Weatherize
The Greenest Form of Energy is the Energy You Don’t Use
What is Weatherize?
Weatherizing your home involves physical home improvements—such as insulating and air sealing most often in basement and attic areas—to resolve issues like ice dams, moisture, mold, cold spots and drafts. It prevents indoor air from escaping and outdoor air from entering your home.
Why Weatherize?
Increases Comfort and Safety
Weatherizing increases comfort all year around and helps maintain more consistent temperatures throughout your home. Insulation in the basement makes the floor of your living space less cold. Air sealing and insulation help reduce noises from outside the home.
During the weatherization process, contractors test appliances to ensure that toxic gasses are vented properly. They also ensure that your home has plenty of ventilation and fresh air even after any air sealing improvements are completed.
Lowers Cost
Weatherizing gives a “Big Bang for Your Buck!” and produces immediate energy and cost savings. Experts say that it is more effective in lowering energy costs than replacing windows, especially if you use cellular shades and/or storm windows.
Every home is different, but contractors estimate about a 5 year return on your investment due to savings on your heating bills. Rebates may be available through the NHSaves program. Low cost loans may be available through your bank.
Finally, weatherizing may reduce the required size and maximize the efficiency of any new heating or cooling system.
Help Is Available
There are several resources through which you can learn more and/or get help, such as Vital Communities, NHSaves, and Efficiency Vermont.
Ready? Here's What to Do.
Hire a Specialized Contractor
All weatherization projects should be completed by a contractor certified by the Building Performance Institute (BPI) and, if you wish to qualify for rebates, approved by New Hampshire’s efficiency utility, NHSaves. Your contractor will complete an in-home assessment or energy audit that includes a blower door test and then provide you with detailed recommendations for energy efficiency improvements in an audit report. If you choose to move ahead, you and your contractor will agree on a scope of work that aligns with your budget and priorities.
For tips on finding and selecting a contractor as well as what to expect during an energy audit and from your audit report, visit Vital Communities.
Blower door test in action.
Check Out Low Cost Energy Loans and Rebates
Low Cost Energy Loans. Financing options to help pay for your weatherization project may be available.
Rebates. If your home’s fuel use per square foot meets a certain threshold, you may be eligible for the NHSaves program which offers incentives, rebates, and financing for home energy efficiency projects on a first-come-first-serve basis. For specific information about applying for a rebate, customers of Liberty Utilities should contact Horizon Residential Energy Services at:
Email: nhsaves@horizon-res.com
Phone: 1-603-369-4834
If you qualify for weatherization rebates in New Hampshire, NHSaves will assign you to a qualified local contractor after approving your rebate application.
Low Income Households should check out the Home Energy Assistance Program also available through NH Saves.
Did It? Celebrate!
CONGRATULATIONS ON WEATHERIZING YOUR HOME!
You have now joined many others who have taken similar steps, are actively participating in Hanover’s 100% renewable energy campaign, and will inspire others to do the same.
Here are some suggestions for next steps: