Are you a homeowner or renter in Westchester County looking to enhance the energy efficiency and comfort of your home while saving on your energy bills? Then we have exciting news for you! The Residential Weatherization Program (RWP) in partnership with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering a limited-time incentive of $5000 towards your Comfort Home Projects. This incentive applies to Package A, B, or C improvements, allowing you to transform your living space into a more sustainable and energy-efficient environment. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the RWP, the Comfort Home Program, the different packages and associated incentives, as well as the steps to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.
What is RWP (Residential Weatherization Program)?
The Residential Weatherization Program, offered by Con Edison, a leading energy company serving New York City and Westchester County, focuses on improving energy efficiency and comfort in residential properties while reducing energy bills. Through this program, eligible homeowners and renters receive cost-effective measures such as insulation, weather sealing, and heating and cooling system upgrades. These enhancements aim to minimize energy waste, enhance indoor comfort, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Participants also benefit from expert energy assessments, personalized recommendations, and financial incentives, making it easier to create a sustainable and energy-efficient living environment.
What is the Comfort Home Program?
The Comfort Home Program, implemented by NYSERDA, is an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing residential comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability. This comprehensive program seeks to transform homes into healthier and more comfortable living spaces while reducing energy costs and environmental impact. By promoting shell improvements such as efficient insulation, air sealing, and Energy Star rated windows, the Comfort Home Program offers incentives, technical expertise, and resources to homeowners, builders, and contractors.
Different Packages and Associated Incentives
There are different Packages and Associated Incentives to help you achieve your Comfort Home goals, the program offers three packages, each with its own set of benchmarks and incentives:
Package A – Attic and Rim Joist – $1000 This package focuses on improving insulation in the attic and rim joist areas. Achieving the following R-Values will make you eligible for the $1000 incentive:
- Rim Joist: Needs to be air sealed and insulated up to R-14
- Attic Hatch: Requires a flush seal and insulation up to R-20, or Attic Pulldown Stairs: Needs a flush seal and insulation up to R-13
- Attic Floor: Insulated up to R-38, or Attic Ceiling: Insulated up to R-38, Gable Ends: Insulated up to R-14, Knee Walls: Insulated up to R-15
Package B – Exterior Walls and Floor – $1500 This package targets the insulation of exterior walls and the floor between conditioned spaces and basements/crawlspaces. Achieving the following R-Values will make you eligible for the $1500 incentive:
- Exterior Walls: Insulate up to R-14
- Floor between conditioned space and basement/crawlspace: Insulate up to R-30, or Walls of Basement or Crawlspace: Insulate up to R-19
Package C – Windows and Storm Windows – $1500 This package encourages the installation of energy-efficient windows and storm windows. To be eligible for the $1500 incentive, 80% of the windows or storm windows in your living space must meet Energy Star standards.
How to Achieve the Required R-Values?
Achieving the required R-Values for each package is essential to qualify for the associated incentives. Here are some recommended insulation options:
Rim Joists – Spray foam insulation is the best option as it provides a superior air barrier, sealing gaps and cracks effectively. It expands to fill irregular shapes, reducing air infiltration and heat transfer. Spray foam insulation also offers a high R-value, enhancing insulation performance and energy efficiency.
Attic Entry – Foam board insulation is an excellent choice for sealing and insulating attic hatches due to its superior insulating properties and ease of installation. Foam boards provide a high R-value, reducing heat transfer and preventing energy loss through the attic hatch. They can be precisely cut to fit around the hatch, ensuring a tight seal and minimizing air leakage.
Attic – Batt fiberglass insulation is commonly used for insulating open attic joists. It is readily available, relatively easy to install, and provides effective thermal performance. If your attic floor joists already have insulation but need to reach R-38, cellulose insulation is the recommended option. Loose-fill cellulose insulation can conform to irregular spaces, ensuring comprehensive and uniform coverage, thus maximizing energy efficiency.
Basement/Garage/Unvented Crawlspace Ceiling and Walls – Batt fiberglass insulation is suitable for insulating crawl spaces, basements, and garages. It is relatively easy to handle and install, providing proper coverage by cutting and fitting around obstacles. Fiberglass insulation offers good thermal performance and resistance to heat transfer, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature within the space.
Vented Crawl Space – If your crawl space is open to the outside, spray foam insulation is the best option. It creates a seamless and airtight barrier, protecting against pests and reducing heat transfer. Spray foam insulation fills gaps, cracks, and voids, preventing pests from infiltrating the crawl space and providing additional moisture resistance.
Upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient and comfortable is now easier than ever with the $5000 Westchester Customer Incentive Bonus offered through the RWP and the Comfort Home Program.
By participating in these programs, you can enjoy significant financial incentives and expert guidance to enhance insulation, weather sealing, and window efficiency in your home. The RWP and Comfort Home Program empower residents in Westchester County to create a more sustainable living environment while reducing their energy bills and environmental impact. Don’t wait any longer! Give us a call to schedule a free energy audit and begin your journey towards a more energy-efficient and comfortable home today.
