Home Energy Saving

PENNSYLVANIA HOME POWER BOOSTERS
A Guide to
HOME
ENERGY
SAVINGS
SUCCESS STORIES INSIDE
Saving
Getting Started: Begin Saving Energy and Money Now
Perform a do-it-yourself home energy audit to identify air leakage (drafts), lack of insulation, and
inefficient lighting (page 26).
COST: Free
PROJECT TIME: Two hours
ANNUAL SAVINGS: Identify savings potential of
25% or more ($400)
Turn water heater temperature down to 1200 and install a water heater insulation jacket (page 51).
COST: $12 to $15
PROJECT TIME: 30 minutes
ANNUAL SAVINGS: $25 to $50
Install water-conserving showerheads and faucets (page 51).

COST: $15 to $30
PROJECT TIME: One hour
Air seal air-handling ducts in unconditioned spaces with mastic (page 30).
COST: $40
PROJECT TIME: Half day
Replace frequently used incandescent lights with compact fluorescent lights (page 59) .
COST: $40 to $60
PROJECT TIME: Ten minutes
ANNUAL SAVINGS: $30 (CFLs will last for up to seven years)
Install a programmable thermostat; set back temperature in winter to 550 when sleeping or away
from the home and to 780 during the summer (page 43).
COST: $50 to $100
PROJECT TIME: Two hours
Caulk around windows and door frames and weatherstrip windows and doors; air seal all accessible
plumbing and electrical penetrations in the building envelope (page 29).
COST: $100 to $200
PROJECT TIME: One day
Upgrade attic insulation to R-49 (page 34).

COST: $250 to $750
PROJECT TIME: One day
Based on a survey of retail product prices and national average home energy costs. Actual savings will depend on
the size and features of your house, as well as local retail product prices and energy costs.
Contents
Acknowledgments ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ii
Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................1
Success Stories
Tamasin Sterner and Richard Senft ........................ Lancaster .................................................................................................................................... 6
Kathleen and Paul Gaberson ...................................... Forest Hills ................................................................................................................................. 8
Lyn and Anne Pherigo .................................................... Whitehall ................................................................................................................................. 10
Vivian VanStory .................................................................... Philadelphia .......................................................................................................................... 12
George and Charlotte Britton .................................... Lafayette Hill ......................................................................................................................... 14
John Blackwell ..................................................................... Pittsburgh ............................................................................................................................... 16
Michael and Tracey Sgrignoli ..................................... Middletown .......................................................................................................................... 18
Michael and Stacey Stepp ............................................ Steelton ................................................................................................................................... 20
Todd and Shayne Garcia-Bish .................................... Prospect .................................................................................................................................. 22
Energy Efficiency Basics: Tips, Techniques, and Products
Home Energy Audit ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Building Envelope ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Insulation ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Windows .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Heating .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43
Cooling .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 47
Water Heating ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 51
Appliances ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Lighting ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 59
Home Office ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62
Financing
Energy-Efficient Mortgages .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 64
Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Loans .......................................................................................................................................................... 65
Rebates .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 68
Low-Income Assistance Programs ................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
Community-Based Energy Assistance Organizations .......................................................................................................................................... 68
Resources ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Acknowledgments
Authors:
Photos:
Illustrations:
Design:
Christopher Sherry and Chad Medcroft

Safe Energy Communication Council
1717 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 106
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 483-8491
Chad Medcroft (case studies), all others courtesy of National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Courtesy of Southface Energy Institute
Freehand Press
Washington, DC
any homeowners, builders, energy professionals, and organizations shared not only their data and experiences,
but also their enthusiasm for the numerous benefits of energy efficiency. Without their help, this book would
not have been possible.
The authors wish to thank the families and individuals that welcomed us into their homes to share their energy efficiency
successes first hand. We would also like to thank Bernie Campanella, Tony Kimmel, Bob Nape, Jim Richard, David Shiller, A.J.
Stones, and the New England Solar Energy Association for providing us with these success stories.
We would like to thank the following individuals for reviewing draft versions of the manuscript: Mike Barcik, Southface
Energy Institute; Kate Offringa, Efficient Windows Collaborative; Harvey Sachs, American Council for an Energy-Efficient
Economy; David Shiller, Conservation Consultants, Inc; Tamasin Sterner, Pure Energy; and Subid Wagley, Northeast Energy
Efficiency Partnerships. Scott Denman provided editorial guidance throughout the drafting of the manuscript.
Southface Energy Institute, the National Fenestration Rating Council, and the Efficient Windows Collaborative graciously
allowed us to reproduce illustrations and graphics.
The Safe Energy Communication Council would like to recognize the generous support of the following organizations for
making this report and the dissemination of its findings possible: U.S. Department of Energy, the Howard Heinz Endowment,
an anonymous donor, Citizens for Pennsylvanias Future (PennFuture), and the George Gund Foundation.
Photo credits: Steven Strong (cover), Warren Gretz (cover, p. 1, p. 26, p. 28, p. 51), Karen Doherty (p. 33), Dave Parsons (p. 39),
Donald Aitken (p. 43), Sara Farrar (p. 47), and D&R International (p. 59).
Introduction
ennsylvania Home Power Boosters enables you to

quickly and easily tap into the opportunities
provided by increasing the energy efficiency of your
home. An average household pays $1,700 a year in energy
bills. Making your home more energy efficient can reduce
these costs by up to 50%. But the real payback from
improving energy efficiency is a more comfortable and
healthy home with a higher resale value. Energy-efficient
homes not only use less energy; they are higher quality
homes that are more pleasing to live in. In short, energy
efficiency is a good investment, both from
financial and quality-of-life standpoints.
Energy efficiency can be incorporated into
a home from the start by paying attention
to design and construction details. The
prescriptions may be varied, but all result in
the construction of a higher quality home.
Energy efficiency can also be improved
substantially in existing homes. Inefficient
homes are often uncomfortable and
sometimes even unhealthy to live in. Easily
achievable energy efficiency improvements
will generally solve most home comfort
problems while reducing energy bills and
increasing home resale value.
Through simple, understandable descriptions and real-life success stories,
Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters
demonstrates how to:
Save money
Improve comfort
Increase the resale value of your home
Improve monthly net cash flow through energyefficient mortgages and loans
Help the environment by reducing pollution
Reduce maintenance costs and service call backs
Home Energy Expenditures

Other1 13%
Computers1%
Space Heating 29%
Electronics 5%
Cooking 5%
Clothes/Dish Washing 5%
Refrigeration 10%
Space Cooling 11%
Lighting 6%
Water Heating 15%
Note: 1. Includes small electric devices, heating elements, motors, swimming

pool and hot tub heaters, and outdoor grills.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Building Technology, BTS Core Data
Book, 2001.
Introduction
Home Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Other1 12%
Computers 1%
Electronics 5%
Space Heating 32%
Cooking 5%
Clothes/Dish Washing 5%
At the end of the booklet, a comprehensive

list of resources will guide you to
organizations that provide energy
efficiency services and can help you
through the process of improving the
energy efficiency of your home. The
rewards, as outlined below, will be a home
that is more comfortable, less expensive to
live in, more valuable, and healthier and
safer for you and your family.
Refrigeration 9%
More Comfortable
Inefficient homes are poorly air sealed and
Lighting 6%
insulated and rely on inefficient or
Water Heating 15%
improperly sized heating and cooling
systems. The result is drafts and cold spots
Note: 1. Includes small electric devices, heating elements, motors, swimming
next to walls and windows, and heating and
pool and hot tub heaters, and outdoor grills.
cooling systems that cycle on and off
Book, 2001.
frequently or run for extended periods to
maintain indoor temperatures. Because of
these problems, inefficient homes may often
feel uncomfortable even when the heater or air conditioner
Prevent home damage due to moisture and pests
is running. The quality construction details in an energy Improve indoor air quality
efficient home reduce air leakage (felt as drafts in extreme
cases) and radiant heat loss from occupants to surfaces, such
as windows and walls (eliminating spots that are cold even
with the heat on). As a result, occupants feel warmer in the
winter and cooler in the summer in an energy-efficient house.
Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters provides real-life
stories of individuals who successfully reduced energy
Increased Value
usage and improved the comfort of their homes. Their
Energy efficiency improvements will increase the resale
testimonials and lessons learned underscore the fact that
value of your home. A recent national analysis, published
improving home energy efficiency is easily achievable
in the Appraisal Journal, found that every one-dollar
and cost effective.
reduction in annual household energy costs increases the
selling price of a home by $20. This translates to a $2,000
The following pages provide step-by-step guidelines for
increase in the value of a home for every $100 in annual
improving the energy efficiency of heating and cooling
energy savings. Energy-efficient mortgages are available
systems, lighting, and appliances. You will also find
that provide preferred financing for the purchase or
strategies for sealing air leaks and increasing insulation in
refinance of energy-efficient homes and the cost of home
walls, floors, and ceiling. Each section provides an overview
improvement projects that improve energy efficiency. As a
of typical problems encountered in inefficient homes and
result, borrowers can enjoy a more comfortable home while
provides a guide to improving energy efficiency, including
improving monthly net cash flow.
a project checklist of measures that should not be ignored.
Space Cooling 10%
Using the Guide to Home Energy Savings
Introduction
Higher Quality
Energy-efficient homes employ quality design features and
are built according to construction best practices. The
quality construction and attention to detail in energyefficient homes improves the durability and longevity of
the home. In energy-efficient new homes, quality
construction reduces service callbacks to address moisture
and comfort problems often experienced shortly after
residents move in. Air sealing and proper ventilation
reduces the potential for moisture damage to building
materials, such as framing and insulation. The attention to
detail required in the construction of energy-efficient
homes is also often reflected in the high quality of nonenergy related details throughout the home.
Healthier to Live In
Inefficient homes often suffer from moisture problems, such
as condensation on windows and the growth of mold and
other biological contaminants. Poorly air-sealed homes are
usually overly dry in the winter and overly moist in the
summer. These extremes in relative humidity can be
unhealthy. Air sealing prevents uncontrolled air movement
through the building envelope, which can transport
moisture and pollutants into the interior of a home. Proper
air sealing and adequate mechanical ventilation will help
maintain interior humidity levels at a healthy median. Many
energy-efficient homes have sealed combustion heating
and water heating systems, eliminating the risk of
backdrafting of dangerous combustion gases, such as

carbon monoxide.
Better for the Environment
Improving home energy efficiency reduces the environmental impact of a home by reducing the pollution created
by electricity generation and home fuel combustion.Each year,
the average household produces 13 tons of carbon dioxide, a
greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Electricity
use, in particular, creates large amounts of pollution. The
electricity used annually by an average Pennsylvania household is responsible for the creation of 65 pounds of sulfur
dioxide and 24 pounds of nitrogen oxides, which contribute
to acid rain and smog. In Pennsylvania, average household
electricity usage is also responsible for the creation of a quarter
ounce of high-level nuclear waste each year.
Getting Started
The inside cover provides a list of quick and easy measures
that will result in significant energy savings and improve the
comfort and quality of your home. Refer to the checklists at
the end of each success story and topical section in the
following pages for additional suggestions.Many organizations
and programs are available to help you with expert advice
and professional energy efficiency services. These resources
are listed by topic at the end of the text to help you find the
information and services you need. Good luck!
Section 1
Residential Energy Efficiency
Success Stories
Tamasin Sterner and Richard Senft Lancaster, PA
ost people dont like to take their work home

with them. But for energy efficiency professional
Tamasin Sterner, her home has become a shining
example of her work.
Tamasin and Richard Senft bought their 3,000 sq. ft. house
in 1997 because it was built well and carefully maintained.
After reviewing the previous owners energy bills and
inspecting the inefficient oil-fired boiler,Tamasin realized that
the house was an energy hog, but she also saw a lot of
promise. We wanted an energy-efficient and comfortable
house, so we knew we had to do major house air sealing
and replace the inefficient boiler, explained Tamasin.
Beginning with an energy audit, Tamasin used a blower
door test to check for air leakage and pressure tested
the air-handling ducts to check the seals. The tests
revealed major air leakage in the attic and the basement
and leaky ducts. Not surprisingly, she also found that the
50-year-old boiler, which had been backed up with an
electric heat pump, was extremely inefficient and
expensive to operate.
Using a weatherization contractor and their own handy
work, the new homeowners began to address the most
obvious air leaks first. The couple removed twenty eight
1950s-style square recessed lights that were a major
source of air leakage, a common problem in older

houses. These were replaced with surface-mounted
fixtures and fitted with compact fluorescent bulbs,
resulting in greater energy efficiency and a reduction
in heat loss. An old whole-house fan was also removed
since it was oversized and also a source of air leakage.
Tamasin and Richard managed to reduce air leakage
further by sealing off the laundry chute, which acted as
an air chase, and by sealing the chimney chase, which
leaked air from the basement to the attic.
Cold drafts that were previously felt

throughout the house were eliminated.
To further improve thermal performance, the slopes and
knee walls of the attic were air sealed and insulated using
expanding foam and rigid foam board insulation. Then
cellulose insulation (R-40) was blown into the attic.
Insulation was added to the block wall between the garage
and the first floor. Air leakage in the basement and crawl
space was addressed by air sealing the walls from the
outside and wet-spray cellulose insulation (R-19) was blown
onto the interior walls of the crawl space. A ventilation fan
(35 CFM, with a variable speed controller) was installed in
Other problems still remained after Tamasin and

Richard moved into the home. The exterior walls, which
are comprised of brick and plaster, had no insulation.
To cut energy losses, an insulation contractor was hired
to blow cellulose insulation into the wall cavities
through the basement rim joist and down from the
soffits to improve the insulation value of the exterior
walls. The gable end walls were also filled with blown
cellulose by drilling holes in the plaster walls from
inside the house. Together, these measures have
dramatically reduced heating needs and allowed for
the purchase of a much smaller boiler.
As with most houses built during the1950s and,
unfortunately, many built today, the heating and cooling
systems were oversized to accommodate for a lack of
optimal insulation. After improving the building envelope
through air sealing and added insulation, Tamasin and
Richard were ready to replace the inefficient 50-year-old oil
boiler that took up most of the basement. They gained an
entire room when it was replaced with a high efficiency (95%
AFUE), direct-vent condensing gas boiler. When we have
visitors, the first thing I show them is our boiler. It is the size
of a suitcase and hangs on the wall, said Tamasin proudly.
The new boiler heats the entire house and all the domestic
hot water through an indirect water storage tank, replacing
not only the old oil boiler but also the electric heat pump
and hot water heater.This translates into big energy savings.
The natural gas bill now averages only $60 per month,
despite the fact that gas is used for heat and hot water and
fuels a clothes dryer, range, fireplace, and a grill.
Tamasin and Richard continue to use the electric heat
pump for cooling on the hottest of summer days. To
improve cooling efficiency, they sealed all of the airhandling ducts, insulated the ducts by covering them with
blown cellulose in unconditioned spaces, and installed
new gaskets and seals on the registers. Now the cooled
air goes exactly where it is needed the most, rather than
leaking into unconditioned spaces.
IMPACT
the crawl space to provide continuous fresh air. After all of

these improvements, the cold drafts that were previously
felt throughout the house were eliminated.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT FEATURES:
Air-sealed building envelope (attic,

chimney chase, and laundry chute)
Increased levels of insulation in

attic, crawl space, and exterior walls
Air-sealed and insulated airhandling ducts
High-efficiency direct-vent
condensing gas boiler
Compact fluorescent lights in

surface-mounted ceiling fixtures
Energy Star refrigerator, washing

machine, computers, and copier
ENERGY SAVINGS: 35%

($610 annually)
To keep electric bills low, they have purchased Energy Star

appliances for the two home offices, kitchen, and laundry
room.These include computers, a copier, a refrigerator, and
a front-loading washing machine. All of these appliances
exceed federal efficiency standards by 15% to 110%,
resulting in lower operating costs each month. We are
proud of our appliances and feel good about having a lowimpact home. We invest in energy efficiency because we
believe it is the right thing to do, explained Tamasin.Thats
also why they have chosen to purchase cleaner electricity,
generated in part by renewable energy, from a green power
provider. Even though they pay a small premium for cleaner
electricity, their electric bill averages only $85 per month.
Tamasin and Richard estimate that they have reduced
annual energy costs by 35% and will continue to reap
the benefits from these investments for years to come.
Explaining that the benefits are more than financial,
Tamasin concluded, Now our house is comfortable all
year. We tend to stay home when we have days off instead
of going away, because we love our home.
Kathleen and Paul Gaberson Forest Hills, PA
athleen and Paul Gaberson wasted no time

making major changes to their three-bedroom
brick house in the suburbs of Pittsburgh once it
was purchased in 1994. Many of the changes began as
cosmetic improvements or necessary replacements, but
with foresight and wise decision making, the
renovations also resulted in substantial improvement
in the energy efficiency of their home. Now, in addition
to having a higher resale value, their house is more
comfortable and more affordable to live in.
One project that was high on the list was a window
upgrade. Our single-pane aluminum windows were
losing lots of heat, reported Kathleen. The heat inside
was easily transferred through the aluminum and thin
glass to the outside. In 1995, they replaced nearly all of
the windows with double-pane, vinyl-clad insulated
windows with low-emissivity (low-e) glass. Once
installed, sealed, and weatherized, the new windows
reduced heat loss much more effectively than the
previous ones. As a result, the Gabersons no longer
experience cold drafts and are able to turn the
thermostat down without sacrificing comfort.
In 1998, the Gabersons were ready to add a deck and french
doors to the back of the house, so they contacted local
contractor A. J. Stones, who specializes in energy-efficient
building and remodeling. After consulting with A. J. about
the project, Kathleen and Paul decided it was also an ideal
time to add insulation, increase natural daylight, and improve
the ventilation of the house.
Since A. J. had to knock out part of the rear dining room
wall to install the new french doors, it was the perfect
opportunity to add more than three inches of cellulose
insulation to the wall cavity. He also added twelve inches
of insulation in the attic, boosting its R-value to 44. After
living through a couple of winters with the increased
levels of insulation and hearing her neighbors complain
of rising gas prices, Kathleen said,Our gas bills did not go
up despite the rise in fuel costs. We have a more
comfortable home thats cooler in the summer and

warmer in the winter.
One of the main objectives of the renovation was to
increase the natural light in the generally dark house. This
was achieved by adding skylights with energy-efficient
insulating glass to the living room and by installing french
doors that open to a sunny, southern exposure. Once the
We have a more comfortable home

thats cooler in the summer and
warmer in the winter.
renovation was complete, the Gabersons also chose to
replace many incandescent lights with compact
fluorescent lights.Together, these changes have produced
a brighter and more pleasant living area while reducing
lighting costs by more than 50%.
When A. J. suggested some ways to increase natural
ventilation, the couple took his advice.We dont like to use
air conditioning when we can avoid it, explained Kathleen.
Ridge ventilation was installed on the roof to reduce heat
buildup in the attic, ceiling fans were carefully located to
increase air circulation, and skylights were added. Now cool
We like knowing that we are making

less of an impact on the environment.
Kathleen and Paul invested in energy efficiency for two
reasons: a concern for the environment and a desire to
save money on energy expenditures. When deciding to
purchase a new appliance or renovate a room in the
house, the Gabersons simply factor in the life-cycle energy
costs and select the most appropriate energy-efficient
products. Their gas furnace is more than 15 years old but
it is still fairly efficient, because, as Kathleen observed,We
change the filter regularly and have it inspected and
cleaned every year. On the other hand, the Gabersons
recently replaced the washer and dryer with Energy Star
models once they determined the potential annual water
and electricity savings.
After all of these improvements, Kathleen calculated the
monthly energy savings to be roughly 30%.They currently
pay an average of $49 per month for electricity and $54
per month for natural gas. These costs take into account
the fact that the couple pays a premium on their
electricity bill to support renewable energy development.
We like knowing that we are making less of an impact
on the environment, said Kathleen. At the Gabersons
home, it certainly shows.
IMPACT
air from downstairs flows through the house, and warm air
is allowed to exit through the skylights,which can be opened
on hot days, creating a natural ventilation current. Happy
with the results, Kathleen reported,Last summer, we didnt
have the air conditioner on for more than a few days.
Double-pane, vinyl-clad insulated

windows with low-e glazing
Increased levels of insulation in

attic and wall cavities
Daylighting, natural ventilation

(skylights with energy-efficient
insulating glass)
Passive solar heating (french doors

