Highlights
Overview
Shortly after David Hedison and his spouse purchased their forever home in Newton, Massachusetts, they noticed extreme temperature fluctuations, leading them to close off certain rooms to keep the main living areas comfortable.
The couple attempted to make weatherization upgrades themselves, but when they uncovered the packing peanuts that the previous owners had used for insulation, they knew they needed an expert.
Goal
The Newton home had not seen major updates since the 1960s. The Hedisons’ primary goals for this project were to reduce heat loss, make the home more efficient and increase comfort.
Outcome
After connecting with Eversource-approved contractor Rogers Insulation, the family received a no-cost Home Energy Assessment. Based on the findings, the contractor provided a customized energy-saving plan for the 2,460 square foot home. The recommendations included:
- Upgrading Insulation. A vapor barrier was installed in the basement crawlspace to prevent moisture damage, improve the efficacy of the new insulation and regulate indoor temperature. Air leaks in the home’s brick façade were sealed and insulation was added in the dormers, replacing the unsafe and inefficient packing peanuts.
- Heating and Cooling System Replacements. Rogers Insulation collaborated with lead vendor, CLEAResult, to remove the home’s oil tank and install new, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. The Hedison family wanted to minimize architectural changes, so two high-efficiency boilers and condensers were installed in the main living areas, and a mini-split heat pump was installed in the attic.
- Electric Wiring Updates. The home’s electrical wiring was brought up to code, improving safety and supporting the new heating and cooling system.
- New Appliances. To round out the project, ENERGY STAR® certified appliances and a smart thermostat were installed.
Thanks to over $15,000 in incentives from Eversource and a $25,000 0% interest HEAT Loan, these upgrades were both practical and affordable. Now, the Hedison family, along with their two dogs, enjoy increased at-home comfort and over $1,700 in annual energy savings.
The information in this case study is an accurate representation of this customer’s experience at the time of publication. Results, including cost savings, from heat pump installation and/or other energy efficiency measures can vary based on each individual customer’s situation.