400,000 + Minnesota Homes Have Inadequate Insulation
New energy efficiency standards for existing homes are being set in Minnesota through a new program called Energy Fit Homes. The HERS energy score is commonly used in new construction, but is often impractical or impossible to apply and administer in older homes, which make up a large percentage of Minnesota homes.
Energy Fit Homes provides certificatin of energy efficiency, combustion safety and ventilation in existing homes. Delivered at a significantly lower cost than other sustainability certifications, it focuses on energy efficient upgrades that are cost-effective to the homeowner.
Energy Fit Homes Certification can be a great tool when both buying and selling a home. Certification can give sellers an edge, and it can offer buyers assurance that the home is energy efficient so they can focus on other things.
HOW IT WORKS
- The NEC (Center for Energy and Environment) will assess the home's energy efficiency and provide an Energy Score.
- They give the homeowner a list of projects to help them increase their score.
- They connect homeowners with qualified contractors to complete the recommended work.The NEC inspects the completed work and provides a new Energy Score along with the Energy Fit Homes certification.
- Check out their website for more information - http://TheNEC.org/EnergyFit
Below are some of the standards being set acheive a high enough score to qualify as an Energy Fit Home. Certification can be obtained through the Neighborhood Energy Connection (NEC) and their Home Energy Squad.
Making energy conservation easy
If you need CFL light bulbs, door weatherstripping, or a programmable thermostat, the Home Energy Squad is the place to start. The service will install a whole package of energy-efficient items in your home for a flat fee of just $70.
What are the benefits of an in-home audit?
An energy expert reviews your attic, insulation, doors, windows, furnace or boiler, and appliances and then identifies energy wasters, such as insufficient insulation or inefficient appliances. Your auditor will also diagnose health and safety issues, and will offer solutions for humidity and ventilation problems. Plus, you receive options for financing and rebates to help you make improvements.
How do I schedule a Home Energy Audit?
Xcel Energy gas and/or electric customers call 1-800-895-4999. (Note: you must be a combined gas/electric customer for the Infrared Audit.) If you are a CenterPoint Energy gas customer, call 1-800-234-5800.
Summary of Certification Requirements
Category
Requirement
Attic insulation and
Attic insulation is R-49 when possible, given existing space restrictions
air sealing
Attic bypasses are sealed, as measured by visual inspection or blower door testing Some flexibility is allowed, as long as Home Energy Fitness score is greater than 95
Wall insulation
Walls are insulated to capacity (without expanding the wall cavity)
Some flexibility is allowed, as long as Home Energy Fitness score is greater than 95
Heating equipment
Furnace/boiler at least 90% efficiency and a programable thermostat is installed
Windows
Windows are single-pane windows plus storm, or better
Lighting
At least 50% of lighting in permanent fixtures is efficient (CFL or LEDs)
Ventilation
Home receives adequate fresh air, or has appropriate exhaust fan for added ventilation
Combustion safety
Furnace/boiler and hot water heater meet combustion safety requirements, or are closed combustion appliances
Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results -green RealtorThe team at HomesMSP - Sharlene, John, Angela
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