that open to a sunny, southern
exposure)
Compact fluorescent lights
Natural cooling (ridge ventilation

installed on the roof, ceiling fans
carefully located to increase air
circulation, skylights to create
air current)
Energy Star washing machine

and dryer
ENERGY SAVINGS: 30%

($370 annually)
Lyn and Anne Pherigo Whitehall, PA
yn and Anne Pherigo retired a few years ago and

decided to move into a smaller house just outside
of Allentown. Since the Pherigos paid less than $100
per month in energy bills for their previous 2,900 sq. ft.
home, they were no strangers to the concept of energy
efficiency. The couple was pleasantly surprised, however,
when they found an Energy Star townhouse that could
save even more in energy costs. Houses that meet Energy
Star standards are designed to use at least 30% less energy
than houses built to meet the Model Energy Code.
Lyn and Anne are glad to expound on the benefits of
buying an Energy Star house. When we purchased our
townhouse, we were impressed by the quality
construction, floor plan, and the location, said Lynn.
However, after a few months we were happily surprised
by the savings gained from a combination of superior
construction, higher insulation levels, and advanced
energy-conserving heating and cooling systems. Buying
an Energy Star home has paid off. The Pherigos pay an
average of only $60 per month for both gas and electricity
service for their new 1,900 sq. ft. home.
As Lyn suggests, the difference between an energyefficient house and an energy hog is found in the
details. During the construction of the townhouse, the
building envelope was thoroughly air sealed before
any insulation was added. After framing was
completed, drywall was installed and all the seams in
the building envelope were caulked, including around
10
window and doorframes. Expanding foam insulation

was used to fill any large gaps. Once the building
envelope was completed, an independent contractor
was hired to perform a blower door test to measure
air leakage and guarantee proper energy performance.
Most houses built today are constructed with 2 x 4
framing, which restricts the amount of insulation that can
be fit into the wall cavity, limiting the insulation value to
R-13. Since the colder climates of eastern Pennsylvania
The difference between an energyefficient house and an energy hog is

found in the details.
require higher levels of insulation, the Pherigos builder
used 2 x 6 framing for the exterior walls to allow room for
thicker wall cavity insulation (R-19). Insulation in the
garage ceiling (R-19), below the basement slab (R-11), and
in the attic (R-38) helps keep the house warm in the winter
and cool in the summer.
The Pherigos Energy Star home is equipped with doublepane, gas-filled, low-e, vinyl-framed windows. These
features provide nearly four times better thermal
performance than single-paned windows. This translates
into lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.
With higher levels of wall insulation and a properly airsealed building envelope, the builder was able to install
smaller heating, cooling, and hot water systems. This
resulted in a lower purchase price for the home and lower
operating costs. A high-efficiency gas furnace, central air
conditioner, and an energy-efficient gas water heater keep
the Pherigos comfortable year round for less money.
IMPACT
The house also features an insulated front door, with an

adjustable sill for a tighter seal, and a storm door.
Air-sealed building envelope
Air-sealed and insulated air-handling ducts
High level of insulation in walls (2 x 6
framing of exterior walls allowing for
thicker wall cavity insulation)
Double-pane, gas-filled, low-e, vinylframed windows and sliding glass door
Smaller heating and cooling systems

were installed, resulting in a lower
home purchase price and lower
operating costs.
To ensure maximum energy efficiency, air-handling ducts
were properly air sealed and insulated during construction. Hot water pipes were insulated to reduce waterheating costs. The couple expects to reduce heating and
cooling costs even more by installing a recently
purchased programmable thermostat.
When Lyn and Anne moved into the new house, they
decided to replace most of their older appliances. Using
the Energy Guide and Energy Star labels, the couple was
able to select some of the most energy-efficient appliances
on the market, including a self-cleaning flat-top radiant
range, a water-conserving washing machine, and efficient
computers and printers for the home office.Their electricity
bill averages only $32 per month, less than most apartment
renters would expect to pay.
Insulated front door with adjustable seal

High-efficiency natural gas furnace,
central air conditioning unit
High-efficiency hot water heater,
insulated hot water pipes
Energy Star appliances, computers,
and printers
ENERGY SAVINGS: 30%

less energy usage than a
comparably sized home
built to Model Energy Code
standards ($215 annually)
The Pherigos are thrilled with the new Energy Star home
and dont plan to move again anytime soon. With the
possibility of energy prices increasing, I would encourage
all home buyers to actively pursue any and all energysaving features, said Lyn.
11
Vivian VanStory Philadelphia, PA
ivian VanStory moved into her new 1,280 sq. ft.

rowhouse in 1985 and has enjoyed its affordability
and location in the heart of North Philadelphia ever
since. She was aware at the time that the house was
designed and built to maximize use of the suns free
energy. Now that she is accustomed to having a
comfortable, bright home that is also energy efficient, she
cant imagine it any other way.
A year before she moved in, the National Temple NonProfit Corporation started developing a block of 23
rowhouses, including Vivians house, with a grant from
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD). The original goal was to revitalize
the dilapidated urban neighborhood by offering new
houses at affordable prices. During planning, the
Passive solar features provide natural

daylight to every room in the house,
making it bright and cheery year round.
projects architect, Bob Thomas, suggested that instead
of merely offering affordable new housing, energyefficient technologies and passive solar features should
be incorporated into the design to make energy costs
more affordable.
To incorporate passive solar and energy-efficient features
into the houses at no additional cost, Thomas utilized
innovative and cost-effective design strategies. The backs
of the houses face almost due south to take full advantage
of the winter sunshine. From Vivians backyard, one can
see her large, south-facing, double-paned windows;
clerestory windows; and Trombe walls, which contain
heat-collecting panels. These passive solar features
provide natural daylight to every room in the house,
making it bright and cheery year round. The main
objective, however, is to collect and absorb the winter
12
The house was designed with R-30 insulation in the

cathedral ceilings and R-25 insulation in the exterior walls,
which were constructed using eight-inch concrete block
insulated with four inches of rigid foam board insulation
With a solar home, you dont

feel closed in.
and covered with a fiberglass stuccolike material. During
construction, all door and window frames, floor and
ceiling junctures, and electrical and plumbing
penetrations were caulked to reduce air leakage. Vivians
house also has an airlock entry that prevents heat from
escaping when the front door is opened. In the winter,
these measures allow the house to retain the suns heat
in the evening and through the night, until the sun rises
again the next morning.
During the summer, clerestory windows can be opened,
reducing the need for air conditioning by venting warm
air from the house. This provides natural cooling by
creating air movement through the house and
removing interior heat buildup. The concrete walls and
light-colored roof also help to maintain a comfortable
interior temperature during the summer months.
Vivian rarely turns the lights on during the day, because
her clerestory windows and spacious cathedral ceilings
provide plenty of natural daylighting and a pleasant
atmosphere.With a solar home, you dont feel closed in,
IMPACT
suns heat throughout the day and then radiate the stored
heat at night. The heat is quickly dispersed throughout
the house using a natural ventilation system to provide a
warm and comfortable environment.
Passive solar heating and daylighting

(heat-collecting Trombe wall; southfacing, double-paned windows;
clerestory windows)
Air-sealed building envelope (door

and window frames, floor and ceiling
junctures, plumbing and electrical
penetrations, air lock entry)
High level of insulation in exterior

walls
Light-colored roof (to reduce

cooling load)
ENERGY SAVINGS: 60%

comparably sized house
built to minimum code
standards
remarked Vivian. Instead, she explained that she feels free,
as if she were in the outdoors.This freedom also manifests
itself through lower energy bills.
Altogether, Vivian is paying 60% less for energy compared
to a similarly sized house built to minimum code
standards. Since she fully understands the benefits of
living in an energy-efficient, passive solar home, Vivian is
thrilled to share her knowledge and experiences with
others. Every year she does just this by opening her home
to the public during the American Solar Energy Societys
National Tour of Solar Homes.
13
George and Charlotte Britton Lafayette Hill, PA
fter the children left home, George and Charlotte

Britton decided to move into a smaller house. This
prompted George to begin thinking about
designing and building a solar home. The Brittons
wanted a house that incorporated ecological values and
also enabled them to be as independent as possible
from the utility companies. I was willing to make some
changes in my home to make a difference, said George.
After four years of reading and learning about solar
architecture, the Brittons purchased some land and
found a builder to turn their design into reality. The result
is a beautiful 2,900 sq. ft. passive solar house that uses
20% less energy than a similarly sized conventional
house built to minimum code standards.
Construction began in early 1984 with a limited budget,
since the couple decided to finance the house without a
mortgage. This required the Brittons to use intelligent
design practices, rather than relying on the use of
expensive new technologies.
The site is situated on a hill with an eight-degree slope
to the north. This enabled the Brittons to bury the north
wall of the house in fifteen feet of earth, which effectively
cuts a quarter of the potential heat loss through exterior
walls and directs the cold northerly winds over the roof.
To compensate for the lack of windows on the north
side of the house, clerestory windows were placed high
14
on the south side to provide ample daylight in the

interior rooms.
To reduce heating and artificial lighting requirements,
George incorporated passive solar design principles into the
house. During the heating season, large double-pane
windows and sliding glass doors on the south side allow for
maximum solar gain throughout the day while tile floors
and a Trombe wall (a dark colored concrete block inner wall
designed to store heat energy) radiate the stored heat at
I was willing to make some changes in

my home to make a difference.
night. Once the sun goes down, the Brittons use window
quilts to keep the heat inside and supplement the suns heat
with a stone fireplace.Recently added storm doors and door
sweeps also help to reduce heat loss. During the warmer
months, strategically positioned window overhangs block
the high summer sun and prevent overheating. Deciduous
trees on the south, east, and west sides also partially block
the summer sun to reduce cooling loads.
The walls of the Brittons house were constructed of eightinch concrete block, one-inch rigid foam board insulation,
and a five-inch outer stone wall.The stone is replaced with
When the house was planned, natural

gas service was unavailable, so the
house was supplied with electric
heating and cooling (air-source heat
pump) and electric hot water. In 1999,
after re-evaluating their energy costs,
the Brittons determined that using only
electricity was not the best strategy.
They began to replace some of the older, inefficient
electric appliances with propane models, including a
high-efficiency propane furnace, range, and dryer. They
also invested in a solar hot water heater, which provides
about 75% of household hot water. Together, these
investments have cut their electricity bill by nearly 50%,
which is impressive considering the couple now pay a
premium for electricity that is partially generated by
renewable energy.
In light of the success, the Brittons are still at it. George
has just completed an energy audit to find out about the
potential for even more savings. In hindsight, the Brittons
would have done a few things differently. According to
George, the cathedral ceiling should have been
constructed using 2 x 12 rafters to allow room for
additional insulation.The installation of a geothermal heat
pump, instead of an air-source unit, would have provided
more energy-efficient mechanical heating and cooling.
The Brittons cant imagine what their lives would be like
had they not built a passive solar house. As a folk singer
and songwriter, George was so inspired by the project that
he wrote a song about his solar home called Me and Old
Doc Sunshine. In the song, he sings,While my neighbors
heating bills go soaring to the sky / That good old sun will
keep me warm while Im just standing by. At 85 years
young, George continues to inspire the rest of us.
IMPACT
cedar siding and fiberglass insulation

above eight feet. Due to the limited
budget, the cathedral ceilings were
constructed with 2 x 6 rafters and
insulated with six inches of fiberglass
batt insulation.
Earth-bermed north wall
Daylighting (clerestory windows)
Passive solar heating (south-facing

double-pane windows and sliding
glass door, heat collecting Trombe
wall and tile floor)
Window quilts
Natural cooling (window overhangs

and shade trees)
Solar hot water heating system
Energy-efficient furnace, range, and

dryer
ENERGY SAVINGS: 20%

comparably sized house built
to minimum code standards
15
John Blackwell Pittsburgh, PA
s a longtime native of Pittsburghs North

Side, John Blackwell has experienced
some hard winters. For more than 22 years,
he has heated his 1,500 sq. ft. rowhouse with two
outdated gas space heaters and the kitchen
stove. Not surprisingly, the rooms in his 90-yearold, six-room house were cold and drafty
throughout the winter.
In October of 2000, Johns house was
weatherized and insulated, and a new highefficiency furnace was installed, thanks to
energy efficiency services provided by
Conservation Consultants, Inc. (CCI) and
Equitable Gas. Now the drafts are gone and his house is
warm and safe. When asked if he can feel the difference,
John said, Sure, 100 percent. No more heavy blankets
and no more sitting in the living room, cold.
No more heavy blankets and no more

sitting in the living room, cold.
CCI is a non-profit organization that provides essential energy
services and education to local residents through its Green
Neighborhood Initiative (GNI). Through a partnership with
Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, Equitable Gas, and
NorthSide Bank, CCI created a repair fund to enable
homeowners on a limited budget to repair leaky roofs, wiring
problems, or safety issues that prevented them from
receiving utility-provided weatherization services. John was
one of the first recipients of services from the fund.
Using a referral from Equitable Gas, CCI contacted John
to see if he would qualify for the GNI program. Once
approved, CCI performed a home energy audit, replacing
some incandescent lights with compact fluorescent
lights, testing the refrigerator for energy use, sealing
some electrical outlets with gaskets, and caulking major
leaks in the building envelope to reduce air leakage. CCI
16
also noted that Johns gas space heaters had broken

ceramic burners and defective controls, making the
heaters unsafe and inefficient.
Using the newly created repair fund, CCI was able to replace
the broken space heaters with a new high-efficiency
natural gas furnace (92% AFUE). For safety reasons, the
heating contractor also advised against using the kitchen
stove to heat the house. Thats no longer necessary, since
the new furnace heats the entire house exceptionally well.
Its much warmer in here than it was before. I dont have
to walk around all bundled up, reported John.
Two weeks after the energy audit by CCI, Equitable Gas
sent energy efficiency contractors to weatherize the
house under the Low-Income Usage Reduction Program
(LIURP). The contractors began by adding eight inches of
insulation to the attic, raising the R-value to 30, and
cellulose insulation was blown into the exterior wall
cavities to a level of R-14.
Focusing on the building envelope, the contractors
replaced two broken windows and an exterior door and
then sealed them properly with weatherstripping, caulk,
and door sweeps. Finally, the fireplaces were closed off
and sealed, since they were major sources of air leakage
and heat loss.You cant imagine what a gift it was to get
CCI is making additional improvements to Johns house

that will improve comfort in the summer, as well. CCI
recently determined that the roof was leaking and
made plans to replace it using the Repair Fund. The
new roof will incorporate a reflective silver-white
coating to avoid excess heat gain in the summer,
lowering cooling bills.
You cant imagine what a gift it was to

get a new furnace and then to have the
house weatherized too!
IMPACT
a new furnace and then to have the house weatherized

too! exclaimed John.

(weatherstripped and caulked
around doors and windows, sealed
fireplace chase)
Increased levels of insulation in attic

and exterior wall cavities
High-efficiency gas furnace
ENERGY SAVINGS: 35%

reduction in natural gas
consumption ($600
annually)
Now that another winter has gone by, John is content

knowing that his energy upgrades provided comfort even
on the coldest days. And although it is too soon to calculate
actual energy savings, the new high-efficiency furnace and
weatherization is expected to result in a 35% reduction in
natural gas consumption, saving $600 annually.
17
Michael and Tracey Sgrignoli Middletown, PA
hen Michael and Tracey Sgrignoli

were in the market for a new home
in 1998, they analyzed the costs of
moving into a larger house. It really wasnt
an option for us to consider a larger home
that was not rated highly efficient,concluded
Michael. After a thorough search, the couple
purchased a 2,160 sq. ft Comfort Home in
Middletown. The new home is more than
twice as large as the previous one but uses
roughly the same amount of energy.
The builder provided a package of energyefficient products, services, and the Comfort
Home energy guarantee, which ensures 20% to 30% savings
on heating and cooling costs compared to comparably
sized homes built to minimum code standards. These
energy savings are achieved by paying special attention
to details during the design and construction phases.
The Sgrignolis new house is twice as

large as their old one but uses roughly
the same amount of energy.
The architect, builder, and subcontractors worked
together to ensure built-in energy efficiency and comfort.
For example, higher levels of insulation were specified in
the attic (R-40), the exterior walls (R-21), and between the
unfinished basement and first floor (R-19). This enabled
the subcontractor to install a smaller Energy Star gas
furnace (92% AFUE). Likewise, with the increased thermal
performance of the building envelope, the use of a smaller,
highly efficient central air conditioner is sufficient for
summer cooling. To maximize the operational efficiency
of the heating and cooling systems, a programmable
thermostat was installed, which adjusts the temperature
based on the preferences of the homeowners and
indicates when the air filters require replacement.
18
Large south-facing windows were included in the house

design to provide passive solar heating in winter. Highperformance double-pane, vinyl-clad windows with lowemittance (low-e) coatings were selected because of their
high thermal resistance. Compared to single-pane
windows, which are generally the weakest thermal link
in the building envelope, the new windows save the
Sgrignolis approximately $200 each year in avoided
heating and cooling costs.
To reduce air leakage and maximize comfort, all
penetrations in the building envelope were air sealed
during the construction phase. This included sealing the
seams in the exterior sheathing, filling the gaps around
plumbing, heating, and electrical penetrations, sealing all
mechanical chases passing through unconditioned spaces,
and sealing air-handling ductwork.
Tests were then performed to ensure that the house
performed as expected. Blower door tests (which pressurize
and depressurize the house to measure air leakage) were
used to verify the tightness of the building envelope,
infrared thermography was performed to ensure that no
insulation gaps existed, smoke tracer tests were conducted
to check the air-tightness of the ductwork, and air flow
measurements were used to confirm the proper
performance of the HVAC system.
The temperature in the house is more

consistent and there are no cold spots.
providing a quality energy-efficient home, Comfort Home
offers a one year comfort guarantee and a three year
heating and cooling energy usage guarantee.
With a recent addition to the family, the Sgrignolis are
glad they moved into a larger house. And with combined
gas and electric bills adding up to just $109 per month,
they are very happy with their decision to buy an energyefficient home.
IMPACT
What did all of these energy efficiency improvements

achieve? According to Michael, The temperature in the
house is more consistent and there are no cold spots.
He added that with the high levels of insulation and highperformance windows the house tends to hold heat a
lot better in the winter and in the summer when it cools,
it stays cool. To demonstrate their commitment to
High levels of insulation in the attic,

exterior walls, and basement
Air-sealed air-handling ducts
Passive solar design (south-facing

double-paned, vinyl-clad windows
with low-e coatings)
Energy Star high-efficiency gas

furnace and central air conditioner
Programmable thermostat
Energy-efficient appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, self-cleaning gas

range with pilotless ignition, gas dryer)
ENERGY SAVINGS: 30%

comparably sized home
built to minimum code
standards ($390 annually)
19
Michael and Stacey Stepp Steelton, PA
ichael and Stacy Stepp and their two children

live just outside of Harrisburg in a 1,600 sq. ft.
three-bedroom ranch house. For the past eight
years, the Stepps heated the house with two portable
kerosene heaters, because the furnace was broken and
they couldnt afford to replace it. Recently, Stacey called
the Dauphin County Weatherization program for help in
replacing this dangerous and expensive system.
The county weatherization program approved the
Stepps request for assistance and visited the home to
perform an energy audit, including an evaluation of the
broken furnace. Our old furnace ran for hours and
sometimes didnt shut off. I couldnt sleep safe and
sound, explained Michael. The improperly vented
exhaust from the furnace also left the house covered
with black soot. With financing from the Weatherization
Assistance Program ( WAP), administered by the
Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs, the old
furnace was replaced with a smaller, more energyefficient oil unit.
Our old furnace ran for hours and

sometimes didnt shut off. I couldnt
sleep safe and sound.
The building envelope of the house was air sealed to
reduce air leakage and improve comfort. Michael and
Staceys house had a terrible draft throughout the year from
broken windows and numerous gaps around windows,
doors, electrical outlets, and plumbing penetrations. The
energy efficiency contractors were able to identify these
areas of air leakage by conducting a blower door test.They
repaired broken window panes, installed two new doublepane insulated windows, added interior storm windows,
sealed and weatherstripped around the doors and
windows, and caulked and applied insulating foam to all
other cracks and gaps that were found.
20
Adequate levels of fiberglass batt insulation were found

above the ceiling tiles and in the exterior wall cavities,
which provided good thermal protection once the
building envelope was properly air sealed. Inspection
showed, however, that the door between the house and
the unheated garage was improperly insulated. It was
replaced with an insulated wood door and a door sweep
was added to reduce air leakage.
In the interior of the house, the contractors concentrated
on ways to improve the energy efficiency of the Stepps
heating, cooling, and hot water systems. Rather than replace
the gas water heater, they chose a more cost-effective
approach of turning the water heater thermostat down to
120F, wrapping the water heater with an insulation jacket,
With financing from the Weatherization

Assistance Program, the old furnace
was replaced with a smaller, more
energy-efficient unit.
For the Stepps, the Weatherization Assistance Program
was a lifesaver during a tough time, especially
considering the extreme temperatures encountered
throughout the previous winter. Michael said he wished
they had called when the furnace first broke eight years
ago. Then he added, Im just thankful to be safe now.
Despite increasing energy prices, the Stepps energy bills
have dropped or remained the same as a result of the
energy efficiency services they received. More importantly,
Michael and Stacey can now sleep soundly knowing that
their children are safe.
IMPACT
and reducing hot water needs by installing faucet aerators

and a water-conserving showerhead. To further reduce air
leakage and improve heating and cooling efficiency, return
air-handling ducts to the furnace were added to equalize
the air pressure in the house, and the penetrations housing
window-mounted air conditioners were air sealed.

