Energy audit program saves money, benefits CH nonprofit

Individual homeowners and the Cleveland Heights nonprofit Home Repair Resource Center (HRRC) will benefit from a new program developed by Dominion East Ohio.

Using Dominion’s Home Performance with Energy Star Program, homeowners who are Dominion residential gas customers can qualify for a “deep discount” on the cost of an energy audit, receiving a three- to four-hour energy assessment – normally a $500 value – for only $50.  In addition, if a caller mentions HRRC, the nonprofit will receive a donation of $35 from GoodCents, the company providing the audits. For HRRC to benefit, the call to schedule an audit must be made by Nov. 15 to Katie Schade at (800) 653-3445 ext. 1885.

During the home energy assessment, a BPI-certified auditor from GoodCents will perform an array of tests, including a furnace inspection, combustion analysis on appliances, a blower door test to indicate air leaks in the home, and infrared camera images. The audit will also include free home improvements such as caulking, weatherstripping, door sweeps, duct sealing, water aerators and a low-flow showerhead.  

At the conclusion of the audit, the homeowner will receive a comprehensive set of recommendations, identifying and prioritizing measures to make the home more comfortable and energy-efficient.  If the homeowner makes any suggested improvements using pre-qualified contractors, he or she can receive a rebate of up to $1,250. A GoodCents auditor will return and check the quality of the work. Details are available at deohpwes.com.

Sustainable Heights Network will host an old house energy audit event during “No Impact Week,” Oct. 16 to 23. An auditor from GoodCents and a Cleveland Heights homeowner will describe a typical energy audit and present the results. Interested residents can sign up to learn more at www.sustainableheightsnetwork.net.

Rebecca Stager

Becky Stager has been the Home Repair Education Coordinator at HRRC since 1989. Visit Home Repair Resource Center's website, www.hrrc-ch.org, or call 216-381-6100 for more information.

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Volume 4, Issue 10, Posted 9:44 AM, 09.20.2011