What to Expect from Home Performance with ENERGY STAR

Diagnosing the Problem

Rather than focusing on a single component, such as single-paned windows, an old air conditioning system, or leaky ductwork, EarthsaversO2 will assess how improvements to all of these components can work together to provide:

Common Recommendations

Sealing Air Leaks and Adding Insulation

Many air leaks in homes are fairly obvious, such as around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. But others, like those in attics, around chimneys, and through recessed lighting fixtures, are often the more significant sources of energy loss in a home. Sealing air leaks is critical to improving the overall efficiency of your home and will make your heating and cooling system perform better. Along with air sealing, a verry common, important recommendation is that you add insulation. Many older homes are not well-insulated, and some have no insulation at all. Properly installed insulation in walls, floors, and attics provides for more even temperatures throughout the house and results in a quieter, more comfortable living environment that is easier to heat and cool. Our Infrared Imaging services along with additional testing equipment can find these money, energy robbing problems.

Sealing Ductwork

Many homes have leaky ductwork and poor air flow, resulting in stuffy and uncomfortable rooms — regardless of the thermostat setting. EarthsaversO2 will  recommend sealing your home’s ducts with mastic not tape. Often ductwork leakage is over 50% on the homes we test. By using smoke and a duct blaster we are able to troubleshoot many extensive leakage points in the system. In return a tightly sealed duct system will save you money and offer better indoor air for you and your family!

Improving Heating and Cooling Systems

If your furnace or air conditioner is more than 10 years old, EarthsaversO2 may recommend that you replace it with high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. We will only make this recommendation if it is a cost effective solution to your pocket book. If need a system that is installed correctly, can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs. EarthsaversO2 will work with the contractor and  inforce  quality installation of your cooling equipment. Studies show that half of all central air conditioners in U.S. homes never perform to their advertised capacity and efficiency due to incorrect installation.

Quality Installation Guidelines are based on industry best practices to help avoid common cooling equipment installation problems like incorrect sizing, insufficient refrigerant charge and airflow, and poorly sealed and improperly balanced duct systems. Only selected contractors have the training and certifications necessary to conduct installations that meet ENERGY STAR Quality Installation Guidelines.

Upgrading Lighting and Appliances

Energy used for lighting and appliances can account for half of your home’s total utility bill. As a result, EarthsaversO2 may recommend ENERGY STAR qualified products, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, electronic equipment, light fixtures, and compact fluorescent bulbs. An energy- and water-efficient hot water heating system may also be recommended.

Once you’ve taken steps to increase your home’s efficiency, you may also want to consider adding renewable energy systems, such as solar electric (photovoltaics) or solar hot water, to further reduce your utility bills.

Service area:

• Lewsiton, Idaho
• Moscow, Idaho
• Clarkston, Washington
• Pullman, Washington