(caulked and weatherstripped
windows and doors, sealed around
window-mounted air conditioners
and other penetrations)
Air-sealed air-handling ducts
Energy-efficient oil furnace
Double-pane insulated windows,

storm windows, insulated wood
door with door sweep
Water heater set to 120F and

wrapped with insulating jacket
Water-conserving showerhead and

faucet aerators
ENERGY SAVINGS: 10%

lower energy costs despite
higher energy prices
21
Todd and Shayne Garcia-Bish Prospect, PA
hen the members of Camp

Lutherlyn in western Pennsylvania
needed someone to develop a
Sustainable Lifestyle Program, Todd GarciaBish answered their prayers. I felt called to
teach others how to take care of what God
created, said Todd. This is not so much a
job as a way of life, he explained. As part of
his new position, Todd began to plan Terra
Dei Homestead, a residence and demonstration house designed to promote
environmental sustainability through
resource conservation and energy efficiency.
Two hundred and fifty straw bales were
stacked to form the east, west, and north walls of the
house. The straw bales provide superior insulation
performance (R-50) and are safely sealed between plaster
and stucco, which sharply limits air leakage while
providing excellent fire resistance and protecting the
bales from moisture and pests. Straw also insulates the
floor and blown cellulose (R-40) insulates the attic.
The high levels of insulation provided by the straw bale
walls, combined with the houses passive solar design,
minimize the need for mechanical heating and cooling.
The south side of the house features175 sq. ft. of doublepaned, low-e windows to provide passive solar heating
in the winter. In the interior of the house, Todd chose to
cover the floor with tiles made from recycled glass. The
tiles, along with a brick wall in the sunspace, act as thermal
mass, collecting and storing solar energy during the day
and releasing it as heat at night. According to Todd,On a
clear day, the house is solely heated by the sun for eight
hours, even if temperatures are below freezing. Insulated
reflective blinds are lowered once the sun goes down to
help retain heat within the house.
During cloudy winter days, passive solar heating is
augmented with a Finnish masonry heater. Since the
house is well insulated and the fireplace is highly efficient,
22
Straw bale walls provide superior

insulation performance.
a fire that burns for just two hours will heat the house for
twelve hours. In the summer, Todd and Shayne simply
open the passive cooling doors located below the southfacing windows to let the natural breeze cool the house,
eliminating the need for an air conditioner.
As a result of the passive solar design of the house and
other energy-efficient choices, the Garcia-Bishs electric
bill averages a mere $38 per month. Most of the lighting
fixtures contain compact fluorescent bulbs, which use
75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs. Major
appliances include an energy-efficient refrigerator and a
front-loading washing machine, both of which are Energy
Star models. Some appliances at Terra Dei Homestead run
on propane, including an electric ignition stove, a highefficiency furnace, and an instantaneous water heater.
These appliances save energy by design. For example, the
instantaneous hot water heater heats water only when
needed, rather than storing the heated water in a tank.
This eliminates standby losses and helps to keep the gas
bill under $10 per month.
On a clear day, the house is solely

heated by the sun for eight hours, even if
temperatures are below freezing.
Many recycled materials were incorporated into the
construction of the1,300 sq. ft., one-bedroom ranch
house. Polystyrene insulation board manufactured with
recycled content was placed along the exterior of the
foundation footer and extending out horizontally from
the base of the footer. This allowed for a shallower
footing, which required less concrete. The roof was
salvaged from unused cabins and then placed on a post
and beam frame. The living room and bedroom are
covered with carpeting made from recycled plastic soda
bottles and the padding underneath is made from
recycled tires. Cabinets were made on-site without the
use of laminates, and the paint used in the house was
made from recycled materials, minimizing the
outgassing of volatile organic compounds into the air.
Together, these features created a healthier indoor
environment. The indoor air quality at Terra Dei is very
high because of the materials chosen, explained Todd.
IMPACT
Todd has employed several water conservation

technologies into the design of the homestead to reduce
energy and water usage. A water-conserving showerhead
reduces the use of water and the propane used to heat
water for showering. In addition, the use of a waterless
composting toilet cuts water usage by 33%. These toilets
are becoming increasingly common because they are
odorless and sanitary, as well as ecologically sound. A
graywater recycling system was designed to reuse
wastewater from the sinks, shower, and washing machine
for watering the garden and indoor plants.
Straw bale exterior walls
Passive solar heating (south-facing

double-paned, low-e windows with
insulated reflective blinds, tile and
brick collect and store solar energy)
Natural ventilation (passive cooling

doors)
Energy-efficient Finnish masonry

heater
Instantaneous hot water heater,

water-conserving showerhead
Energy Star refrigerator and frontloading washing machine
ENERGY SAVINGS: 70%

comparably sized house built
to minimum code standards
The benefits the Garcia-Bishs receive from living in an

energy-efficient home go well beyond the obvious
monetary savings.The major benefit that we receive from
Terra Dei Homestead is the piece of mind in knowing that
we are making a positive difference in our world, said
Todd. With more than 1,000 visitors each year, the couple
is changing the way people think about the use of natural
resources and the benefits of energy-efficient design, one
person at a time.
23
Section 2
Energy Efficiency Basics:
Tips, Techniques, and Products
Home Energy Audit
home energy audit is an excellent way to assess

your current household energy usage and
determine the best options for increasing the
energy efficiency of your home. Whether you choose to
follow simple do-it-yourself steps or hire a professional
with sophisticated equipment, a home energy audit will
pinpoint where your house is wasting energy and
evaluate the efficiency of heating, cooling, hot water, and
lighting systems.
Do-It-Yourself Energy Audits

The first step in a do-it-yourself energy audit is to identify
air leakage sites, which in extreme cases may be felt as
drafts. On a windy day, do a walk-through of your house
while carrying a smoke pencil and watch for places where
the smoke wavers horizontally, indicating areas of air
infiltration. Note the location of any cracks, holes, or other
sources of air leakage to locate and prioritize where the
house requires air sealing. Pay special attention to the
most common air leakage sites: along the baseboard and
edge of flooring, junctures at the wall and ceiling, band
joists and sill plates, electrical outlets and switches, gaps
around plumbing penetrations, chases containing
ductwork and plumbing that travel through
unconditioned spaces, chimneys, attic access hatches, and
window and door frames (see Building Envelope section).
You should also record the type and amount of insulation
found throughout the house to identify additional energy
savings opportunities (see Insulation section). Dont forget
26
to check for insulation around the hot water tank, ductwork,

and hot water pipes.
You can find more information on conducting your own
home energy audit from the following sources:
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Clearinghouse (EREC)
(800) DOE-EREC (363-3732)
www.eren.doe.gov/consumerinfo/
Home Energy Saver (Lawrence Berkeley National

Laboratory)
HomeEnergySaver.lbl.gov
The free Energy Advisor on-line program allows you
to calculate your homes energy usage and identify
detailed energy savings opportunities.
Professional Energy Audits

For a more detailed and precise assessment of home energy
savings opportunities, contact a local professional energy
auditor. A comprehensive energy audit will cost $200 to
$500, depending on the level of detail, and will usually pay
for itself within a year or two through energy savings. An
energy auditor will use sophisticated equipment to
measure energy performance, such as a blower door, duct
blaster, infrared camera, infrared thermometer, and furnace
efficiency meter. This equipment will accurately identify
problem areas of air leakage, inadequate insulation,
excessive moisture, inefficient heating and cooling systems,
and poor air quality, which often cannot be detected by a
Home Energy Audit
visual inspection alone.The energy auditor will then suggest

ways to rectify these problems, allowing you to increase
the comfort of your home while reducing energy bills.
Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)

1-760-806-3448
www.natresnet.org/dir/raters/pennsylvania.htm
National Home Energy & Resources Organization

1-888-876-9445
www.national-hero.com
Building Performance Contractors Association (BPCA)

www.home-performance.org/bpca/access.htm#PA
Finding an Energy Auditor

For homeowners and renters with a limited income, contact
your local utility or community energy organization (listed
in the Financing section) to see if you qualify for a subsidized
home energy audit through the Low-Income Usage
Reduction Program (LIURP). Otherwise, ask the local
weatherization office to refer you to a local energy auditor,
or search one of the following national networks of certified
energy auditors:
Also, check the local yellow pages under the category

Energy Conservation or Insulation. Once you have located
an energy auditor in your area, ask about their previous
experience and check references.
27
Building Envelope
ach year, an average house wastes up to 30% of

energy used for heating and cooling as air moves
through gaps, penetrations, and cracks in the exterior
shell of the house, commonly referred to as the building
envelope. Air leakage in a poorly air-sealed house may be
equivalent to leaving a window wide open 24 hours a day.
Energy loss due to air leakage can account for up to 50% of
heating loads and a significant portion of cooling loads.
Reducing energy loss by properly air sealing the building
envelope offers one of the greatest opportunities for lowcost energy savings and improved comfort.
Air Sealing Priorities

It is best to focus on air sealing the attic first.
The attic door, hatch or pull down stairs, and
attic knee wall doors (in finished attics) are
prime air leakage culprits.Chases for duct work
and plumbing that pass through unconditioned spaces and recessed lighting fixtures are
also key sites of air leakage between the interior of the house and the attic.
In the walls, air leakage primarily occurs at the
top and bottom plates and through the rough
openings (hidden by drywall and casings)
around windows and doors. Air leakage is also
common at the rim joist (between the foundation and the first floor) and the band joist
(between floors in multistory houses). In the
28
floor, major air leakage sites include electrical wiring and

plumbing penetrations and around tub and shower drains.
In order to determine where you are losing heating and
cooling dollars due to air leakage, begin with an energy
audit of your house (see Energy Audit section). Conducting
an energy audit will enable you to prioritize energy
efficiency improvement projects.
Always start with the biggest gaps when air sealing (from
chases that a person could crawl through to holes that a
Air Leakage Sources

Fans and Vents 4%
Electric Outlets 2%
Windows 10%
Floors, Walls, and
Ceiling 31%
Doors 11%
Plumbing
Penetrations 13%
Ducts 15%
Fireplace 14%
Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 1999.
Building Envelope
Air seal around all plumbing and wiring penetrations

in walls, floors, and ceilings using expanding foam
or caulk.
Remove recessed lighting fixtures and replace with

surface-mounted fixtures after air sealing the former
penetration in the drywall. If installing new recessed
fixtures, use only UL-approved airtight, IC-rated lighting
fixtures that meet ASTM E283 requirements.
Air seal any exterior penetrations, such as for cable and

electric service lines, phone service lines, or lighting
fixtures using caulk or expanding foam.
Caulk around window and doorframes, and

weatherstrip around windows and doors. Install door
sweeps and consider installing storm windows over
single-pane windows.
Close fireplace dampers when not in use, and air seal

around all chimney penetrations. Use sheet metal and
high-temperature (4500 F), fire-rated caulk.
Air seal around the hot water heater and furnace flues.
Use UL-approved metal collar and high-temperature
(4500 F), fire-rated caulk.
Air seal gaps around all exhaust fans and recessed light
fixtures using caulk.
Attic Knee Wall

Attic
living
space
Seal
Hardboard
Seal
Desired
ventilation
Knee wall
Attic space
Seal all edges of rigid
foam insulation
Seal
outlet
box to
drywall
Unwanted
air leakage
Attic Ventilation
Source: Southface Energy Institute
mouse could crawl through) and work your way down to

the smallest cracks and seams.
Home Improvement Opportunities
Plug any large gaps in the attic floor, attic knee walls,
and basement with rigid foam board insulation and/
or expanding foam insulation.
Seal electrical switch and outlet boxes to drywall using

caulk, or install foam rubber gaskets behind outlet and
switch plates.
Air seal and insulate the access door or hatch to the attic.
In finished attics, air seal and insulate any knee wall doors
that lead into unconditioned portions of the attic.
Seal light fixture boxes to drywall using caulk.
Air seal kitchen and bathroom ventilation fans to

drywall using caulk.
Caulk along the baseboard and the edge of flooring

and where the ceiling meets the wall.
Air seal and insulate all air-handling ducts in

unconditioned spaces (typically in the attic or
basement). Use mastic (a non-toxic paste), rather than
duct tape, to seal ductwork.
Easiest Achieved During Construction
Air seal all duct boots to drywall or floor using caulk

or mastic.
Air seal seams at the sill plate and foundation, rim joist
and subfloor, bottom plate and subfloor, band joist and
top plate, and band joist and subfloor using caulk (or a
sill gasket between the sill plate and foundation and
the bottom plate and subfloor).
29
Building Envelope
Air seal all penetrations through the top and bottom

plates of exterior walls. Also, air seal the top and bottom
plates of partition walls that intersect with
unconditioned spaces, such as the attic and the
basement. Air seal any penetrations through the end
stud of partition walls that intersect with exterior walls.
When installing drywall on exterior walls, air seal
seams between the drywall and framing around the
perimeter of the wall by installing a continuous
rubber gasket behind the drywall, or applying a
continuous bead of caulk. Dont forget to install a
gasket or caulk around rough openings for windows
and doors, and air seal between the drywall and
framing at the end stud of partition walls that
intersect with exterior walls.
Air seal around rough openings for doors and windows

using backer rod and caulk or low-expansion foam.
Air seal all electrical, plumbing, and HVAC penetrations

and chases that move through unconditioned spaces.
Air seal dropped-soffit cabinets and shower ceilings

using sheet material (plywood, sheet metal, or rigid
foam insulation board) and caulk or expanding foam.
Once sealed, insulate.
Insulate and air seal behind bathtubs and showers
located against exterior walls. Air seal drain penetrations

using rigid foam board insulation and expanding foam.
Air Sealing Products and Applications

Several products have been designed to reduce air leakage.
Use the following information as a guide for selecting the most
appropriate products for your energy efficiency projects. Most
home improvement stores carry a wide selection of air-sealing
products. Specialty air-sealing products are available from the
Energy Federation Incorporated, (800) 876-0660, www.efi.org.
CaulkCaulk is best for cracks and gaps less than onehalf inch wide. Generally, more expensive silicone caulks
will adhere better and last longer.
Backer RodThis flexible foam material is used to provide
a backing for wide or deep cracks to be sealed with caulk.
Expanding FoamThis is used to fill larger cracks and
gaps up to two inches wide. Expanding foam is very sticky,
so wear gloves. Do NOT use near flammable applications,
such as flue vents. A high-temperature, fire-rated caulk is
recommended for these applications. Choose products
that are marketed as safe for the ozone (those
manufactured using low levels of HCFCs).
Rigid and Flexible Ducts

rigid duct
flexible duct
Register
Use wide straps to support flex duct
spaced at 5 foot intervals
Strap inner liner and
outer insulation
Seal boots to sheet goods (drywall, subfloor)

with caulk, mastic or spray foam
Seal
joints
in boots
Seal metal or flex to boot or elbow with mastic
Mastic
boot seams
Mastic before
attaching flex
duct
Run lines straight

using metal elbows at
bends and corners
Never puncture inner
liner. If repair is needed,
install a coupling and
seal properly
30
Building Envelope
Rope CaulkThis is great for temporarily sealing window

assemblies during the heating season.
Walls and Band Joist

Attic
ventilation
WeatherstrippingWeatherstripping materials are a

more permanent solution used to reduce air leakage
around moving parts of windows and doors.
Weatherstripping comes in both compression type (uses
foam to create seal) or V-strip (metal or vinyl sealed to the
edge around windows and doors, which is longer lasting).
Rafter
baffle
Caulk drywall to
top and bottom
plates
Caulk bottom plate
to subfloor
Soffit vent
Door SweepsDoor sweeps are installed on the bottom

of exterior doors to prevent heat loss and cold drafts. Door
sweeps with a felt strip or plastic bristles work best.
Caulk band joist

to subfloor and plates
Caulk bottom plate

to subfloor
Tape or
caulk exterior
sheathing
seams
Sill gasket or
double-bead of caulk
Sheathing
OK to extend
sheathing
below sill plate
Chases and Dropped Soffits

Seal and insulate
dropped soffit
Seal
chases
Seal HVAC
penetrations
Seal electrical
penetrations
Seal
bottom
plate
Seal dropped soffit ceilings and utility chases
GasketsGaskets are used as a means of air sealing

drywall to exterior framing and air sealing the joints
between sill plates and the foundation and bottom plates
and the subfloor.
Indoor Air Quality

An air-sealed house with proper controlled ventilation
provides superior indoor air quality compared to a drafty
house with uncontrolled ventilation. Many sources of
indoor air pollution may be found in todays homes at
unacceptably high levels, including radon, formaldehyde,
tobacco smoke, asbestos, lead, carbon monoxide (from
ranges, fireplaces, and heating systems), and volatile
organic compounds used in building materials and
furnishings. Exposure to these pollutants may lead to
serious health problems.
Air quality problems in homes and apartments can be
resolved through three steps: (1) eliminate or control the
sources of pollution; (2) increase ventilation through natural
and mechanical means; and (3) install air cleaning devices.
To learn more about indoor air quality, contact the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), at (703) 356-4020,
or visit www.epa.gov/iaq/homes.html.
Air sealing prevents uncontrolled air movement through
the building envelope, which can transport moisture and
pollutants into the interior of a home. A leaky building
31
Building Envelope Checklist:
Building Envelope
Have an energy audit of your home

performed to identify air leakage sites.
Seal air leaks in the attic and basement

with expanding foam and rigid foam
board insulation. Air seal and insulate
attic door/hatch.
Air seal and insulate all air-handling

ducts in unconditioned spaces.
Air seal all plumbing and electrical

penetrations in the building
envelope.
Caulk around window and door

frames and weatherstrip windows
and doors.
ENERGY SAVINGS: 30% or more
envelope will result in overly dry interior air in the winter

and moist interior air in the summer, reducing comfort
32
significantly. Proper air sealing and adequate mechanical

ventilation will help maintain interior humidity levels at a
healthy median (between 40% and 60% relative humidity).
High humidity can lead to increased incidence of mold,
mildew, dust mites, bacteria, and other biological
contaminants, while low humidity can result in increased
incidence of respiratory infections and discomfort.
Air sealing does not make a house airtight; cracks and
seams will still remain in even very tightly sealed houses.
However, well air-sealed houses should have mechanical
ventilation to control moisture and maintain optimal air
quality. Energy Star guidelines require mechanical
ventilation systems that can provide a minimum of 15
cubic feet per minute (CFM) of ventilation per person.
Homes with simple bathroom and kitchen exhaust fan
systems may be able to provide this level of ventilation.
Other standard options include central exhaust systems
and return make-up air systems. Heat recovery ventilation
systems are cost effective for well air-sealed homes. These
systems deliver fresh air to the interior of the home
through the air-handler system after it is preheated by
exhaust air using a heat exchanger.
Insulation
roperly insulating is one of the most cost-effective

ways to reduce your heating and cooling needs
while increasing the comfort of your home. A
strategic investment of a few hundred dollars can cut your
energy bills by up to 30%, eliminate uncomfortable cold
spots in rooms, and increase your homes resale value.
To determine the potential benefits of adding insulation to
your home, check insulation levels throughout the house, or
hire a professional to conduct an energy audit. Determining
existing insulation levels will show where insulation should
be added to maximize energy savings and improve comfort.
R-Value
Insulation performance is measured by the ability to resist
heat flow, which is described as a materials R-value. The
higher the R-value, the greater a materials insulating value.
R-value is determined by the type and thickness of
insulation, which makes it easy to assess the thermal
performance of your houses existing insulation.
sure the main power source serving the circuit has been
turned off, remove the cover plates and inspect with a
flashlight. To ensure that the power is off, plug a light into
the outlet first to check.
An energy audit will determine the R-value of insulation in
given areas of the building envelope. Once the R-value of
insulation throughout the house is calculated, compare
these values to recommended R-values to determine how
much additional insulation is needed in different areas to
achieve optimal energy efficiency and comfort.
Choosing the Right Insulation

Before visiting a home improvement store, measure the
square footage of the areas you want to insulate, calculate
the distance between studs and joists, and consider the
various insulation materials from which to choose. The
information below will help guide the selection of the most
appropriate type of insulation for different applications.
Assessing Your Insulation
CelluloseCellulose insulation is ideal for attics and exterior

walls. Made of fire-resistant recycled newspaper, cellulose
insulation comes as loose-fill and is applied dry or wet.
Beginning with an energy audit, determine how much

insulation is already in the attic, ceilings, exterior walls, floors,
and basement or crawl space. Determine the type of
insulation and measure its thickness. For exterior walls,
check the insulation levels at electrical outlets. After making
FiberglassFiberglass insulation is ideal for walls, attics,

cathedral ceilings, floors above crawl spaces or garages,
rim joists, and band joists. Fiberglass insulation comes in
batts, rolls, and loose-fill. (Note, fiberglass can irritate skin
33
Insulation
Beadboard is a foam board insulation

that does not contain any ozonedepleting HCFCs.
Thermal Performance of Insulation

TYPE
Fiberglass
Batts
Loose-Fill
Spray-Applied
Cellulose
Loose-Fill
Spray-Applied
Foam Boards
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS or Beadboard)
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS or Blueboard)
Polyisocyanurate/Polyurethane
R-VALUE PER INCH

3.14.3
2.53.7
3.73.9
3.13.7
2.93.5
3.94.4
5.0
5.67.01
Note: 1. R-7. 1 to R-8.7 with foil facing.

