Diane M.—Improving Energy Efficiency and Comfort

The Challenge: Diane M.’s home presented several significant energy and comfort challenges. Despite having solar panels installed, her energy bills remained surprisingly high. Additionally, she experienced severe temperature imbalances in her home, particularly on the upper level, which led to major comfort issues. Diane sought a 

The Process: To address these concerns, Allied Experts scheduled a comprehensive energy assessment of Diane’s home. This detailed evaluation included:

1. HVAC System Inspection:
   • Reviewed the sizes, age, and efficiency ratings of all heating and cooling equipment.
2. Home Measurements:
   • Accurately measured the home’s square footage to determine the proper heating and cooling requirements.
   • Measured the attic to assess it’s impact on the home’s energy efficiency.
3. Insulation Assessment:
   • Inspected the attic insulation, and found there was only 2-3 inches of insulation noting it did not meet New Jersey’s updated standards. Of 15 plus inches of insulation Homes built over 10 years ago, like Diane’s, often lack sufficient insulation to properly separate conditioned and unconditioned spaces.

After completing the assessment, the data was sent to Allied Experts’ proposal and engineering department. Using advanced software, the team analyzed the findings and determined potential energy savings if energy-efficient HVAC equipment was installed and the attic was properly sealed and insulated. The analysis revealed that Diane’s home could achieve a 25% reduction in energy usage.

The Solution: Diane decided to move forward with the Home Performance with Energy Star program. Key aspects of the program included:

• Financial Incentives:
  • Diane received $5,000 in rebates toward the project.
  • The remaining balance was added to her PSE&G bill over 10 years, with no interest on the loan.
  • The remaining balance would be added directly to her PSE&G bill and paid out monthly.
• Upgrades Implemented:
  • Installation of energy-efficient HVAC equipment.
  • Comprehensive attic sealing and insulation to meet current standards.

The Results: Following the completion of the project, Diane noticed immediate improvements in her home:

1. Enhanced Comfort:
   • Temperature imbalances on the upper level were resolved, creating a consistently comfortable environment throughout the house.
2. Improved Air Quality:
   • A reduction in dust levels led to noticeable improvements in air quality.
   • Diane’s nighttime coughing decreased significantly, enhancing her overall quality of life.
3. Energy Savings:
   • With the energy-efficient upgrades, Diane’s home became more cost-effective to run, aligning with the projected 25% energy savings.

Gas usage before the customer upgraded her HVAC equipment and air sealed and insulated her attic:

• December 2023
  • Gas – 214.514 Therms = $222.33

Gas usage after the customer upgraded her HVAC equipment and air sealed and insulated her attic:

• February 2024
  • Gas – 122.311 Therms = $75.99
  • Total Gas savings $146.34
  • This home has solar panel so the electric usage charge is Between $4.95  and  $10.00 a month. 

Conclusion: Through the Home Performance with Energy Star program, Diane M.’s home was transformed into a more energy-efficient, comfortable, and healthier living space. The combination of rebates, interest-free financing, and significant energy savings made the program an ideal solution for Diane’s concerns. Her experience highlights the tangible benefits of partnering with Allied Experts to tackle energy efficiency and comfort challenges.