: Air sealing and insulation will reduce energy waste and how long you need to run your heating and cooling equipment.
• Comfort: Quite simply, the fewer drafts and cold spots you have, the more comfortable you’ll be.
• Healthier air: The EPA states that improved ventilation will reduce the level of contaminants and improve indoor air quality.

Incentives & Programs

Before you go ahead and upgrade your home, there are incentives and programs that you should be aware of.

• Federal tax credits: The IRS states that if you install and begin using your energy improvement products by December 31, 2025, there are federal tax credits available for a portion of the qualifying expenses.
• State and utility programs: Many Northeast utilities and state programs offer rebates for air sealing, insulation, duct sealing, and ventilation equipment. For example, in Vermont, organizations such as Efficiency Vermont offer rebates up to $9,500 for eligible borrowers.

Ready to Begin Saving?

Weatherization provides homeowners with the power to lower utility bills, increase comfort, and enjoy a healthier home for themselves and their loved ones. Homeowners should start with a home energy assessment, research incentives to help cover a portion of the cost, and, finally, see what other financing options are available.