Book, 2001.
Soffit dam
Rafter baffle
Soffit vent
and lungs, so wear a hat, gloves, long-sleeved shirt and

pants, and a respirator or dust mask during installation).
Rock woolRock wool insulation is ideal for the same
applications as fiberglass. Made from basaltic rock or steel
mill waste materials, rock wool insulation comes in batts,
rolls, and loose-fill.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS or beadboard)
Beadboard insulation is used for applications in confined
spaces and often for below-grade exterior applications.
34
PolyisocyanuratePolyisocyanurate
insulation is used in confined spaces
requiring high insulation value, such as
cathedral ceilings with rafters smaller
than 2 x 12. Polyisocyanurate is a rigid
foam board insulation that contains
ozone-depleting HCFCs.
Insulation Priorities
Attic Insulation
Blown
insulation
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS or blueboard)This type of foam board

insulation is ideal for exterior walls to
increase insulation value. Extruded
polystyrene foam board insulation
contains ozone-depleting HCFCs.
Start with the most easily accessible areas, such as an

unfinished attic or basement, which can be upgraded
relatively inexpensively. Then, if your budget permits,
progress to areas that are more difficult to access, such as
exterior walls. You will most likely have to hire a contractor
to upgrade insulation in exterior walls, but it may be cost
effective in the long run. Follow the suggestions listed
below when planning insulation projects. Additional
detailed information is available from the U.S. Department
of Energys Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, at www.eren.doe.gov/consumerinfo/wx.html and
www.eren.doe.gov/buildings/wthr_insulating.html. The
Southface Energy Institute also provides fact sheets on
various insulation applications, at www.southface.org.
AtticAdding insulation to an unfinished attic is easy and
cost effective.
Always seal air leaks before adding insulation (see

Building Envelope section).
For unfinished attics, first fill the cavities between

Insulation
1
2
Harrisburg
Philadelphia
Pittsburgh
R-Value Recommendations for Pennsylvania

HEATING SYSTEM
CLIMATE ZONE
ATTIC
CATHEDRAL
CEILING
1
2
1
2
R-49
R-49
R-49
R-49
R-38
R-38
R-60
R-38
Natural Gas, Fuel

Oil, Heat Pump
Electric Furnace/
Electric Resistance
EXTERIOR
WALLS
FLOORS
BASEMENT
(INTERIOR)
R-18
R-18
R-28
R-22
R-25
R-25
R-25
R-25
R-11
R-11
R-19
R-19
Note: Recommendations based on cost-effective insulation levels; 1. Over unheated spaces.

Attic Pull-Down Stairs and Hatch

Pull-down attic staircase
Cover box pushes up and
out of the way for access
Scuttle Hole Cover
Rigid insulation box

forms lid for pull-down
attic staircase
Hatch lid pushes up and

out of the way for access
Air seal
gasket
Seal stairs
frame gap
with caulk
or foam
Air seal
gasket
Panel
35
Insulation
the joists with batts or loose-fill insulation. If using

faced batt insulation, install face down toward the
conditioned side of the ceilingthe warm-inwinter side.
If joist cavities are completely filled, add additional

unfaced insulation perpendicular to the joists. Using
Underfloor Insulation
Staves cut from

rigid board insulation
can rest on lip of
I-beam and
support insulation
Tiger claws
support insulation
engineered I-beams
require a longer "claw"
unfaced insulation avoids trapping moisture, which can

damage insulation.
Air seal and then insulate the attic hatch, door, or pulldown stairs using batt or rigid insulation.
Do not place insulation against or cover recessed lights

(unless IC-rated), exhaust flues, vents, or chimneys. Install
blocking using metal flashing to maintain clearance
(typically at least three inches).
For finished attics, insulate knee walls with batt or loosefill insulation, and insulate between roof rafters with
batts and/or foam board insulation. When insulating
between rafters, install rafter baffels to ensure at least
two inches of ventilation space between the insulation
and the roof decking to provide adequate ventilation
and prevent moisture damage to insulation, as required
by local codes.
Basement and Crawl SpaceThese areas may account

for as much as 25% of total home heat loss if not properly
insulated.
Crawlspace Insulation Options

Exterior
foam
option for
low-termite areas
Insulation batt
for band joist
Interior
foam
Termite shield
Stucco covering
or other protective
finish over rigid
insulation
1 to 2 inch
extruded
polystyrene
Interior
batt
R-11 to
R-19 batt
Sealed 6 mil polyethylene
4-inch termite inspection strip
36
Insulation
Whether you have a basement or a crawl space, begin

by sealing any air leaks in the rim joist (outside edge of
first-floor framing), and air seal around any penetrations
in basement walls.
Basement Wall Insulation

Stud wall with batts
1x2 furring strips

with 2 layers of foam
sheathing
Drywall
to meet fire code
Wall Insulation
Prefer
face stapled
insulation batt
Cut out
batt to
fit snugly
around
wall
outlet
Back of batt
split around
wire
Unfaced
insulation
D
CE
FA
D
CE
FA
D
CE
FA
D
CE
FA
N
U
2 Stud
energy corner
with drywall clips
Subfloor
Caulk bottom plate
or use sill gasket
Floor joist
Insulate and air seal
band joist area
between floors
Adhesive or
caulk
For an unheated basement or crawl space, insulate

between the floor joists of the floor above with R-25
fiberglass batts (place a 6-mil polyethylene vapor
barrier on the floor of the crawl space and hold in place
with bricks). An alternate option is to insulate basement
or crawl space walls with batt or rigid insulation.
To insulate a heated basement, frame a 2 x 4 or 2 x 6

stud wall on the interior side of the existing basement
wall, and insulate between the studs with batt
insulation. An alternate option is to attach 1 x 2 firing
strips to the basement wall and fasten multiple sheets
of foam board insulation to the strips. Be sure to tape
the seams between insulation boards to insure a
continuous vapor retarder.
Exterior WallsThough difficult to access in existing

houses, exterior walls make up the largest portion of the
building envelope and contribute significantly to heat loss
in winter and heat gain in summer.
Side stapled
insulation batt
(stapled no
more than 1/4"
from edge)
For existing walls, hire an insulation contractor

to blow in loose-fill insulation.
When building a new addition or

remodeling, increase insulation in accessible
wall cavities by adding loose-fill insulation
or upgrading with higher R-value batt
insulation (2 x 4 walls can accept R-13 or R15 batts). Be sure not to compress batt
insulation by wedging behind wiring or side
stapling, which will reduce R-value. Cut
openings in batts to fit around plumbing
and wiring. When replacing exterior siding,
consider adding foam board insulation to
the exterior sheathing of the wall to increase
whole-wall R-value.
Moisture Control and Ventilation

Moisture accumulates inside a house through
air leakage and when inhabitants take a shower,
cook, wash clothes, and breathe. If moisture is
not properly controlled it can damage insulation,
encourage the growth of mold and mildew, and
37
potentially lead to deterioration of building materials. To

avoid these problems and create a healthy indoor
environment, make sure your house is properly air sealed
and has adequate controlled ventilation and properly
installed vapor barriers.
Adequate controlled ventilation is important for limiting
moisture build-up and maintaining healthy indoor air
quality, as well as preventing the potential deterioration
of building materials and insulation due to moisture
damage. Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to
remove moisture created by showering and cooking.
Ensure adequate ventilation in the attic through the
installation of a combination of continuous vents at the
soffits and ridge of the roof. For more information, consult
a local energy auditor, or visit the Home Ventilating
Institute, at www.hvi.org.
Properly air sealing the building envelope is much more
important for controlling moisture than the installation of
vapor barriers. In certain instances, vapor barriers may retard
drying within the building envelope, which can lead to the
deterioration of building materials. A leading building
scientist has recently advised against installing a
38
Insulation Checklist:
Insulation
Increase attic insulation to R-49. Air

seal and insulate the attic hatch, door,
or pull-down stairs.
Insulate floors over unheated spaces

(basement or crawl space) to R-25
(add a vapor barrier to the floor of
crawl space).
Upgrade insulation in exterior walls to

R-19 (insulation levels of R-22 to R-28
are recommended for houses with
electric resistance heating).
ENERGY SAVINGS: Up to 30%
polyethylene vapor barrier on the interior of any building

assembly in climates such as Pennsylvanias. Installation of
polyethylene vapor barriers is recommended for climates
with 8,000 heating degree days or greater. If a vapor barrier
is installed, it should be placed on the warm-in-winter side
of the building envelope.
Windows
indows provide natural daylight, ventilation for

cooling, and solar gain for heating. Unfortunately,
windows are also the weakest thermal link in the
building envelope.Typically, windows account for 15% to 40%
of heat loss in the winter and up to 75% of heat gain during
the summer, adding significantly to heating and cooling bills.
Installing high-performance windows can reduce energy
usage for heating and cooling by 30% or more.
Windows lose heat or gain unwanted heat in four ways: (1)
air infiltration through cracks and gaps in the window
assembly; (2) convection (circulation of heated air in and
around the window assembly); (3) radiation; and (4)
conduction (heat transfer through physical contact of
molecules with the window glazing and window frame).
High-performance windows allow optimal levels of light
into a house while reducing heat loss in the winter and
preventing excess heat gain in the summer.
Low-Cost Cold Weather Solutions

To reduce heat loss, first air seal around window frames and
weatherize at the sash and any other moveable parts of
the window.Temporary plastic films can be installed on the
inside of the frame of any window that remains cold or
drafty and will remain closed throughout the heating
season. When installed on poorly performing windows,
these films will reduce heat loss by 25% to 40% and sharply
reduce drafts, for an investment of about $0.20/sq. ft to
$0.40/sq. ft. For a more permanent solution that provides
better energy performance, consider installing interior or
exterior storm windows with a low-emittance (low-e)
coatinga thin transparent coating that reflects infrared
heat radiation back into the room, reducing heat loss. At a
cost of about $7.50/sq. ft. to $12.50/sq. ft., storm windows
will reduce annual heat loss through the window by 25%
to 50%, depending on air sealing.
Strategies for Existing Windows
Insulating shades, curtains, drapes, and window quilts will

also reduce heat loss through windows during cold
weather. It is good practice to open shades and curtains
on south-facing windows each winter morning to let in
heat and shut them at dusk to retain solar gain. Planting
evergreen trees on the north side of a house to block
northerly winds will also help reduce air infiltration and
heat loss.
Many homeowners may not be ready to replace windows,

and renters are often unable to convince their landlords to
upgrade. Fortunately, there are a number of low-tech
options available that will increase the energy performance
of existing windows.
Low-Cost Warm Weather Solutions

During the cooling season, unwanted solar gain occurs
when solar radiation passes through windows and the solar
energy contained is stored inside the house as heat. White
You can improve the energy performance of existing

windows with low-cost, low-tech measures or choose to
invest in new high-performance windows that employ the
latest technological advances.
39
Windows
window shades, mini-blinds, or curtains should be closed

on the south and west sides of the house during the day
to reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain. Tightly woven
insect screens or bamboo shades hung on the outside of a
window will prevent 60% to 80% of solar radiation from
entering a home. When designing a new house or
remodeling an existing one, incorporate properly sized
window overhangs or awnings to block windows from the
high summer sun, and plant deciduous trees on the south,
east, and west sides to provide valuable shade during the
hotter months.
addition, high-performance windows reduce condensation

on the inside of windowpanes and protect furniture from
fading. If you expect to replace heating or cooling systems
in the near future, high-performance windows will reduce
heating and cooling loads and enable the purchase of a
smaller and less expensive system.
Efficiency Criteria
New Windows
Use the energy performance criteria provided by the National

Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to compare and select
the appropriate windows for your house and climate. The
window features ultimately chosen (frame, glazing, coatings,
etc.) will determine overall energy performance.
If you are building a new home or are ready to replace aging

windows, it makes sense to purchase high-performance
windows designed specifically for your climate. The extra
money spent on better energy performance will be
recouped through lower heating and cooling bills,
increased comfort, and improved natural light quality. In
Most windows today carry the NFRC label, which enables

comparison of the energy performance of different
windows. The criteria that the NFRC uses are U-factor (or Uvalue), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible light
transmittance (VT), and air leakage (AL).
Comparing Window Performance in Pittsburgh

WINDOW 1
Single Glazing
Clear Glass
Aluminum Frame
WINDOW 1
WINDOW 2
Double Glazing
Low-e Coating (high solar gain)
Wood, Vinyl, Clad, or
Hybrid/Composite Frame
PROPERTIES
U-Factor = 1.25
SHGC = 0.76
VT = 0.74
WINDOW 2
Heating
Heating
$$$$$$
Heating
$$$$
Cooling
Cooling
$
0
100
PROPERTIES
U-Factor = 0.36
SHGC = 0.52
VT = 0.53
$
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
100
Annual Home Energy Costs (Dollars)
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
Annual Home Energy Costs (Dollars)
Note: Assumes a typical 2,000 sq. ft. house with 300 sq. ft. of glazing (15% of floor area).
Source: Efficient Windows Collaborative (www.efficientwindows.org), 2001.
40
Windows
NFRC Label
a SHGC of 0.45 allows 45% of incident solar radiation through.

Windows with a high SHGC (above 0.60) are designed for
colder climates to maximize passive solar heat gain.
Visible light transmittance is a measure of the amount of
visible light that passes through a window. A higher VT will
allow higher levels of natural daylight to be transmitted
into the home and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
The resistance of a window to air leakage (air tightness)
can be determined by the air leakage rating (AL), which is
expressed in cubic feet of air passing through a square
foot of window area. The best windows have air leakage
rates as low as 0.01 cubic feet per minute per square foot
(cfm/sq. ft.) while average windows have leakage rates of
0.37cfm/sq. ft. Select windows with an air leakage rate of
0.30 cfm/sq. ft. or less.
U-factor is a measure of the rate of heat loss through a square

foot of window area per hour. A lower U-factor indicates a
better overall insulating value for the window. Highperformance windows have a U-factor of 0.35 or below.
SHGC describes the fraction of incident solar radiation that
is transmitted through a window. For example, a window with
As with many other products on the market, windows,

doors, and skylights may also have the Energy Star label,
indicating that they have met energy performance
standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy. In
Pennsylvania (northern and central climate zones), windows
that qualify for the Energy Star label must have a U-factor
of 0.35 to 0.40 or less and a SHGC of 0.55 or less (except for
northern climate zone).
Thermal Performance of Windows

WINDOW TYPE
Single-Pane
Double-Pane
Double-Pane, Low-e, Gas-filled
Double-Pane, Spectrally Selective Low-e, Gas-filled
Triple-Pane
Triple-Pane, 2 Low-e, Gas-filled
U-FACTOR
0.931.23
0.490.73
0.340.42
0.32
0.380.60
0.24
SHGC
0.690.84
0.620.76
0.480.58
0.35
0.540.68
0.40
Note: U-Factor ranges represent differences in window material and design; aluminum-framed windows are on the high end of the
range while wood and vinyl-framed windows are on the low end of the range.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Building Technology, BTS Core Data Book, 2001.
41
Windows
Features and Technologies

Window technology has improved substantially in recent
years, resulting in dramatic improvement in window energy
performance.
Climate Zone Map
Double and triple glazing that is optimally spaced and filled

with low-conductivity gasses (argon or krypton) is now
used to reduce the transfer of heat through windows. The
best-performing windows use three layers of glazing with
spaces filled with argon or krypton gas. Lowemittance (low-e) coatings have been
developed that dramatically reduce heat loss
while allowing various levels of solar gain.
For most Pennsylvania homes, a window with a
moderate solar heat gain coefficient and low-e
glazing will maximize energy performance by
reducing summer overheating while still
allowing for suitable solar heat gain in the
winter. For homes with significant air
conditioning costs, look for low-e windows with
lower SHGC values (0.55 or less). If energy
demand is dominated by heating, select
windows with a higher SHGC (0.55 or higher).
Window Checklist:
Caulk around window frames and

weatherstrip window assemblies.
In winter, install temporary plastic barriers
or storm windows with low-e coatings.
In winter, open shades during the day to
maximize solar gain and close at night.
In summer, reduce solar gain during the day

by closing blinds, shades, or curtains.
In summer, shade windows with overhangs,
awnings, insect screens, or landscaping.
If replacing windows, buy new Energy

Star windows with a U-factor of 0.35 to
0.40 or lower.
ENERGY SAVINGS: Up to 30% to 40% for
heating and cooling. Allows for the
replacement of HVAC units with smaller,
less expensive units.
42
The type of window frame is also crucial to the

overall energy performance of a window. Highperformance window frames use less conductive materials
and incorporate insulating materials into the window assembly.
Aluminum window frames are the most heat conductive and
offer the worst thermal performance. Wood frames provide
much better performance while insulated vinyl frames and
fiberglass frames provide superior thermal performance. The
thermal performance of window frames has been substantially
improved in recent years by incorporating thermal breaks
(glazing spacers and insulating materials strategically located
to reduce heat flow through window frames) and materials
with higher thermal resistance.
Consider using different types of windows on different sides
of your home. For example, installing triple-pane, low-e, argonfilled windows with a lower U-value on the north side will
reduce heat loss in the winter. Installing double-pane, low-e,
argon-filled windows with a greater solar heat gain coefficient
on the south side will maximize solar heat gain during the
heating season.This type of integrated approach, combined
with the low-tech measures mentioned above, will provide
the greatest savings by maximizing energy performance.
Heating
eating may account for up to half of total home

energy usage. Next to air sealing and insulating the
building envelope to reduce heat loss, maximizing
the efficiency of your heating system offers the greatest
potential for saving energy and money. Fine tuning an
existing heating system or replacing it with a more energyefficient system, combined with measures to reduce heating
loads, can reduce energy usage for heating by up to 50%.
Fine Tuning (Maintenance and

