Residential Comfort & Energy EfficiencyTuesday, May 26 2020
I wanted to share an experience that I had when I moved into a townhouse in Laurel a few years ago. Prior to moving to North Laurel, I lived mostly in West Laurel, so I am not new to the area. What was a first time experience for me was July 2018. Whew! It was so hot! And so was the upstairs bedrooms all day and into the night and we were a bit concerned as it was our first summer in the new home and we like it cool when we sleep. At the time, I was about six months into being a home energy auditor. I was learning a lot, especially out in the field working with people in their homes all day. What I was realizing is that I am not alone. Lots of others are also hot upstairs in the summer. I wanted to share because here is what some people do and it does not solve their problem: 1. Replace HVAC System 2. Replace Windows Here is what we did (with a little insider info) and it came along with measurable results: Air sealed and insulated the attic and basement Now, the temperature throughout our townhouse is far more regulated. The upstairs is still a bit hotter during the hottest of days with full sun, but it cools down in the evenings and we can sleep. During the winter after getting the insulation work done, it was much easier to heat the house too. Anyways, I like to share that story with people I know because I see too many people trying to solve comfort with new AC or new windows and the only way to do it is with proper home assessment & correctly installed insulation. Hope you find a way to beat the Maryland summer heat!! |