Home Energy Audits—Part 2

• By Annette Parrish- Vice President

• In the last blog, posted in the March 2010 Newsletter, Larry shared that we had a blower door test performed on our own residence in order to learn which energy saving changes could save us money.  After we implement the changes, Xcel is offering rebates on specific energy upgrades. However, in order to receive any of the rebates it is necessary to implement three mandatory improvements and two optional improvements. Depending on which items you implement, the most you can possibly be rebated is about $1,100 until August 31, 2010 and then the most would be about $800.

• In order to receive rebates you may not perform the work yourself and you must use an approved contractor from Xcel’s “Participating Install Contractor List.”  Also, you must first pay for a Home Energy Audit with a blower door test (which is described in our last blog entry).  A Home Energy Audit includes a review of your attic, insulation, doors, windows, furnace or boiler, appliances and more.

1) Xcel’s Energy Audit identifies energy waste in places such as:

Design by Knudson Gloss Architects. Interior/exterior lighting by Crystal Electric. House remodel by Parrish Construction.

• Drafty windows
• Insufficient insulation
• Humidity problems
• Inefficient appliances
• Poor ventilation
• Inefficient heating & cooling systems

2) In order to receive rebates you must implement three required improvements:

• Air sealing & weather stripping
• Attic insulation and bypass sealing
• High efficiency lighting (CFL’s)

3) In addition, you must implement two additional improvements from the following:

• Wall insulation above grade
• Energy Star setback thermostat
• High-efficiency furnace or boiler
• Tankless or power vented water heater
• Energy Star refrigerator (primary)
• Energy Star dishwasher
• Energy Star clothes washer

• Certain pre-existing equipment can be counted towards your Home Performance requirements; however, you cannot receive a rebate for any previously completed improvements.  CFLs are allowed as pre-existing equipment as well as one optional improvement. 

• Xcel’s Colorado-based auditor, Lightly Treading is available to answer your questions, help you make decisions about which improvements are best for your home, and will collect your receipts and submit your rebate paperwork for you.  To take advantage of this free service, call 866-973-9268. The rebate program from Xcel is contingent on availability of funds and could be terminated at any time so you may want to check with them before you begin.

• All applications must be in before July 31, 2011 to qualify and there may be other restrictions. For more information go to Xcel Energy and click on Programs & Resources; Home Energy Audit.

• We always welcome your comments, questions and suggestions. Please feel free to post in the “Comments Box” below.