Commissioning)
Performing simple maintenance on existing heating systems
can produce significant savings. If you have a furnace or heat
pump, clean or replace air filters once a month during the
heating season, and make sure your distribution outlet
system (registers, grills, baseboards, or radiators) is clean and
free from obstructions. For heat pumps, have the inside
evaporative coil cleaned once every two years.
Have your system tuned-up by a professional ($75 to $150)
every two years for gas-fired systems, every year for oilfired boilers, and every two to three years for heat pumps.
Regular tune-ups will increase the life of the system,
reduce breakdown and repair costs, and identify
potentially dangerous combustion and ventilation
problems. Proper cleaning and adjustment for optimal fuel
and airflow will reduce energy usage for heating by 3%
to 10% and will usually pay for itself in a year or less
through fuel savings.
Heating technicians can perform a number of other

modifications to your system, such as reducing the fuel flow
rate with smaller nozzles, adding an automatic flue damper,
or installing a pilotless ignition. These modifications will
make the heating system more energy efficient and ensure
a longer life for the system. If the technician cannot improve
the combustion efficiency of a boiler or furnace to at least
75% (equivalent to 64% AFUE), consider modifying the
existing heating system or installing a new system.
One of the best ways to increase the energy efficiency of
heating systems is to address air leakage in the duct
system. Air leakage occurs as conditioned air traveling
through ductwork in unconditioned spaces is lost before
it reaches its destination or as hotter exterior air infiltrates
the duct system. In all, duct leakage may account for 10%
to 20% of a homes total air leakage. These losses can be
reduced by air sealing ductwork located in unconditioned
spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces. Duct sealing can
reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20% at very
low cost. Seal any air leaks with mastic (a non-toxic paste)
and wrap ducts in unconditioned spaces with R-8
insulation to reduce thermal losses. For houses with boilers
and hot water pipes, install specially made pipe insulation
to reduce heat losses in the distribution system.
Using Heating Systems Intelligently

For every degree that you lower the thermostat,you will reduce
your heating bill by 2%. As a result, it makes sense to set the
43
Heating
thermostat as low as is comfortable in colder weather.The best

way to do this is with a programmable thermostat, which can
reduce heating and cooling costs by 20% to 30%. At a cost of
$25 to $150, a programmable thermostat will usually pay for
itself in a year or less. The thermostat can be programmed to
automatically lower room temperatures while you sleep, raise
them before you get out of bed, lower them while you are
gone during the day, and then raise the temperature again
before you get home. These savings can be increased by
closing doors and registers in unused rooms or turning off
radiators in areas of the house that are used infrequently.
Buying a New System

If your existing heating system is near the end of its
working life or is very inefficient, replacing it may be a
wise investment. To illustrate this, consider the full life-cycle
cost of a heating system. Life-cycle cost includes not only
the initial purchase price of the heating unit but also the
operating costs (utility and repair bills) over the life of the
unit. Lifetime operating costs may typically exceed ten
times the initial cost of the unit. Replacing an inefficient
heating system with a highly efficient system that is
correctly sized and carefully installed by a knowledgeable
contractor may result in a 15% to 20% annual return on
investment in the form of lower utility bills.
Consult a qualified contractor to select the most appropriate
heating system for your needs. Also, refer to the American
Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) Consumer
Guide to Home Energy Savings (aceee.org/consumerguide) for

a list of the most energy-efficient models on the market. Make
sure that the contractor accounts for insulation levels, air
sealing, and other energy-efficient features in the home when
sizing the system. A system that is too large will cycle on and
off more frequently, resulting in more wear and tear on the
system, higher utility bills, and reduced comfort due to greater
temperature fluctuations.
Insist that the contractor use Manual J sizing calculations
endorsed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America.
Rule of thumb sizing calculations based on square footage
generally result in oversizing a system by 50% or more. Make
the contractor show you the calculations backing up the
choice of system size.
Gas and Oil Heating Systems

Most residents in colder climates use natural gas- or oil-fired
furnaces or boilers for heating. The energy efficiency of
furnaces and boilers is measured by Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency (AFUE). AFUE is an annual measure of how
efficiently a system converts fuel into useful heat throughout
the heating season based on standard operating parameters.
When purchasing a new furnace or boiler, look for products
with the Energy Star label.To qualify for the Energy Star label,
furnaces must have an AFUE of at least 90% and boilers must
have an AFUE of 85% or better. Natural gas furnaces are
generally the most energy-efficient systems available; many
have an AFUE of 94% to 97%.
Heating System Efficiency

HEATING SYSTEM
Furnace
Boiler
FUEL
Gas-fired
Oil-fired
Gas-fired
Oil-fired
TYPICAL EFFICIENCY
84 AFUE
81 AFUE
74 AFUE
79 AFUE
ENERGY STAR
90 AFUE
and above
85 AFUE
and above
MOST EFFICIENT
96.9 AFUE
95 AFUE
95 AFUE
88.7 AFUE
Sources: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, 2001; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; U.S. Department of Energy,
Office of Building Technology, BTS Core Data Book, 2001.
44
Heating
When choosing among two furnaces with similar AFUE

performance, select the one that uses less electricity to
power its fan motors. Purchasing a system with efficient
fan motors can reduce heating costs by as much as $100
annually. Some furnaces use more than 1,200 kWh annually
to power fans while the most energy-efficient furnaces use
as little as 100 kWh annually.
If you have a natural gas- or oil-fired boiler, it makes sense
to replace it with another boiler system, since switching
the distribution system (e.g., hot water pipes to air ducts)
will be cost prohibitive. While many boilers have an AFUE
of 85% or better (Energy Star requirement), some have an
AFUE of as high as 90% to 95%.
Heating Checklist:
When purchasing a furnace or boiler, specify a sealed

combustion system, which brings in outside air for
combustion and exhausts combustion gases directly to the
outside. Improperly vented furnaces and boilers without

sealed combustion can backdraft potentially deadly
combustion gases, such as carbon monoxide.
Electric Heating Systems

Electric resistance heating systems use electric current to
directly heat a home. This method generally costs two to
three times more than natural gas heating and is extremely
inefficient, since only one-third of the energy used at the
power plant actually reaches your home in the form of
electricity. Electric heat pumps are much more energy
efficient than electric resistance heating, since they require
very little electricity to move heat from one place to another
(from outside air, water, or the ground to inside the house).
Additionally, these systems can run in reverse in the summer
to provide air conditioning.
Lower thermostat at night and during the day when the house is
unoccupied.
Clean or replace furnace or heat pump filters.
Clean heating registers and clear objects from registers.
Clean baseboard heaters and radiators, and keep radiators free from
any obstructions.
Air seal the joints and seams of all ductwork in unconditioned

spaces with mastic.
Insulate ducts and hot water pipes in unconditioned spaces (e.g.,

attic, crawl space).
Have your heating system professionally cleaned and tuned-up.
Install a programmable thermostat.
Buy a properly sized Energy Star furnace, boiler, or heat pump.
Incorporate passive solar design principles when designing a new

home or remodeling an existing one.
The energy efficiency of heat

pumps in the heating mode
is measured by Heating
Season Performance Factor
(HSPF) and Coefficient of
Performance (COP).
Many new homes in Pennsylvania have air-source heat
pumps. These systems are best
suited to mild climates, because
they become inefficient at low
temperatures and rely on
inefficient backup heating
mechanisms when outside
temperatures drop below 200 F
to 30 0 F. If air-source heat
pumps are suited to your
regional climate, choose an
Energy Star model.
Geothermal ground-source
heat pumps are more energy
efficient than air-source heat
45
Heating
pumps because they use the constant temperature of the

earth or groundwater to both heat and cool a home. These
systems require heat transfer loops to be buried in the
ground and are therefore more expensive to install.
However, these systems have proven to be cost effective
with new home construction, since they require less
maintenance, use less energy, and can also provide
inexpensive water heating during much of the year.
Passive Solar Heating

The use of passive solar design principles can reduce a
buildings heating load by 10% to 95%. Passive solar
design begins with proper siting and orientation of the
46
building. Comprehensive, integrated passive solar design

incorporates the use of high-performance, south-facing
windows for optimal southern exposure; walls and floors
with thermal mass, which store heat gained during the
day; high levels of insulation and a tight building
envelope to retain heat; and proper glazing and shading
to prevent overheating. When integrated, all of these
design features minimize the need for mechanical
heating. To learn more about passive solar design,
contact the Sustainable Buildings Industry Council, at
(202) 628-7400, www.sbicouncil.org . You can also refer
to the Solar Energy Industries Association, at (202) 6287745, www.seia.org, to locate passive solar design
professionals in your area.
Cooling
o cool your home more efficiently and improve

comfort, it pays to reduce the cooling load, use
natural cooling methods, and maximize the efficiency
of the existing air conditioning system. If the existing air
conditioning system is inefficient or oversized, it will generally
be cost effective to replace it with a new, properly sized, energyefficient system. Reducing cooling loads and improving the
energy efficiency of mechanical air conditioning can reduce
energy usage for cooling by 20% to 50%.
Reducing Cooling Load

The best approach to ensuring a comfortable home during
the summer is to prevent it from getting hot in the first place.
This requires preventing heat build-up from the outside (due
to radiant heat from sunlight passing through windows, heat
transfer through walls, and air infiltration) and from the inside
(generated by inefficient appliances and lights). Addressing
these issues and providing adequate natural ventilation may
eliminate the need for air conditioning altogether.
Half of unwanted heat and moisture gain in the summer
comes from heat transfer and air infiltration through roof,
ceilings, and exterior walls. To reduce these effects, first air
seal the building envelope and add insulation, as suggested
in the previous sections. To further reduce heat gain, you
may also want to consider the following: (1) installing a
radiant barrier along attic rafters to reflect infrared heat
radiation; (2) planting shade trees on the east, west, and
south sides of the house; (3) using a white or reflective
roofing surface; (4) increasing interior air movement using
ceiling fans; and (5) increasing controlled ventilation by
installing a whole house fan or household mechanical
ventilation system.
Inefficient lights and appliances account for 30% of

unwanted heat gain. Upgrading lighting and appliances with
more energy-efficient models will help reduce heat gain and
lower cooling loads. For example, 90% of the energy used to
operate an incandescent light is emitted as waste heat.
Energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights emit 90% less
heat. New energy-efficient appliances also produce far less
waste heat compared to older, less efficient models. Wise
planning of heat producing tasks can also reduce the heat
buildup inside the house. For example, use the dishwasher
and clothes dryer later in the evening when it is cooler. Also,
plan meals to minimize heat buildup, and use the microwave
when possible during the hottest days.
Incident solar radiation (sunlight) passing through windows
(solar gain) accounts for 20% of unwanted heat gain. The
energy contained in incident solar radiation is stored in floors,
walls, and furniture as heat, which is slowly released into the
home throughout the day.To prevent excess solar gain, block
the sunshine on the east and west sides of the house by
closing blinds or drapes during the day or shading with trees,
trellises, or awnings. If replacing existing windows, purchase
high-performance ones with low-e glazing, which limits
unwanted heat gain (see Windows section).
Ventilation
In Pennsylvania, using natural or mechanical ventilation can
reduce, or even eliminate, the need for air conditioning. The
best strategy is to keep your house tightly sealed during
hot days and ventilate at night when temperatures drop
below 77F. Open screened windows in windy locations,
and make use of a whole-house fan or window fans when
natural ventilation is inadequate. If using a whole-house
47
Cooling
fan, make sure you have sufficient outlet vents in the attic
(the vent area should be twice that of the fan openings),
and remember to open several windows while operating.
Another option is to exhaust naturally rising warmer air
through clerestory windows, creating a stack effect that
creates air movement inside the house as cooler air is drawn
in through windows on the first floor. Finally, ensure that
unfinished attic space is properly ventilated with ridge and
soffit roof vents.
Since dry air feels cooler, limiting moisture buildup through
natural and mechanical ventilation will improve the comfort
of your home and reduce cooling loads. Ventilate the
clothes dryer outside, make use of bathroom and kitchen
exhaust fans when showering and cooking, and place lids
on pots when boiling liquids.
Air Conditioner Operation and Maintenance

When ventilation isnt enough to keep you comfortable
and you have already taken steps to reduce unwanted
heat gain, mechanical air conditioning may be necessary.
The three most common types of air conditioners
central units, room or window units, and heat pumps

all transfer heat from the interior of a house to the outside
environment with the help of a transfer medium and
mechanical compressor. The energy efficiency of
mechanical air conditioning depends on the technology,
proper system sizing, the energy efficiency of the unit, and
regular system maintenance.
To maximize the efficiency of a central air conditioning
system, have it cleaned and tuned-up by a service technician
every two to three years. The service technician should also
check the refrigerant charge. For window air conditioning
units, clean or replace the filters monthly, clean the condenser
every year, and clean the evaporator coils every other year.
Air sealing and insulating air-handling ducts and plenums
in unconditioned spaces (especially in the attic) can reduce
energy usage significantly and will often pay for itself in
one to two years. Dont forget to air seal chases carrying
ductwork through unconditioned spaces. Air seal duct
boots to floors and walls using caulk or mastic (see Building
Envelope section). Clean registers regularly and keep them
clear of any obstructions, including furniture and rugs.
Air Seal Air Handler and Plenums

Supply and Return Plenums
Air Handler
Mastic or caulk
Mastic collars to
metal plenum on
inside or outside
Mastic all corners

of metal plenums
Mastic
Mastic
Supply
Collar with strap;
mastic on take-off
Mastic
Mastic plenum
to air handler
Mastic or tape
exterior of duct board
Mastic to seal
refrigerant and
condensate line
Removable tape
Mastic
Return
Mastic exterior of collars
Filter rack
Mastic or caulk
48
Cooling
Also, consider the following suggestions for maximizing

operational efficiency:
Turn off the air conditioner when leaving for more than
an hour.
Shade the outside condenser (for central systems) or

room air conditioner units from direct sunlight while
being careful not to restrict airflow.
Remove window units each fall to reduce air leakage

during the heating season.
Turn off the power to a central air conditioning system

after each cooling season.
Finally, dont overrely on the air conditioning system.

Keep the thermostat as high as is comfortable. Each
degree the thermostat is raised will reduce cooling costs
by 3% to 5%. Using ceiling fans for natural air circulation
will allow the thermostat to be raised even higher with
no loss of comfort. Use a programmable thermostat to
maximize these benefits.
Air Conditioner Buying Tips

Air conditioner technology has made impressive energy
efficiency gains in recent years. New models now use up
to 70% less energy than previous models. The system you

choose will depend on the climate and cooling loads.
Proper System Sizing
Correctly sizing an air conditioner is critical to ensuring
comfort and reducing energy costs. An oversized system
wont properly dehumidify air, thereby reducing energy
efficiency and comfort.When sizing a system, make sure levels
of insulation, air sealing, lighting upgrades, and other energy
efficiency measures in the home are taken into consideration
by the contractor. When properly evaluated, these home
energy efficiency improvements will lower calculated cooling
loads, allowing for the installation of a smaller, less expensive,
and more energy-efficient cooling system.
Insist that the contractor use Manual J sizing calculations
endorsed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America.
Rule of thumb sizing calculations based on square footage
generally result in oversizing a system by 50% or more. Make
the contractor show you the calculations backing up the
choice of system size.
Energy Efficiency Ratings

Before shopping, familiarize yourself with the energy
efficiency rating systems used to evaluate air conditioner
performance. Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is used to
Cooling System Efficiency

SYSTEM TYPE
Central Air Conditioner
Room Air Conditioner
Heat Pump
(Cooling Mode)
(Heating Mode)
Geothermal Heat Pump
(Cooling Mode)
(Heating Mode)
EFFICIENCY
PARAMETER
SEER
EER
TYPICAL
EFFICIENCY
11
8.5-9.7
ENERGY
MOST EFFICIENT
STAR
MODEL
12-13 and above
17.6 and over
9.4-10.7 and above
11.7
SEER
HSPF
11..2
7.5
12 and above
8.0 and above
17.7
8.5
EER
COP
N.A.
N.A.
14.1-16.2 and above

3.3-3.6 and above
23.9
4.1
Sources: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, 2001; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; U.S. Department of Energy,
Office of Building Technologies, BTS Core Data Book, 2001.
49
Cooling
Cooling Checklist:
Shade windows on the east, west, and

south sides of the house with screens,
blinds, curtains, window overhangs, or
landscaping.
Utilize natural ventilation by

opening windows at night when
the temperature drops below 77F.
Increase interior air movement with

ceiling fans.
Turn the thermostat up as high as is

comfortable (78F or higher).
Install a programmable thermostat.
Close registers in unoccupied rooms.
Clean or replace air conditioning filters

monthly during the cooling season.
Buy energy-efficient lights and

appliances to reduce heat buildup.
Have air conditioning units cleaned

and tuned-up every other year.
Add a white or reflective roof coating

or a light shade of shingles when reroofing.
If purchasing an air conditioner,

choose an energy-efficient Energy
Star model.
If replacing windows, buy highperformance Energy Star models.
ENERGY SAVINGS: 20% to 50%
compare the efficiency of room or window air

conditioners. EER is the ratio of the cooling output divided
by electricity use. Central air conditioners and heat pumps
(in the cooling mode) are evaluated by Seasonal Energy
Efficiency Ratio (SEER). Though similar to EER, SEER is
calculated based on energy efficiency over a range of
operation by the unit during the cooling season. Both
these ratings are found on the yellow Energy Guide labels
50
that come with all air conditioner units (see Appliances

section). With both EER and SEER, the higher the number,
the greater the energy efficiency.
Most older central air conditioners and heat pumps have
SEER ratings of only 6 to 8. The most energy-efficient air
conditioners available today have an efficiency of SEER 17.6.
To qualify for the Energy Star label, split-system models must
have an efficiency of SEER 13 or higher (combined with a
heating-mode efficiency of HSPF 7.6 to 8.0 or higher for splitsystem heat pumps). Single-package models must have an
efficiency of SEER 12 or higher (combined with a heatingmode efficiency of HSPF 7.6 or higher for single-package
heat pumps). The minimum federal energy efficiency
standard for central air conditioning systems is SEER 10 for
split systems and SEER 9.7 for single-package systems
(combined with a heating-mode efficiency of HSPF 6.8 to
6.6, respectively, for heat pumps).
New minimum federal standards for room air conditioners

took effect in 2000 and require an efficiency of EER 8 to 9.8,
depending on unit size. Room air conditioners must have
an EER of 9.4 to 10.7 or better, depending on unit size, to
qualify for the Energy Star label.
To compare the energy efficiency of various air conditioner
units, visit the American Council for an Energy-Efficient
Economys guide to the most energy-efficient appliances,
at www.aceee.org/consumerguide.
Larger central air conditioners are generally more energy

efficient than room units. However, dont buy a larger unit
than necessary just to get a unit with higher energy efficiency.
Oversizing a system wastes energy and reduces comfort,
since oversized units cycle on and off frequently. Choose a
model with energy-saving features, such as a fan-only switch
for nighttime ventilation, an automatic-delay fan switch, and
a filter-check light to indicate when the filter needs cleaning.
If you live in a humid area, buy a model with a variable-speed
fan to aid with dehumid-ification. Use a lower speed during
very humid weather to increase dehumidification, and use
higher, more energy-efficient speeds the rest of the time.
Water Heating
ater heating accounts for the second largest

energy expense in your home. You can reduce
energy usage by up to 40% by taking some simple
steps to reduce hot water needs, improving the energy
efficiency of the existing hot water system, or by investing
wisely in a new properly sized, high-efficiency water heater.
Using Less Hot Water

The most cost-effective approach to cutting water-heating
expenses is to reduce the amount of hot water you use.
Small investments ($10 to $20) in water-conserving
showerheads and faucets can cut water consumption in
half and reduce annual energy bills by $30 to $90. Installing
low-flow fixtures is an easy do-it-yourself task that requires
a few parts, a wrench, and less than twenty minutes of time.
The resulting energy savings will usually pay for the original
investment in less than six months.
Look for efficient showerheads that use 1.2 to 2.0 gallons
per minute and are rated at 80 pounds per square inch
(psi). These products will cut water usage by 30% to 50%
without sacrificing shower quality. Faucet aerators mix air
with water to reduce water consumption while still
providing a high flow. For best performance, install aerators
that deliver 0.5 gallons per minute in the bathroom and
2.5 gallons per minute in the kitchen.
For further savings, fix leaky faucets promptly, run only full
dishwasher or clothes washer loads, and turn off the water
when washing or rinsing dishes, shaving, or brushing your
teeth. Also, use the warm- or cold-water setting when

washing clothes or doing household chores.
Turn Down the Heat

For fast and easy savings, turn the hot water heater down to
120F. This will save money, prevent scalding, and reduce
scaling and the buildup of mineral deposits in the hot water
tank, which will extend the life of the tank. Each 10-degree
reduction generally reduces water-heating costs by 3% to
5%. If your water heater doesnt have temperature settings,
set it halfway between low and medium and then check
water temperatures. If you have an electric water heater with
two thermostats, set them both at the same level. This will
prevent one heating element from doing all the work and
wearing out prematurely. Electric water heaters can also be
Home Hot Water Use

