1957 Split-Level - Annapolis, MD
Reason this BGE Customer is Getting the AuditRecently moved into the home and was concerned about possible rodents in the attic. This lead to a recommendation for insulation with special pest control chemicals. The homeowner found out about the BGE Home Performance Program from a neighbor who when through it and decided to get a second opinion. General Profile - 1957 Annapolis Split-Level Admiral Heights Neighborhoods, Annapolis, Split Level Style House Year Built: 1950-1960 Common Insulation Challenges: Crawl spaces are sometimes too low for treatment, attic areas are inaccessible or filled with storage or HVAC ducts HVAC Ducts: Ducts are often outside of the envelope - in attics or crawl spaces - due to retrofitting central HVAC systems years after the home was built Unique Features: Often, these homes have fantastic additions because they open up more space for families, but the way these new parts of the house were integrated and insulated leaves a lot to be desired. | Homeowner Takeaways from this Annapolis BGE Energy AuditThe attic did not stand out as an infested area as an exterminator had suggested. The crawl space is open with an HVAC system and ductwork that presented a huge opportunity, otherwise not considered. The lower attic had a hatch in the wall and several large uninsulated areas that needed attention.
Long-Term Problems if Left UncheckedLots of cold days and hot nights. Extra wear and tear on the HVAC system. High humidity in spaces like basements and crawl spaces is a breeding ground for spiders and other insects. The long-term energy savings that you cannot recoup by waiting too long. Spend money on the wrong fixes that don't help solve the root cause (poor insulation). |
 The air handler for the heating and cooling "lives" in the open crawl space, somewhat exposed to the outside. A better solution is to seal the unit in by encapsulating the space (keep outside air out).  The knee wall created by a split-level home is typically a place in need of special care and attention, particularly around the access areas. |  Ducts in the crawl space should be sealed so they can better deliver the air to the places around the house you need it the most.  The blower door air leakage test is rather high for this size house. In this case the house, before any improvements, is exhanging air with the outside at a rate of thirteen times per hour (13 Air Changes Per Hour). |  Missing baffles around the attic (at the eaves) should be corrected before adding new insulation to maximize ventilation in the attic. Check Out the Crawlspace and Attic Assessment Video Below! |
How the energy audit helped this Annapolis homeowner:-This energy audit was able to guide this homeowner towards making a decision about how to best insulate from a place of understanding and knowledge, rather than out of fear (rodent infestation).
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 Building Performance Institute Eric Gans
Building Analyst Envelope Professional BGE Approved Energy Contractor |
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