Homeowner Takeaways from this Catonsville BGE Energy Audit

• Rodent Infestation: Not detected
• Crawl Space: Needs sealing and insulation, potential improvement for comfort and efficiency
• Attic: Needs insulation improvements, especially in areas with missing insulation

Long-Term Problems if Left Unchecked

• Increased drafts and discomfort
• Higher energy bills due to inefficiency
• Potential moisture issues in the crawl space
• Ineffective heating and cooling, leading to higher HVAC wear and tear

Recommendations for this Catonsville homeowner included:

This home will become more comfortable and energy-efficient by addressing the insulation gaps, sealing the crawl space, and improving ventilation. These changes will reduce drafts and lower the energy bills, creating a healthier and more sustainable living environment for this family.

• Air Sealing:

  • Current leakage: 3261 CFM50
  • Recommended reduction: 2282 CFM50
  • Benefits:
    • Increased Comfort: Reduces drafts and uneven temperatures, creating a more comfortable indoor environment.
    • Energy Savings: Decreases energy loss, leading to lower heating and cooling costs.

• Insulation:

  • Attic: Increase to R-49
    • Benefits:
      • Improved Temperature Regulation: Better insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
      • Reduced Energy Costs: More efficient insulation reduces the need for heating and cooling, cutting energy bills.
  • Kneewalls: Add fiberglass batt and air barrier to R-13
    • Benefits:
      • Enhanced Comfort: Improves the thermal boundary, reducing drafts and cold spots.
      • Energy Efficiency: Enhances the overall efficiency of the insulation system, leading to energy savings.
  • Crawl Space: Seal and insulate, add foam insulation
    • Benefits:
      • Moisture Control: Sealing and insulating the crawl space reduces moisture infiltration, preventing mold and mildew.
      • Energy Efficiency: Reduces heat loss through the floor, enhancing the home's overall energy efficiency.

• Ducts: Insulate to R-10 seal to improve airflow and efficiency

  • Benefits:
    • Improved Air Quality: Sealed ducts prevent contaminants from entering the HVAC system, improving indoor air quality.
    • Enhanced HVAC Efficiency: Properly insulated and sealed ducts reduce energy loss, making the heating and cooling system more efficient.

• Water Heater: Adjust temperature to 120°F

  • Benefits:
    • Energy Savings: Lowering the temperature setting reduces energy consumption.
    • Safety: Reduces the risk of scalding, ensuring a safer home environment.

• Ventilation: Install mechanical and local ventilation for improved air quality

  • Benefits:
    • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Ensures a steady supply of fresh air, reducing indoor air pollutants.
    • Energy Efficiency: Proper ventilation helps manage moisture levels and reduces the load on heating and cooling systems.

Potential Energy Savings with Improvements:

• Air Sealing:
  • Reduction in air leakage from 3261 CFM50 to 2282 CFM50
  • Estimated annual savings: $38.97
• Attic Insulation:
  • Increase insulation to R-49
  • Estimated annual savings: $38.42
• Kneewalls Insulation:
  • Add fiberglass batt and air barrier to R-13
  • Estimated annual savings: $4.48
• Crawl Space Insulation:
  • Seal and insulate, add foam insulation
  • Estimated annual savings: $11.74
• Duct Insulation:
  • Insulate to R-10
  • Estimated annual savings: $20.12
• Water Heater Temperature Adjustment:
  • Adjust to 120°F
  • Estimated annual savings: $21.81