Sinks 11%
Bath 12%
Shower 37%
Dishwasher 14%
Clothes Washer 26%
51
Water Heating
controlled automatically with a timer ($70), which will reduce

water heating bills by an additional 5% to10%.These devices
automatically turn the water heater off for pre-set periods
when little or no hot water is used, such as midday or
overnight. Installing a timer will usually pay for itself through
energy savings in six to fourteen months.
the nine feet of hot water line and three feet of cold water
line closest to the hot water tank. Use foam insulation
designed for the appropriate pipe size and tape it in place.
Be sure to keep the insulation at least six inches from the
flue of a gas-fired water heater.
Preventative Maintenance
Cutting Standby Losses
Standby losses occur when heated water sits in the tank
waiting to be used. Wrapping the tank with a $15 insulating
jacket (R-8 to R-11) can reduce water-heating costs by 4%
to 9%, with energy savings paying for the investment in
less than a year. When insulating gas-fired water heaters,
be sure to keep the insulation away from the burner and
controls, as well as the flue at the top and the drain at the
bottom. Use acrylic tape to prevent the jacket from slipping
down and interfering with the airflow to the burner.
Heat is also lost when preheated water sits in bare copper
pipes waiting to be used. To slow this heat loss, insulate
The efficiency of an existing gas-fired water heating system

can also be improved by performing some simple preventative
maintenance. Release a quart of water from the drain valve
every three months to flush out any sediment that may have
settled at the bottom of the tank. Also, have a technician check
the heaters sacrificial anode, which is designed to inhibit rust
in the tank.Replace the anode with a magnesium rod if needed.
Have the burner cleaned and adjusted.
Buying Tips
When shopping for a new hot water heater, the cheapest
unit may not be the best buy. When purchasing an
Water Heaters: Life-Cycle Cost Comparison

SYSTEM TYPE
Natural Gas Storage (High Efficiency)
Natural Gas (Instantaneous)
Electric Heat Pump
Natural Gas Storage (Avg. Efficiency)
Indirect w/ Efficient Gas or Oil-fired Boiler
Solar w/ Electric Backup
Oil-fired (Free Standing)
Electric Storage (High Efficiency)
Electric Storage (Avg. Efficiency)
Electric (Instantaneous, 2-units)
TOTAL COST
$3,422
$3,471
$3,566
$3,709
$3,723
$4,348
$4,598
$6,031
$6,192
$6,515
INITIAL
INVESTMENT
$500
$650
$1,200
$425
$700
$2,500
$1,100
$500
$425
$600
ANNUAL
OPERATING COSTS2
$225
$217
$182
$253
$233
$142
$269
$425
$444
$455
EQUIPMENT
LIFE (YRS.)
13
20
13
13
30
20
8
13
13
20
Notes: 1. Assumes a 13-year lifetime; 2. Future costs are neither discounted or adjusted for inflation. Operating costs based on 9.1
cents/kWh for electricity, $0.93/therm for natural gas, and $1.18/gal. for heating oil. Costs rounded to nearest dollar. Options with
longer equipment lifetimes, such as solar water heating, are actually more economic than they appear, since they avoid the need for
investment in new equipment, versus options with shorter lifetimes.
Source: Adapted from American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings, 1999.
52
Water Heating
appliance, you are also making a commitment to pay for

the cost of maintaining and operating it throughout its
life. These total costs are often referred to as an appliances
life-cycle cost, which takes into account both the initial
purchase price and operation and maintenance costs.
Depending on the type of water heater purchased, the
life-cycle cost may vary by almost $3,000. Conventional
electric resistance storage heaters, while some of the least
expensive to buy, are the most costly to operate. Solar hot
water heaters, on the other hand, have a high purchase
price but low annual operating costs.
The energy efficiency of most water heaters is measured
by energy factor (EF), an overall measure of water heater
energy efficiency determined by U.S. Department of Energy
testing. Current federal efficiency standards for water
heaters require a minimum energy factor of 0.93 for electric
units, an EF of 0.62 for gas-fired units, and an EF of 0.59 for
oil-fired units. If the energy efficiency of two units is equal,
choose a model with a smaller storage tank, which will
reduce standby losses from the tank.
Water Heating Checklist:
The most energy-efficient electric storage water heaters

have energy factors between 0.94 and 0.96, equivalent to
estimated annual electricity usage of 4,700 kWh or less. The
most energy-efficient natural gas-fired storage water
heaters have energy factors between 0.62 and 0.68,
equivalent to estimated annual natural gas consumption

of 250 therms or less. Highly energy-efficient condensing
natural gas water heaters have energy factors of up to 0.86.
In general, natural gas-fired water heaters are less expensive
to operate and much more energy efficient than electric
models, since two-thirds of the energy used to generate
electricity is lost at the power plant. If a natural gas
connection is not available in your neighborhood, heat
pump water heaters are a more energy-efficient option
than electric resistance models. Some units also provide
space cooling as a byproduct of water heating. However,
heat pump water heaters do have higher purchase prices
and maintenance costs.
Since water in the storage tank is prone to standby heat
losses, always look for water heaters with higher levels of
insulation around the tank, and consider adding an insulation
jacket. Demand (instantaneous) water heaters provide hot
water only when it is needed, thereby eliminating any
standby losses from the tank. While hot water will never run
out, the flow rate may be limited, making these more suitable
for households with one or two people. The most costeffective demand models use gas without a continuously
burning pilot and have a modulating temperature control.
Indirect water heaters use a homes boiler or furnace to heat

water through a heat exchanger
and store heated water in an
Set the water heater thermostat to no higher than 120F (low
insulated tank. When used in
to medium).
combination with a high-efficiency
boiler or furnace, these heaters can
Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
be the least expensive way to heat
Wash clothes in cold or warm water and rinse in cold water.
domestic hot water.
Wrap hot water tank with an insulating jacket.
Insulate both hot and cold water pipes closest to the hot water tank.
When replacing your old water heater, buy an energy-efficient

gas model, or consider installing a solar hot water system.
Solar water heaters use the suns

energy to heat water through a
variety of methods and configurations. The most common
method (flat-plate collectors) entails
running antifreeze fluid through a
series of copper tubes that are
53
Water Heating
connected to a dark-colored absorber plate housed in an

insulated box on the roof. Heat is transferred from the
antifreeze to the water using a heat exchanger, and the water
is stored in an insulated tank. The system is backed up with a
natural gas or electric water heater to provide hot water
during cloudy periods.
In Pennsylvania, a solar water heater can provide approximately
two-thirds of a typical familys hot water requirements,
significantly reducing annual energy costs. While there were
problems with some systems installed in the 1970s and 1980s,
54
todays solar hot water systems are very reliable. For more
information on renewable energy options for the home, see
Clean Energy Choices, a booklet provided by the National
Renewable Energy Laboratory, available at www.nrel.gov/docs/
fy00osti/27684.pdf or by calling the Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy Clearinghouse, at (800) DOE-EREC (3633732). Additional information is available from the U.S.
Department of Energy, at www.eren.doe.gov/power/consumer.
Finally, make sure the water heating system chosen is

properly sized for your needs before purchasing.
Appliances
ppliances account for about 20% of average

household energy usage, most of which is used
by refrigerators, clothes washers, dryers,
dishwashers, and ovens. By taking some simple steps to
increase the performance of existing appliances and
replacing older ones with energy-efficient Energy Star
models, you can significantly reduce your energy bills.
Increasing Appliance Efficiency

The potential for improving the energy efficiency of
household appliances is great. Most homes have
refrigerators with inadequate insulation and inefficient
compressors, washing machines that use twice the
amount of water and energy than the most energyefficient models available, and consumer electronics that
draw power even when switched off. Whether you are
ready to replace old appliances with energy-efficient
models or not, there are a number of cost-effective
measures that can be taken to save energy and money
now. Use the following tips to improve the energy
efficiency of existing appliances or to purchase the most
energy-efficient models that meet your household needs.
and 38 F, and set the freezer at 0 F to 5 F (check with

a thermometer).
Clean the door seals and ensure that they are airtight.
Test with a dollar bill; if it pulls out easily, contact your
local service company to replace the gasket.
Defrost the freezer if significant frost has built up

(manual defrost models).
Clean the condenser coils annually and leave space

behind the refrigerator for air to circulate around
the coils.
Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in the refrigerator

to reduce moisture and prevent unnecessary wear on
the compressor.
Move the refrigerator to a cooler location (away from

stove, dishwasher, and direct sunlight, if possible).
Turn on energy-saver or power-saver switch (available

on some newer models).
Avoid putting hot items in the refrigerator; let them

cool to room temperature first.
Open doors as infrequently as possible; label items for

quick identification.
Keep refrigerator and freezer full. If not full, add plastic

water containers to help maintain temperature.
Unplug any extra refrigerator and/or freezer that is

nearly empty.
Strategies for Existing Appliances

Refrigerator/FreezerOne of the largest energy users in
the home, refrigerators and freezers cost less to operate when
properly sealed, insulated, and set at the correct temperature.
Set the temperature of the refrigerator between 36 F
55
Appliances
Clothes WasherSince 90% of the energy used to wash

clothes is used for heating water, the best energy-saving
strategy is to use less hot water.
Use lower temperature settings to achieve the same

cleaning results. Use warm or cold water for wash
cycle (hot water for grease stains) and cold water for
all rinse cycles.
Use recommended amounts of cold-water detergents.

Front-loading machines (horizontal-axis) require less
detergent because they use less water.
Wash full loads. If washing a smaller load, use the

appropriate water level setting.
Insulate hot water pipes and locate the washing

machine close to the water heater.
Use energy-saving cycles whenever possible.
Lower water heater temperature to 120F if the

dishwasher has a booster heater.
Use the air-dry feature to dry dishes. If the dishwasher

does not have this feature, turn it off after the final rinse
cycle and open the door to allow air drying.
If you must rinse dishes first, do so with cold water.
Be sure that the dishwasher is full but not overloaded.

Load according to manufacturer instructions.
When washing dishes by hand, fill a plastic tub rather

than letting the faucet run. Install a low-flow faucet head.
Oven/StoveUsing cooking appliances wisely and efficiently

will result in lower gas or electric bills and better tasting food.
Clothes DryerClothes will last longer using these energysaving tips.
Cook several dishes in the oven at the same time.

Microwave small meals.
Separate clothes and dry similar types together

(lightweight loads and heavy loads) to prevent
overdrying and excess energy usage.
Bake or roast large portions. Reheat leftovers by more

efficient means (microwave, toaster oven).
Dry full loads when possible, but be careful not to

overfill the dryer, as clothes will take longer to dry
without adequate space to tumble.
Use a thermometer and timer to avoid overcooking

and wasting energy through repeated opening of the
oven door.
Turn off the oven a few minutes before food is finished.
Cover pots on the stovetop to stop heat from escaping.
Use the smallest pan and burner that will do the job.
Clean the lint filter after every load to improve air

circulation.
On electric stoves, use flat-bottomed pans, which make

full contact with heating elements.
Check the outside dryer vent for lint clogs or possible

air infiltration.
Keep metal drip pans under the burners clean and

shiny to maximize heat reflection.
When using the ovens self-cleaning function, do so

immediately after baking.
Dont overdry clothes. If the machine has a moisture

sensor, use it.
Dry two or more loads in a row, taking advantage of

residual heat in the dryer.
Locate the dryer in a heated space.
Dry clothes for free on an outside clothesline or inside

drying rack.
DishwasherDishwashers manufactured since 1994 use

less than 1/2 kWh of electricity per wash cycle.
56
Purchasing New Appliances

Whether old appliances have reached the end of their useful
lives, or you are furnishing a new home, it always pays to buy
energy-efficient appliances. Begin by looking for models with
Appliances
the Energy Star label, which you will find on refrigerators and
freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, and home electronics,
such as televisions, VCRs, and stereos. Some of these products
may be eligible for rebates offered by your utility or state
government. For a list of manufacturers and retail stores in your
area offering Energy Star appliances, visit www.energystar.gov.
You can also refer to the American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economys Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings,
or visit ACEEEs website, at www.aceee.org/consumerguide, for
a list of the most energy-efficient appliances on the market.
Most major appliances are required to have an Energy Guide
label, which shows annual energy usage in kWh (electricity)
or therms (natural gas) and the estimated annual operating
cost. Use the following information to help select the most
energy-efficient model based on your needs.
Refrigerator/FreezerBetter insulation, more efficient
compressors, and other advanced energy-saving features
make many of todays refrigerators three times more energy
efficient than those made in the 1970s.
different models using Energy Guide labels and choose

the one that uses the least amount of energy.
Buy a size that best fits your needs. It usually costs less
to run one large refrigerator than two small ones.
Choose a model with a freezer on top, rather than a sideby-side model.These models use 7% to 13% less energy.
Manual defrost models use less electricity but must be

defrosted periodically.
Automatic icemakers and through-the-door dispensers

will increase energy usage.
Buy a model with automatic moisture control or, at a

minimum, with an energy-saver switch, which allows
you to turn off or turn down the anti-sweat heater.
Clothes WasherFront-loading washers use up to 60% less

water and up to 70% less energy than top-loading washers.
Select a clothes washer with an Energy Star label.
Choose a model that uses the least amount of water

(horizontal-axis or front-loading).
Buy a model with several water level options for

different size loads.
Washing machines with faster spin speeds improve

water extraction and reduce drying times.
Both pre-soaking options and suds-saver features

reduce energy usage.
Select a refrigerator with an Energy Star label. Compare
Energy Guide Label

Based on standard U.S. Government tests
Clothes Washer
Capacity: Standard
Model(s)
Maytag
MAH5500B
Compare the Energy Use of this Clothes Washer

with Others Before You Buy.
This Model Uses

kWh/year
ENERGY STAR
A symbol of
energy efficiency
302
Energy use (kWh/year) range of all similar models

Uses Most
Uses Least
Energy
Energy
Clothes DryersDryers are typically among the top three

energy-using appliances in the house, so select carefully.
Gas dryers are less expensive to operate than electric

models.
Buy a clothes dryer with a moisture sensor. This feature

will prevent overdrying, saving money and extending
the life of clothes. Make sure the sensor actually senses
moisture, rather than air temperature.
Select a model with a cool-down cycle to reduce the

need for ironing.
1298
177
kWh/year (kilowatt-hours per year) is a measure of energy (electricity) use.

Your utility company uses it to compute your bill. Only standard size clothes
washers are used in this scale.
Clothes washers using more energy cost more to operate.
This model's estimated yearly operating cost is:
$24
When used with an electric water heater
$11
When used with a natural gas water heater
Based on eight loads of clothes a week and a 2000 U.S. Government national average
cost of 8.03 per kWh for electricity and 68.8 per therm for natural gas. Your actual
operating cost will vary depending on your local utility rates and your use of the product.
Important: Removal of this label before consumer purchase violates the Federal Trade Commission's Appliance Labeling Rule (16 C.F.R. Part 305)
57
Appliances
Select a dishwasher with the Energy Star label.
Choose a model with a booster heater and set the

water heater to 120F.
Choose a dishwasher that provides several different

wash cycle selections.
Make certain that the model chosen has an air-drying

option and use it.
Oven/StoveSelect a natural gas stove if gas service is

available. Gas stoves provide better cooking performance and
are less expensive to operate than electric stoves.
If purchasing an electric oven, select a self-cleaning

model, which will have more insulation. Note, using this
feature often will offset energy savings.
Gas ovens and stoves cost less to operate than electric

models. Gas models are also more energy efficient,
since two-thirds of the energy used to generate
electricity is lost at the power plant. Choose a model
with electric ignition to reduce gas consumption.
Convection ovens distribute heat evenly, which

decreases cooking times.
Select a microwave oven that has variable power

settings and will turn off when food is fully cooked.
If purchasing an electric stove, look for energy-efficient

cooktop options utilizing ceramic glass, halogen, or
induction heating elements.
Televisions and Home ElectronicsMore than half of

all American households own two or more color televisions.
Choose energy-efficient models to reduce energy usage.
58
Select appliances and electronic equipment with the

Energy Star label. Choose the model with the lowest
wattage.
Appliance Checklist:
DishwasherSome of todays dishwashers have multiple

energy-saving features, such as a heater booster, air-dry
options, and water sensors to determine optimal wash cycle
length and water temperature.
Use appliances wisely.
Conduct preventative maintenance.
If purchasing new appliances, choose

Energy Star models.
See individual appliance sections for

additional tips.
ENERGY SAVINGS: 30% to 60%
Buy appliances that create minimum phantom loads

(see below for details).
Phantom Loads
Many home electronics and small appliances (e.g., TVs,
VCRs, stereos, cordless phones, answering machines,
portable tools, coffee makers, etc.) continue to use
electricity in small amounts even when the appliance is
supposedly off. Features such as instant-on, remote
control, channel memory, and LED clock displays draw 1
watt to 20 watts of power continuously. Direct-current
transformers, which power cordless phones, rechargeable
tools, and hand-held vacuums, draw 1 watt to 3 watts
when plugged in. Altogether, the average household
continuously leaks about 50 watts to 70 watts, equivalent
to about 5% to 9% of total residential electricity usage, or
enough to power a light bulb. This amounts to at least
440 kWh a year, or $37 in wasted energy based on the
average price of electricity in the U.S.
To minimize these phantom loads, unplug televisions,
VCRs, and other appliances when on vacation, and always
use energy-saving features on stereos and other electronic
equipment. Also, unplug chargers, transformers, and other
small appliances (e.g., coffee maker, bread machine) when
not in use to avoid unnecessary energy waste.
Fortunately, some new consumer electronics are now
designed to minimize standby energy use. Look for
products with the Energy Star label.
Lighting
ighting accounts for 5% to10% of total household

energy usage. While this is relatively small compared
to energy costs for heating, cooling, and other major
appliances, substantial savings can be achieved through easy,
cost-effective measures that will improve the quality of light
in your home.
Begin with an assessment of your current lighting needs.
Determine the location and wattage of artificial lighting
used throughout the house. Look for ways to reduce the
time lights are on and consider replacing existing
incandescent lights with energy-efficient compact
fluorescent lights (CFLs). Replacing just half of
incandescent bulbs in high-use areas with compact
fluorescent lights will reduce energy usage for lighting
by 50% or more.
Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs)

Introduced to the market in the1980s, compact
fluorescent lights (CFL) have revolutionized household
lighting. CFLs last an average of ten times longer than
incandescent bulbs, use 75% less energy, and produce
90% less heat. With a compact design and numerous
shapes and sizes, CFLs can easily replace incandescent and
halogen bulbs in standard fixtures.
Standard incandescent light bulbs are extremely inefficient.

