QUESTION
I have some funds to do energy efficiency improvements to my old (1950’s) home, but I don’t know where to start. The home is well maintained, but has had no energy improvements. It seems that every contractor has the best product, and there are many claims about huge energy savings. The government rebates and tax credits just seem to complicate the issue. Where do I start?
ANSWER
There is no simple answer. I can outline where to logically start, but I think your home deserves an evaluation and some scientific testing before you start spending.
I suggest you contact Focus on Energy. Their goal is to provide information, resources and financial incentives to help improve energy efficiency in Wisconsin. The state program is well known throughout the country.
I used the Focus on Energy program called “Wisconsin Energy Star Home Program” when I built a new home. They gave advice on construction details, and worked with the builder on energy efficiency. The results were fantastic.
For existing homes like yours, they offer a service to scientifically evaluate your home and the systems in your home at a very reasonable price. Their consultants can test for leaks, review your equipment, and use a computer model to identify the best areas to invest.
Overall, you should look at the easy energy improvements and your old equipment. If you have a furnace that is over 25 years old, put that at the top of the list. If the attic insulation has never been improved over the original three to six inches, that should be high on the list as well. Insulating the top of the basement wall, using low-flow plumbing fixtures, fluorescent lamps, and a set-back thermostat are simple changes with a great payback.
An evaluation by the Focus on Energy is the best first step. They also offer a new interactive website at Ask Focus on Energy. They will answer your questions and refer you to a large database of answers. If you have a unique question, one of the experts can respond.
When warm, moist air contacts a cold surface, you have condensation (just like moisture on that iced-tea glass in the summer).
I have a 12 year old Kolbe double hung window. One set of windows in a 2nd floor bedroom has had exterior condensation on the inside upper half of the storm window (not the actual double-hung itself). In cold weather this will ice/frost over.
Condensation on the inside of the storms is caused by warm, moist air leaking from the inside of the home around the interior, primary windows into the space between the primary window and storm. Once the moist air is there, the moisture condenses on the storms – the coldest surface.
