September 21, 2016
New Mexicans are putting away the shorts and flip flops and picking up coats and jeans for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. For homeowners, this is the perfect time to start preparing their home for the colder weather as well. If you are looking to save money on your heating bill, consider having the insulation in your home inspected. Insulation is a winter coat for your home and will save you money and energy year around. When thinking about energy savings homeowners’ first concern is their air system, but improper insulation and improper air sealing lets the warm air in your home escape. Imagine wearing a coat with a hole in it, it is letting the warm air out and allowing the cold air in. Jeannine Miller from Miller’s Insulation, a local company that has been in business in Albuquerque for 31 years, says proper insulation and air sealing can give people consistent comfort in the home and help cut down on their electric and gas bills. People can save 20-40% on their energy bills with proper insulation and air sealing. “Nine out of ten homes are under insulated,” said Miller. New Mexico Gas Company and PNM are offering rebates for insulation projects. Insulation codes were not always required in New Mexico. Older homes and buildings may be losing their energy savings to poor insulation and air sealing.
Signs of bad insulation
Some signs that your insulation needs to be inspected is the presence of drafts, having rooms that are hotter or colder than the rest of the home and increasing energy bills. Have your insulation inspected if you have had a problem with infestation or a leak in your roof. Wet insulation can lead to mold and mildew and should be replaced. Homes that have had a lot of work done to them, especially HVAC and electrical work, should also be inspected.
Insulation requirements in Albuquerque
In the past, insulation was not always required in newly constructed homes, said Miller. The Department of Energy has insulation zones for homes varying by region, Albuquerque is in region 4. Insulation is measured by its capability to be resistant to heat passing through it called its R-value. Due to the warmer temperature in Albuquerque, The Department of Energy recommends an R38-R60 for attics and R25-R30 for floors in Albuquerque homes. The R-value determines the thickness of the insulation. Homeowners in this range will experience their best energy efficiency, comfortable temperatures and energy savings. Insulation can be fiberglass, cellulose or spray foam. Homes can have batts, blown in fiberglass and at the highest efficiency level spray foam. The code is the same no matter the material or application.
Rebates
Having your home inspected comes with more benefits than improving energy efficiency. New Mexico Gas Company and PNM offer rebates to homeowners who use a participating contractor when they add insulation to their attic. Local professionals like Miller’s Insulation participate in the rebate program, know the Albuquerque market well and are familiar with working in the different types of houses in New Mexico. Rebates come in different tier levels. Ask a professional for information on rebates, types of insulation and energy efficiency when considering having your insulation inspected. Insulation typically lasts a lifetime, so have your home inspected now and benefit from all the savings.