Only 10% of the energy used to power an incandescent
light bulb is transformed into light. The remaining 90% of
energy is lost as heat.
The economic benefits of compact fluorescent lights are

significant. Although CFLs have a higher purchase price
(prices range from less than $5 to $20), you can expect to
save about $25 to $50 over the life of the light compared to
using incandescent lights. When you spend 75 cents for a
100-watt incandescent light bulb, you are also committing
to spending nearly $7 for electricity during the 750-hour life
of the bulb. Considering that you will need to replace more
than ten incandescent bulbs during the life of one CFL, its
easy to see why using incandescent lighting is so costly. CFLs
are readily available at most home improvement centers. A
wide variety can also be purchased by mail order from Energy
Federation Incorporated, at (800) 876-0660, www.efi.org.
Avoid spending extra on long-lasting or energy-saving

incandescent light bulbs. Watt Miser, Supersaver, and
Econo-Watt incandescent bulbs are essentially as
inefficient as regular incandescent bulbs. These products
are simply lower wattage bulbs that produce lower light
output. Long-life incandescent bulbs, on the other hand,
are less energy efficient than standard bulbs, since longlasting filaments use more electricity while producing less
light output.
Most CFLs use electronic ballasts, which eliminate startup flicker and buzzing noises, and they provide excellent
light quality, not the bluish-white light of fluorescent
lights in the past. CFLs come as integral or modular units.
Integral CFLs contain the bulb and the ballast in a single
unit while modular units have separate screw-in ballasts
and a replaceable bulb. Since the ballast generally lasts
five times longer than the bulb and replacement bulbs
cost just a few dollars, modular units can save even more
Incandescent Lights
59
Lighting
Halogen Lights
money in the long run. When shopping for CFLs and

fixtures, look for Energy Star labels to identify the most
energy-efficient products.
Halogen lights are specialized incandescent lights that are

ideal for situations where precision light focusing is
required. Although these lights are slightly more energy
efficient than standard incandescent lights, fluorescent
lights still lead the way in efficiency. In recent years,
halogen torchiere floor lamps have become very popular.
However, these inefficient lights require 300 watts to 500
watts of electricity and produce heat up to 1,100 0 F,
creating a potentially serious fire hazard. Fortunately, many
companies now sell compact fluorescent torchiere floor
lamps. While these lamps cost slightly more initially, they
reduce energy usage by 60% to 80%, do not produce
significant heat, and produce 50% more light output.
Tube Fluorescent Lights

These two-foot and four-foot fluorescent lights preceded
the CFL. Tube fluorescent lights are ideal for laundry room,
garage, and workshop. Although in the past tube
fluorescent lights often flickered a bluish-white light and
produced a buzzing sound, newer energy-efficient T-8
models with electronic ballasts produce a warm, pleasant
light and are completely silent. Using T-8 or T-5 fluorescent
lights with electronic ballasts and reflectors can reduce
electricity use by 30% to 40% compared to older T-12
models using magnetic ballasts, which are subject to
flicker and buzzing.
For more detailed information on various lighting

technologies, visit www.lightsite.net.
Life-Cycle Cost Comparison:

Incandescent vs. Compact Fluorescent (CFL) Bulbs
$80
$70
$66.54
Maximizing Lighting
Efficiency
Maximize Natural DaylightThe

most pleasing type of light to the eye
is sunlight, which also happens to be
free. Recent studies have shown that
students and workers are happier and
more productive in buildings with
higher levels of natural daylight. To
maximize interior daylight, use lightcolored curtains or reflective blinds,
and paint walls and ceilings a light
color. You may also want to consider
installing a skylight or light-pipe to
brighten dark areas of the house.
Switch to Compact Fluorescent

LightsThe best lighting investment
you can make is to replace the most
frequently used incandescent lights
(those that are on for four or more
hours a day) with compact fluorescent
lights.Though initially more expensive,
Electricity Cost
Bulb Cost
$60
$50
$40
$30
$20
$10
$16.38
$9.75
$12.00
0
75-Watt Incandescent
Bulb (13)
18-Watt Compact
Fluorescent Bulb (1)
Note: Assumes a cost of $.75 for each 75-watt incandescent bulb and a cost
of $12 for an 18-watt CFL bulb, a bulb life of 750 hours for incandescent
bulbs and 10,000 hours for CFLs, and an electricity cost of 9.1 cents/kWh.
Source: Adapted from Rocky Mountain Institute, Homemade Money, 1995.
60
compact fluorescent lights will save several

times the purchase price through reduced
energy costs and the need for fewer
replacement bulbs. Using compact
fluorescent lights will also reduce the hassle
of frequently changing incandescent bulbs.
When shopping for CFLs, compare the light
output (measured in lumens) with
incandescent bulbs. For example, an 18-watt
CFL produces light output equivalent to a 75watt incandescent bulb (1,200 lumens).
Lighting Checklist:
Lighting
Turn Lights OffGet in the habit of turning

off the lights in rooms that are no longer
occupied. For those who easily forget, invest
in occupancy sensors that detect infrared heat
or motion to automate the process. Timers
and photocells (which turn off artificial
lighting when natural light levels are
adequate) also offer a convenient way to
reduce energy bills while meeting lighting
needs and safety requirements.
Maximize natural daylight.
Replace frequently used incandescent lights with

compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).
Turn lights off when leaving rooms or install

occupancy sensors.
Use task lighting in kitchen, work places, and

reading areas.
Reduce background lighting levels, especially

when using incandescent lights (most households
use higher wattage bulbs than necessary for a
pleasing atmosphere).
Use dimmers in rooms where high light levels are

not frequently required.
Switch outdoor lights to CFLs and install timers.

Consider using solar-powered exterior lighting.
Clean fixtures, reflectors, and bulbs regularly to

insure optimal light output.
Use Task LightingYou can reduce eye

strain and save energy by focusing light where
it is needed instead of brightly illuminating an
entire room. Using task lighting allows you to
reduce the wattage of background lights and provides
a more pleasing environment. Locate task lighting
under kitchen cabinets, by a reading chair, or over a
desk for enhanced lighting quality.
Invest in Dimmers and Three-Way LampsIn
areas where varying levels of light are needed, such as
bathrooms, dining rooms, or hallways, the use of
dimmers and three-way lamps offer convenient, flexible
solutions that also reduce electricity usage. Standard
compact fluorescent lights should not be used on
circuits controlled by a dimmer due to a risk of fire.
Special CFLs with dimming ballasts are available for
these applications.
Use Incandescent Lights WiselyIncandescent
lights are best suited for places where lights are seldom
and briefly used, such as closets, stairways, or a furnace

room. When using fixtures that hold multiple
incandescent bulbs, it is more efficient to use a single
higher wattage bulb than several lower wattage bulbs.
For high-use areas where lights remain on for more
than a couple of hours a day, save money by using
compact fluorescent lights.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Outdoor Lighting

Use compact fluorescent lamps with a photocell or
timer in outdoor light fixtures. These devices will
ensure that lighting hours are minimized. Purchase a
lamp with a cold-weather ballast for the temperatures
of Pennsylvania. Consider using solar-powered
walkway or patio lights, which eliminate the need for
expensive wiring.
61
Home Office
any people are now telecommuting, leaving

their cars in the driveway and setting up an
office at home. While telecommuting reduces
traffic congestion and air pollution, it also contributes to
higher home electricity bills. Maximizing the energy
efficiency of existing home office equipment and selecting
the most energy-efficient new equipment can reduce
electricity usage in the home office by 50% or more.
Monitor, Printer, Scanner: Turn off when idle for 15

minutes or more.
Maximizing Efficiency
Like all other appliances, home office equipment must be
operated wisely in order to maximize energy efficiency. You
would not leave the television on all day long to avoid a
few extra moments waiting for it to turn on. The same logic
applies to office equipment.
Turn it offThe greatest energy savings will come

from simply turning off office equipment when it
is not being used. Office equipment is designed
to handle hundreds of thousands of on-off cycles,
so equipment will not be damaged. Unplugging
office equipment or turning off power strips will
eliminate phantom loads and protect units against
voltage surges. For maximum benefits, follow
these guidelines:
Computers: Turn off if you dont plan to use again within
60 minutes.
Copier: Turn off if you dont plan to use again within 60
minutes.
62
Activate Sleep ModeThe sleep feature on all

Energy Star office equipment reduces energy usage
by switching the unit to a low-power mode after a
period of inactivity. Remember to activate this feature
on new equipment and adjust the timer to as short a
time as possible to maximize energy savings. (Note,
most screen savers do not save energy unless they
actually turn the screen off.)
Purchasing Energy-Efficient Office

Equipment
Look for the Energy Star label to identify the most energyefficient models. Follow the advice below to identify the
best equipment for your needs.
Computers
Energy Star computers power down to 15 watts to 35

watts of demand or less when not in use, reducing
demand by up to 60% compared to standard models.
Laptop computers use 45% to 85% less electricity than

desktop computers.
When comparing the energy efficiency of various

models, rely on energy use while in operation as
opposed to rated power to determine the most
efficient model.
Home Office
Home Office Checklist:
Monitors
Energy Star monitors power down to 15 watts of
demand or less during inactivity and use up to 90%
less energy than standard models.
Choosing a smaller monitor will save energy. A 15-inch
color monitor uses 20% less energy than a 17-inch color
monitor.
Liquid crystal displays (LCD), found on laptops and
many new desktop computer models, use 50% to 60%
less electricity per square inch compared to standard
cathode ray tube (CRT) desktop monitors.
Unplug or turn off office equipment

when not in use.
Activate sleep feature and adjust

timer to the minimum setting.
Purchase Energy Star products and

select models with the lowest
energy use while in operation when
comparing two equivalent products.
See individual home office equipment

suggestions for additional energy
savings details.
Printers
Standard-sized Energy Star printers power down to 10

watts to 75 watts of demand when not being used,
reducing energy usage by 65% or more.
Look for printers with a double-sided printing option.

This saves the energy used to make the paper and the
money used to purchase it.
Ink jet printers use up to 80% to 90% less energy while

providing comparable print quality.
The faster the printer, the more energy it uses. Choose

according to your needs.
printing, and scanning in one machine use substantially

less power than separate pieces of equipment.
Copiers
Energy Star copiers have an energy-saver (sleep)

setting and draw only 5 watts to 20 watts or less when
shut down using the auto-off feature, reducing energy
usage by up to 60%.
Purchase a low-volume copier for home use.

Evaluate the energy rating to determine the most
efficient model (high-volume copiers use large
amounts of energy).
Choose a copier that has a short time to first copy

after its sleep mode.
Fax Machines
Energy Star fax machines power down to 10 watts to

15 watts when not in use, reducing energy usage by
up to 50%.
Inkjet fax machines use the least amount of energy.
Sending and receiving faxes by computer eliminates

the need for a fax machine.
Multifunction devices that combine faxing, copying,
Energy Star fax machines have a low-power sleep

mode and the ability to scan both sides of a sheet
of paper.
63
Financing
hile many of the preceding suggestions for

increasing the energy efficiency of your home
are low-cost investments, others measures, such
as replacing windows, heating and cooling systems, and
major appliances, require a larger initial investment.
Fortunately, preferred financing is available for both the
purchase and refinance of energy-efficient homes, allowing
borrowers to roll the cost of energy efficiency
improvements into home mortgages.
Financing options are available for homeowners in various
forms, including energy-efficient mortgages and unsecured
home improvement loans. Additional energy efficiency
incentives and services are also available to homeowners
and renters, such as product rebates and low-income and
community-based energy assistance programs.
Financing energy efficiency improvements is worth the
investment, since it will increase the resale value of your
home. A recent national analysis, published in the Appraisal
Journal, found that every one-dollar reduction in annual
household energy costs increases the selling price of a
home by $20. These findings provide further evidence that
homebuyers value energy efficiency and underscore the
fact that investing in energy efficiency is a wise decision
for new homebuyers and existing homeowners alike.
Valuing Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient homes are less costly to live in. Lenders
recognize that energy-efficient features reduce energy costs,
64
leaving borrowers with a higher monthly cash flow to repay a

mortgage. Energy-efficient mortgages reward these benefits
by providing preferred financing for the purchase or refinance
of energy-efficient homes or the cost of home improvement
projects and renovations that improve energy efficiency.
Financing the purchase of an energy-efficient home (or the
cost of home improvement projects that improve energy
efficiency when refinancing a home) puts extra money in
a borrowers hands every month. This is because additional
mortgage costs are exceeded by monthly energy savings,
reducing total monthly housing costs. As a result, borrowers
can enjoy a more comfortable home while improving
monthly net cash flow.
Energy-Efficient Mortgages
Energy-efficient mortgages are available to homeowners
for the purchase, refinancing, or remodeling of homes. The
first step in obtaining an energy-efficient mortgage is
obtaining a home energy rating from a qualified energy
rater. A home energy rating is essentially an energy audit
performed by an accredited energy service professional
that follows the criteria of an established national or state
home energy rating system (HERS). The cost of the home
energy rating, typically $100 to $300, may be financed as
part of the mortgage or paid by the seller, the real estate
agent, the lender, or the borrower.
A typical home energy rating will assess the features of a
home, such as air sealing, insulation, and heating and cooling
Financing
systems, and rate the energy efficiency of the

house on a 0 to 100 scale (the higher the
score, the more energy efficient). The rater
will provide a list of recommended costeffective energy efficiency improvements.
The rater will also evaluate energy usage
before and after the energy efficiency
improvements, calculating expected energy
savings and the payback period of the
recommended investments.
Saving Money With an Energy-Efficient

Mortgage (EEM)
Energy Project Costs
Appraisal Value
Down Payment
Mortgage Amount
Monthly Mortgage Payment
Monthly Energy Savings
Total Monthly Payments
Standard Mortgage
NA
$100,000
$10,000
$90,000
$614
NA
$614
EEM
$3,000
$103,000
$10,000
$93,000
$634
($50)
$584
To qualify for an energy-efficient mortgage,

a home energy rating generally must
Note: Assumes 30-year mortgage term, 7.25% interest, borrower finances full
demonstrate that the home is energy
of cost of energy improvements.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, 2000; Fannie Mae, 2000.
efficient compared to a typical reference
home or that proposed energy efficiency
improvements are cost effective, meaning
Fannie Mae
they will save more money over their life than the original
800-7FANNIE (800-732-6643)
investment. Based on the results of a home energy rating,
www.homepath.com
lenders will provide established and nationally recognized
financial benefits to the borrower.
Fannie Mae sets specific criteria and provides incentives
for lenders that offer energy-efficient mortgages and loans.
For the purchase of a new energy-efficient home, lenders
will recognize the benefits of energy efficiency by
Energy-Efficient Mortgage
stretching the qualifying debt-to-income ratio by two or
Terms and benefits:
more percentage points. This allows the borrower to
Several home energy rating systems accepted
qualify for a larger mortgage and purchase a home of
No limit on cost of improvements for new homes
superior quality. Larger monthly mortgage payments are
more than offset by energy savings, reducing monthly
Cost of improvements limited to 15% of total home
housing costs for the borrower.
value for existing homes
Lenders will also roll the cost of making energy efficiency
improvements to a new or existing home into the mortgage,
both at the time of purchase or refinancing. Again, the
monthly cost of financing energy efficiency improvements
is more than offset by monthly energy savings.
Conventional Energy-Efficient Mortgages

and Home Improvement Loans
Most commercial lenders offer energy-efficient financing
through a number of programs.
Buyer may finance energy efficiency improvements

without an increase in down payment
Residential Energy Efficiency Improvement Loan

For specific information about this loan program in
Pennsylvania, contact AFC First Financial Corp., at 888-AFC
FIRST (888-232-3477), www.energyloan.net.
Terms and benefits:
Up to $20,000 in financing available
Below-market interest rate
65
Financing
Option of unsecured financing
Term of up to 10 years
Borrower may bundle multiple improvements through

a whole-house approach to energy efficiency
Freddie Mac
800-FREDDIE (800-373-3343)
www.freddiemac.com
Freddie Mac provides flexible guidelines and incentives for
lenders that offer energy-efficient mortgages.
Energy-Efficient Mortgage
Terms and benefits:
Several home energy rating systems accepted
Lenders may exceed standard two percent debt-toincome qualifying ratio stretch
Allows a broader range of energy efficiency

improvements compared to most energy-efficient
mortgage programs
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937)
www.energystar.gov
These federal agencies encourage lenders to provide
energy-efficient mortgages for Energy Star homes.
Energy Star Mortgage
Terms and benefits:
A minimum two percent debt-to-income qualifying
ratio stretch, plus one of the following benefits
Up to four percent extension of debt-to-income

qualifying ratio stretch
Discount on origination fee or closing costs
Payment of home energy rating cost
66
Government-Insured Mortgages and

Home Improvement Loans
The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and the Department
of Veterans Affairs ( VA) both offer energy-efficient
mortgages through approved lenders to borrowers who
would not ordinarily qualify for conventional mortgages.
Federal Housing Authority (FHA)
800-HUDS-FHA (800-483-7342)
www.hud.gov/progdesc/energy-r.cfm
FHA offers both energy-efficient mortgages and home
improvement loans.
FHA Energy-Efficient Mortgage
Terms and benefits:
Energy efficiency improvements costing up to $4,000 or
5% of the property value (up to $8,000) may be financed
FHA mortgage limits may be exceeded by cost of

improvements
No additional down payment, requalifying, or new

home appraisal required
Cost of home energy rating (up to $200) may be

financed through mortgage
FHA Energy-Efficient Home Mortgage

Terms and benefits:
Two percent debt-to-income qualifying ratio stretch
for the purchase of an energy-efficient home
FHA Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance (Section 203k)
Terms and benefits:
Home energy rating not required
Covers the purchase or refinancing of a home and the

cost of major home refurbishment, including projects
that improve energy efficiency
Cost of improvements must exceed $5,000
Financing
FHA Property Improvement Loan Insurance (Title I)

Terms and benefits:
Home energy rating not required
Home improvement loan of up to $25,000 for

homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages
May include projects that increase energy efficiency
Loan term of up to 20 years
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

800-729-5772
www.homeloans.va.gov
The VA guarantees mortgages for the purchase or
refinancing of a home by active-duty service personnel,
veterans, and qualified reservists.
VA Energy-Efficient Mortgage
Terms and benefits:
Energy efficiency projects of up to $3,000 may be
rolled into the mortgage without demonstrating
energy savings
Energy efficiency projects of up to $6,000 may be rolled

into the mortgage if expected energy savings equal
to the cost of the project can be demonstrated
Energy efficiency projects in excess of $6,000 may be

rolled into the mortgage at the discretion of the VA
Refinancing mortgage may not exceed 90% of

appraised home value, plus the cost of energy efficiency
improvements
Financing for Residential

Solar Energy Systems
Many of the mortgage and loan programs listed above offer
financing for solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar hot water
systems. The Borrowers Guide to Financing Solar Energy Systems
provides an overview of the eligibility of solar energy systems
under various mortgage and loan programs (see Additional
Information at the end of this section).
The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) of Southeastern

Pennsylvania offers grants of up to $8,000 to homeowners
and renters for the purchase and installation of solar PV
systems. Residents living within the PECO Energy service
territory are eligible (residents need not be a customer of
PECO Energy).
SDF has also partnered with AFC First Financial Corp. to offer
loans for solar PV and solar hot water systems through the
Fannie Mae-endorsed Energy Efficiency Improvement Loan
program. In addition, the maximum loan limit for FHA
203(b) and 203(k) mortgage insurance may be exceeded
by 20% if the home has a passive or active solar heating
system, or if the owner plans to install one.
Solar PV Grant Program
Sustainable Development Fund
215-635-0900
www.trfund.com/sdf/solarpv
solarpv@trfund.com
Terms and benefits:
PV systems must be between 1 kW and 5 kW in size to
qualify. The grant is paid to the owner of the system in two
installments. The first payment is equal to $3 per watt, up
to $6,000, and is paid upon successful installation of the
system. A second payment is made after one year of
operation, equal to $1.00 per kWh of generation from the
system, up to $2,000.
EnergyLoan
AFC First Financial Corp.
888-AFC-FIRST (888-232-3477)
www.energyloan.net
Terms and benefits:
Solar PV and solar hot water systems are eligible
Up to $20,000 in financing available
Option of unsecured financing
Term of up to 10 years
67
Financing
FHA Mortgage Increase for Solar Thermal Systems

Terms and benefits:
Maximum loan limit for FHA 203(b) and 203(k)
mortgage insurance may be exceeded by 20% if a
home has a passive or active solar heating system, or
the owner intends to install one
The home must have a fully operational conventional

backup heating system
Energy Efficiency Rebates

Rebates are often offered for the purchase of energyefficient products, such as compact fluorescent lights and
Energy Star appliances. Visit the Energy Star Web site
(www.energystar.gov) to find rebates through manufacturers, government agencies, or utilities.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
Energy Star Store Locator
888-782-7937
www.energystar.gov/stores/storelocator.asp
This service locates stores where Energy Star products
are found and provides information on available rebates
and financing.
Low-Income Assistance Programs

Various federal and state programs provide assistance to lowincome families, senior citizens, disabled homeowners, and
renters in saving energy and reducing utility bills. Contact
the organizations below for eligibility criteria and information.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(LIHEAP)
Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare
800-692-7462 (or contact your local County Assistance Office)
www.dpw.state.pa.us/oim/oimliheap.asp
LIHEAP is a federal program administered by states that
provides financial assistance to low-income households to
help pay home energy bills.
68
Low-Income Usage Reduction Program (LIURP)

Contact your local electric or natural gas utility.
puc.paonline.com/whatshot/tips_on_heating_assistance.
asp#LIURP
LIURP is a statewide, utility-sponsored program that assists
low-income families in improving energy efficiency and
reducing energy bills.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic
Development, Office of Community Services
717-787-1984 (or contact your County Assistance Office)
www.inventpa.com (click on find specific initiatives and
programs)
The Weatherization Assistance Program is a federally funded
program administered by states that delivers weatherization
services to low-income families, particularly the elderly,
persons with disabilities, and households with children.
Community-Based Energy
Assistance Organizations
Many community nonprofit organizations offer energy
assistance to low-income and senior households in the form of
grants,loans,energy efficiency services,and education programs.
Conservation Consultants, Inc.

