Q. What tax / cash incentives are currently available for residential energy improvements?
A. GA Power customers are eligible for up to $1900 in applicable improvements. http://www.georgiapower.com/energystar/home_rebates.asp
Residents of Atlanta are eligible for up to $2000 in applicable improvements. http://greeningneighborhoods.com/2010/09/08/city-of-atlanta-money-saving-shine-program/
Federal Tax credit ($1500) applies till the end of 2010 http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index
Q. Our attic insulation is low. Would it be wrong to start the improvement by adding more?
A. Any home improvement project including performance improvement should begin with careful planning. The sole purpose of insulation is to provide thermal barrier. It is not intended to battle radiant heat or air infiltration (drafts). Starting your project with adding insulation will limit your options to further improve the efficiency of your home. Conducting ductwork improvements, air sealing, installation of radiant barrier, improving roof ventilation will involve extensive work in the attic and will result in compressing insulation and compromising its effectiveness. Adding insulation in most cases is a valuable improvement, but it should be done at the right time.
Q.Do I need to have an Assessment (a.k.a. Energy audit) done on my house?
A. House Assessment must be done on the house before we do any improvement work. It does not have to be done by us: we welcome audits conducted by other Home Performance with Energy Star certified professionals. The purpose of an assessment it to prioritize applicable improvements based on cost effectiveness. Another important aspect of an assessment is to ensure that no hazardous conditions such as mold, gas leaks, fire safety issues are present in the house.
Q. How much does an energy audit (home assessment) cost?
A. We conduct Home Performance with Energy Star whole-house assessments. This type of assessment is developed jointly by US EPA and US DOE is the most comprehensive audit designed specifically for existing (not being built) homes. Having an assessment done provides you with an opportunity to apply for GA Power improvement rebates, and to obtaining an Energy Star certificate. The cost of an audit varies usually between $375 and $475. GA Power clients are eligible for a $200 cash rebate. Atlanta resident are eligible for additional $2000 rebate under SHINE program.
Q. How much will a home retrofit cost?
A. Based on our experience, conducting energy improvements on newer homes (under 15 years old) tends to be more affordable. On $2K-$5K budget you can considerably reduce your energy consumption and take advantage of multiple state, federal, and local rebates. Older homes are generally smaller in size, but often require more extensive improvement work. It should be noted that energy retrofits of older homes usually translate into very significant (30% - 50% energy saving).
Q. Why would I choose a Home Performance with Energy Star contactor?
A. HPwES contactors are trained and certified in utilizing a Whole-house approach. In real world, there is no “one size fits all” energy improvement solution. Each house is different and requires a unique set of improvements measures. We provide you with a prioritized list of recommended improvements and let you pick-n-choose the improvements that meet your goals and budget. Our specialty is retrofitting your house in the most cost-effective fashion.
Q. Why would I choose ABCD Improvements over another HPwES contractor?
A. We offer multiple services including insulation updates, air sealing, window replacement, radiant barrier installation, etc based on your home’s unique needs. We utilize building science to achieve maximum energy efficiency benefits for minimal expense.
Q. I know what the home’s problem is. Why would I hire a building performance contractor?
A. In most cases out client’s expectations differ from actual findings during an energy audit since problems are discovered in inaccessible areas of a house. Utilizing Infrared camera, door blower, duct blaster, and other high-tech equipment allows to pinpoint hidden problems. We also guarantee that all improvement work is conducted under a supervision of an Energy Star certified building specialist. Finally, we have a Code certified processional on staff. All that is done to ensure that while one house component is being retrofitted, there is no harm done to other components.