412-431-4449
www.ccicenter.org
Conservation Consultants is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit
organization that provides energy efficiency services to area
residents, with special attention given to low-income and
elderly households.
Dollar Energy Fund
412-431-2800
www.dollarenergy.org
Dollar Energy Fund is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit
organization that provides financial assistance to help lowincome and elderly households pay utility bills.
Financing
Energy Cooperative Association of Pennsylvania

215-413-2122
www.theenergyco-op.com
The Energy Cooperative is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit,
member-owned cooperative providing electricity and
home heating oil to 6,500 residential and small business
consumers throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. The
Energy Cooperative promotes the efficient use of energy
and the use of renewable energy. The Energy Cooperative
provides energy audits for members, referrals to qualified
contractors, and educational materials to members.
Energy Coordinating Agency of Philadelphia
215-988-0929
www.ecasavesenergy.org
The Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA) is a nonprofit
corporation that works to provide low- to moderateincome people with access to safe, affordable, and reliable
sources of energy and water. ECA provides energy efficiency
services to households in the Philadelphia area.
A project of the Pennsylvania Public Interest Research

Group, PIRG Fuel Buyers is a consumer home heating oil
membership cooperative.
For Additional Information

A Shoppers Guide: Energy-Efficient Mortgages,
More for Less Money
Available from the DOE Office of Consumer Information by
e-mail, at consumer.information@hq.doe.gov.
Borrowers Guide to Financing Solar Energy Systems
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Available at www.nrel.gov/docs/fy99osti/26242.pdf. A
printed version can be obtained by calling 303-275-4363.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Clearinghouse (EREC)
800-363-3732
www.eren.doe.gov/erec/factsheets/feehome.html
PIRG Fuel Buyers

215-893-3835
fuelbuyers@pirg.org
www.pirg.org/fuelbuyers
69
Resources
Home Energy Audit
Residential Energy Services Network
760-806-3448
www.natresnet.org/dir/raters/pennsylvania.htm
Provides a directory of qualified home energy raters and energy auditors in
Pennsylvania.
National Home Energy & Resources Organization
888-876-9445
www.national-hero.com
Provides a national directory of certified home energy raters.
Building Performance Contractor Association
www.home-performance.org/bpca/access.htm#PA
Provides a directory of qualified energy auditors in Pennsylvania.
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
www.homeenergysaver.lbl.gov
www.homeimprovementtool.lbl.gov
www.hit.lbl.gov
Provides free, simple-to-use, on-line programs for estimating home energy
usage and energy savings potential.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse (U. S.
Department of Energy)
800-DOE-EREC (363-3732)
www.eren.doe.gov/EE/buildings_energy_audits.html
www.eren.doe.gov/consumerinfo/home_audit.html
Provides fact sheets on home energy audits and the Ask an Energy Expert
phone line.
Building Envelope
Southface Energy Institute
(404) 872-3549
www.southface.org
Provides fact sheets on air sealing and insulation.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse (U. S.
800-DOE-EREC (363-3732)
www.eren.doe.gov/EE/buildings_envelope.html
www.eren.doe.gov/consumerinfo/wx.html
Provides fact sheets on air sealing and insulation and the Ask an Energy Expert
phone line.
70
Building Science Corporation

978-589-5100
www.buildingscience.com
Provides architectural building details and technical recommendations for
energy-efficient building envelopes in various climates.
Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
800-438-4318
www.epa.gov/iaq/iaqxline.html
Provides information on indoor air quality.
Energy Federation Incorporated
800-876-0660
www.efi.org
Offers a wide variety of air sealing and weatherization products by mail order.
Insulation
404-872-3549
www.southface.org
Provides fact sheets on various insulation applications.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Buildings Technology Center
865-574-4345
www.ornl.gov/roofs+walls/
Provides comprehensive insulation information for homeowners.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse (U.S.
800-DOE-EREC (363-3732)
www.eren.doe.gov/consumerinfo.wx.html
Provides fact sheets on insulation and the Ask an Energy Expert phone line.
Windows
Efficient Windows Collaborative
202-530-2245
www.efficientwindows.org
Provides consumer information on the energy savings benefits of highperformance windows.
Resources
National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)

301-589-1776
www.nfrc.org/label.html
Provides information on the NFRC window performance rating system and label.
Energy Star Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
and U.S. Department of Energy)
888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937)
www.energystar.gov/products/windows/index.html
Provides a listing of Energy Star windows and a store locator service.
Water Heaters
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
202-429-8873
www.aceee.org/consumerguide
Provides a list of the most energy-efficient water heaters available on
the market.
Gas Appliances Manufacturers Association
703-525-7060
www.gamanet.org
Provides Consumers Directory of Certified Energy Ratings for Residential Heating
and Water Heating Equipment (updated bi-annually).
Heating and Cooling

202-429-8873
Provides a list of the most energy-efficient furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners
available on the market.
Energy Star Program(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937)
www.energystar.gov/products
Provides a list of Energy Star furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, and heat pumps
and a store locator service.
Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association
703-525-7060
www.gamanet.org
Provides Consumers Directory of Certified Energy Ratings for Residential Heating
and Water Heating Equipment (updated bi-annually).
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration,
and Air Conditioning Engineers
404-636-8400
www.ashrae.org
Sets good-practice energy efficiency standards and prescriptions for buildings
and homes, including heating and cooling system efficiency standards.
Air Conditioning Contractors of America
703-575-4477
www.acca.org
Publishes Residential Load Calculation: Manual J and Residential Duct Systems:
Manual D, which set good-practice standards for properly sizing and installing
Solar Energy Industries Association

202-628-7745
www.seia.org
Provides a directory of member residential solar energy system installers and
product manufacturers.
Lighting
Lightsite
www.lightsite.net
Provides information on a wide variety of energy-efficient lighting applications,
including a store locator service.
Energy Federation Incorporated
800-876-0660
www.efi.org
Offers a wide variety of energy-efficient lighting products by mail order.
Appliances
202-429-8873
Provides a list of the most energy-efficient appliances available on the market.
Energy Star Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937)
www.energystar.gov/products
Provides a list of Energy Star appliances and a store locator service.
heating and cooling systems.
Building Technology and Green Design
Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium

202-508-5500
www.geoexchange.org
Provides information on residential geothermal heat pump systems and a
directory of member companies.
Energy & Environmental Building Association

952-881-1098
www.eeba.org
Provides an extensive on-line catalog for the purchase of publications
addressing green building design, building guidelines, moisture control,
ventilation, and indoor air quality.
71
Resources
Sustainable Buildings Industry Council

202-628-7400
www.sbicouncil.org
Provides green building design tools, software, educational materials, and an
extensive on-line publications catalog.
American Wind Energy Association

202-383-2500
www.awea.org/pennsylvania
Provides information on wind power in Pennsylvania, including information
on how to purchase green power products offered in Pennsylvania.
Building Science Corporation

978-589-5100
www.buildingscience.com
Provides technical energy efficiency information for builders, including
architectural building details, building prescriptions, and builders guides.
Philadelphia Million Solar Roofs Community Partnership

215-988-0929
www.phillysolar.org
Provides information on residential solar energy system design, installation,
and financing in Pennsylvania.
U.S. Green Building Council

202-828-7422
www.usgbc.org
Provides a clearinghouse of green building information.
Solar Energy Industries Association

202-628-7745
www.seia.org
Provides a directory of member solar energy installers and product manufacturers.
Energy Star Home Program (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937)
www.energystar.gov/homes
Provides information on Energy Star homes, including a directory of Energy
Star homebuilders and partner lenders.
Sustainable Development Fund of Southeastern Pennsylvania

215-925-1130
www.trfund.com/sdf/index.html
Provides grants for the purchase and installation of residential solar
photovoltaic (PV) systems in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
National Association of Homebuilders Research Center

800-638-8556
www.nahbrc.org
Provides a clearinghouse of technical information for builders and
homeowners.
PennFuture Green Power Project

800-321-7775
www.greenpa.org
www.pennfuture.org/energy/energy_index.html
Provides information on Green-e certified renewable energy products available
in Pennsylvania, including a kit for purchasing available green power products.
Green Building Materials and Products
Pennsylvania Resources
Real Goods Solar Living Sourcebook

Real Goods
800-762-7325
www.realgoods.com
Extensive guide to renewable energy and energy-efficient products for the home.
Energy Efficiency Services

Low-Income Usage Reduction Program (LIURP)
Contact your local electric or natural gas utility
www.puc.paonline.com/whatshot/tips_on_heating_ assistance.asp#LIURP
Statewide, utility-sponsored program that assists low-income families in
improving energy efficiency and reducing energy bills.
Oikos Green Building Source

www.oikos.com/products
On-line green building product directory.
Guide to Resource-Efficient Building Elements
NCAT Center for Resourceful Building Technology
406-549-7678
www.crbt.org
Product guide to building materials manufactured from recycled, reused, or
salvaged materials. For the on-line version, click on e-Guide.
Renewable Energy
American Solar Energy Society
303-443-3130
www.ases.org
www.ases.org/hometr/index.php
Sponsors an annual national tour of solar homes, including homes in multiple
regions in Pennsylvania.
72
Weatherization Assistance Program

Department of Community and Economic Development, Office of
Community Services
717-787-1984 (or contact your County Assistance Office)
www.inventpa.com (click on find specific initiatives and programs)
Federally-funded program administered by states that delivers weatherization
services to low-income families, particularly the elderly, persons with
disabilities, and households with children.
Conservation Consultants Inc.
412-431-4449
www.ccicenter.org
Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization that provides energy efficiency
services to area residents, with special attention given to low-income and
elderly households.
Resources
Citizen Power
800-421-8010
www.citizenpowerinc.org
Pittsburgh-based nonprofit public policy research, education, and advocacy
organization. Citizen Power advocates for increased use of renewable energy
sources and energy efficiency technologies in the regional electricity market.
Offers educational services to the media and community organizations.
Energy Cooperative Association of Pennsylvania
215-413-2122
www.theenergyco-op.com
Philadelphia-based nonprofit, member-owned cooperative providing electricity
and home heating oil to 6,500 residential and small business consumers
throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. Promotes the efficient use of energy
and the use of renewable energy. Provides energy audits for members, referrals
to qualified contractors, and educational materials to members.
Energy Coordinating Agency of Philadelphia
215-988-0929
www.ecasavesenergy.org
Philadelphia-based nonprofit corporation that provides energy efficiency
services to households in the Philadelphia area.
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
877-PA-GREEN (877-724-7336)
www.paenergy.state.pa.us
Provides information on energy efficiency services available in Pennsylvania.
Utility Bill Assistance
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare
800-692-7462 (or contact your local County Assistance Office)
www.dpw.state.pa.us/oim/oimliheap.asp
Federal program administered by states that provides financial assistance to
low-income households to pay home energy bills.
Dollar Energy Fund
412-431-2800
www.dollarenergy.org
Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to
help low-income and elderly households pay utility bills.
Choosing an Electricity Provider
Pennsylvania Utility Choice
888-PUC-FACT (888-782-3228)
www.utilitychoice.org
Provides comprehensive consumer information for the selection of electricity,
natural gas, and telephone services in Pennsylvania, including an on-line
calculator to assess potential savings.
Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
800-684-6560
www.oca.state.pa.us
State agency that offers educational materials and acts as a consumer-interest
advocate for Pennsylvania utility customers.
Pennsylvania Organizations
Citizens for Pennsylvanias Future (PennFuture)
800-321-7775
www.pennfuture.org
Citizens for Pennsylvanias Future (PennFuture) is a statewide environmental
advocacy organization based in Harrisburg, with offices in Philadelphia and
Pittsburgh. PennFuture works to shape a just future where nature and the
economy thrive. (As part of its program activities, PennFuture provided financial
support for the printing and distribution of Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters.)
Green Power: Turn it On! is PennFutures flagship campaign. The goal of the
campaign is to reduce Pennsylvanias reliance on old coal-fired power
plants and nuclear power to produce electricity and encourage the
development of renewable energy resources and promote energy
efficiency. Specifically, Green Power: Turn It On! aims at changing
Pennsylvanias energy mix so that 10% of the electricity used in the State
comes from renewable resources by 2010.
PennFutures website contains the Make Every Kilowatt Count section, with
information on how to save energy by improving home energy efficiency.
PennFuture also provides speakers and referrals to organizations and
businesses that offer energy efficiency services in Pennsylvania.
PennFuture advocates before the state legislature and state agencies for public
policies that promote the development of renewable energy resources and
the implementation of energy efficiency in homes, institutions, and businesses.
For more information about how to get involved, visit www.pennfuture.org
or call 800-321-7775.
Affordable Comfort
724-627-5200
www.affordableccomfort.org
Promotes energy-efficient home construction, remodeling, repair, and operation
through national and regional conferences and training and educational initiatives.
Clean Air Council
215-567-4004
www.cleanair.org
Promotes programs to increase energy efficiency and the utilization of renewable
energy; organizer of the ASES solar home tour in the Philadelphia region.
Green Building Alliance
412-431-0709
www.gbapgh.org
Promotes green building practices in the Pittsburgh region and operates a
green building resource center, which serves as a clearinghouse for green
building information through a walk-in library, website, and resource hotline.
Green Building Association of Central Pennsylvania
717-292-2636
www.gbacpa.org
Promotes environmentally responsible building design, planning, construction,
and operation.
73
Resources
Pennsylvania Resources Council

610-353-1555 (Philadelphia Office)
412-488-7490 (Pittsburgh Office)
www.prc.org
Provides community information about environmental living, recycling, waste
reduction, and energy efficiency.
Bower, John. The Healthy House. The Healthy House Institute, 2001.
Addresses indoor air quality problems and how to fix them.
Available form the Energy & Environmental Building Association
(www.eeba.org).
Bower, John. Understanding Ventilation. The Healthy House Institute, 1995.
Available form the Energy & Environmental Building Association (www.eeba.org).
Sustainable Pittsburgh
412-258-6642
www.sustainablepittsburgh.org
Promotes the integration of environmental quality and social equity concerns
into regional development strategies in the Pittsburgh region.
Other Organizations
Alliance to Save Energy
202-857-0666
www.ase.org
Non-profit coalition of business, government, environmental, and consumer
organizations that promotes energy efficiency domestically and internationally.
202-429-8873
www.aceee.org
Promotes energy efficiency as a means of increasing economic prosperity and
protecting the environment. Provides an on-line guide to the most energyefficient appliances and heating and cooling systems available on the market.
Rocky Mountain Institute
970-927-3851
www.rmi.org
Promotes the protection of natural resources by showing businesses,communities,
individuals, and governments how to increase economic growth and
employment through the efficient use of energy and other resources.
404-872-3549
www.southface.org
Promotes green building practices and household energy efficiency.
Further Reading
Books
Wilson, Alex, Jennifer Thorne , and John Morrill. Consumer Guide to Home Energy
Savings. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, 1999.
Available from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
(www.aceee.org).
Heede, Richard. Homemade Money. Rocky Mountain Institute, 1995.
Available from the Rocky Mountain Institute (www.rmi.org).
Kachadorian, James. The Passive Solar House: Using Solar Design to Heat and
Cool Your Home . Chelsea Green, 1997.
Available form the American Solar Energy Society (www.ases.org).
Periodicals
Environmental Building News
802-257-7300
www.buildinggreen.com
Well-respected newsletter addressing energy-efficient, resource-efficient, and
healthy home design and construction practices and products (published
monthly).
Environmental Design and Construction
415-863-2614
www.edcmag.com
Magazine covering the green building industry (bi-monthly).
Home Energy Magazine
510-524-5405
www.homeenergy.org
Magazine addressing practical energy efficiency and indoor air quality
solutions (published bi-monthly).
The Journal of Light Construction
802-879-3335
www.jlconline.com
Magazine targeted at residential builders and home improvement enthusiasts
addressing construction best practices; frequently deals with energy-efficient
building practices and products (published monthly).
Builders Guides
Lstiburek, Joseph and Betsy Pettit. EEBA Builders Guide: Cold Climate. Energy &
Environmental Building Association, 2000.
Available from the Energy & Environmental Building Association
(www.eeba.org).
Lstiburek, Joseph and Betsy Pettit. EEBA Builders Guide: Mixed Climate. Energy &
Environmental Building Association, 2000.
(www.eeba.org).
Crosbie, Michael J. (ed.). The Passive Solar Design and Construction Handbook.
John Wiley & Sons, 1997.
Available form the American Solar Energy Society (www.ases.org).
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and Practices. John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
(www.eeba.org).
Carmody, John. Residential Windows: A Guide to New Technologies and Energy

Performance. Norton Professional Books, 2000.
74

Formed in 1980, the Safe Energy Communication Council (SECC) is an energy policy coalition of national public interest
energy, environmental, and media organizations. SECC works to increase public awareness of the ability of energy efficiency
and renewable energy to meet an increasing share of our nations energy needs and of the serious economic and
environmental liabilities of nuclear power. SECC provides local, state, and national organizations with technical assistance
through media skills and strategy training, outreach, and consulting services.
SECC Board of Directors

Andrew J. Schwartzman, SECC President
Media Access Project
Tina C. Hobson, SECC Vice President and Secretary
Renew the Earth
Chris Bedford, SECC Treasurer
Center for Ethical Production
Anna Aurilio
U.S. Public Interest Research Group
Debbie Boger
Sierra Club
Herb Gunther
Public Media Center
Wenonah Hauter
Public Citizen
Michael Mariotte
Nuclear Information and Resource Service
Erich Pica
Friends of the Earth
Jim Riccio
Greenpeace USA
SECC Staff
Scott Denman, Executive Director
Linda Gunter, Communications Director
Randa Kayyali, Director of Finance and Administration
Christine Patronik-Holder, Ohio Media Director
Christopher Sherry, Research Director
Priya Doshi, Communications Associate
Dennis Roy, Program Coordinator and Executive Assistant
Shannon Maher, Energy Efficiency Intern
Safe Energy Communication Council, 2002
Printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks
Look inside to find out how to:

Save money
Increase home value
Improve comfort
Help the environment

1717 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 106
Washington, DC 20036
202.483.8491
www.safeenergy.org

Home Energy Saving

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PENNSYLVANIA HOME POWER BOOSTERS

Install water-conserving showerheads and faucets (page 51).

Upgrade attic insulation to R-49 (page 34).

ANNUAL SAVINGS: $60 to $80

Christopher Sherry and Chad Medcroft

ennsylvania Home Power Boosters enables you to

Increase the resale value of your home

Help the environment by reducing pollution

Reduce maintenance costs and service call backs

Home Energy Expenditures

Space Heating 29%

Space Cooling 11%

Note: 1. Includes small electric devices, heating elements, motors, swimming

Home Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Space Heating 32%

At the end of the booklet, a comprehensive

Using the Guide to Home Energy Savings

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

backdrafting of dangerous combustion gases, such as

Tamasin Sterner and Richard Senft Lancaster, PA

ost people dont like to take their work home

source of air leakage, a common problem in older

Cold drafts that were previously felt

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

Other problems still remained after Tamasin and

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

the crawl space to provide continuous fresh air. After all of

Air-sealed building envelope (attic,

Increased levels of insulation in

Air-sealed and insulated airhandling ducts

Compact fluorescent lights in

Energy Star refrigerator, washing

ENERGY SAVINGS: 35%

To keep electric bills low, they have purchased Energy Star

Kathleen and Paul Gaberson Forest Hills, PA

athleen and Paul Gaberson wasted no time

comfortable home thats cooler in the summer and

We have a more comfortable home

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

We like knowing that we are making

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

Double-pane, vinyl-clad insulated

Increased levels of insulation in

Daylighting, natural ventilation

Passive solar heating (french doors

Compact fluorescent lights

Natural cooling (ridge ventilation

Energy Star washing machine

ENERGY SAVINGS: 30%

Lyn and Anne Pherigo Whitehall, PA

yn and Anne Pherigo retired a few years ago and

window and doorframes. Expanding foam insulation

The difference between an energyefficient house and an energy hog is

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

The house also features an insulated front door, with an

Smaller heating and cooling systems

Insulated front door with adjustable seal

ENERGY SAVINGS: 30%

Pennsylvania Home Power Boosters

Vivian VanStory Philadelphia, PA

ivian VanStory moved into her new 1,280 sq. ft.

Passive solar features provide natural