Mecca Residence in southern Maryland – Estimated to reduce utility bills by 25%

About the Project

Melanie Mecca is an environmentally conscious homeowner who suspected that her home had significant energy-loss problems. She was especially worried about her garage, which leaked cold air into the rest of the home.

Ms. Mecca is an IT professional who values straightforward, analytical methods to diagnose problems, create a plan of action, and then execute the plan. She approached her home’s energy challenges with the same philosophy, seeking the advice of RESNET-certified energy inspector Pascale Maslin, founder of Energy Efficiency Experts (EEE).

Analysis and Upgrades

Beginning with a RESNET HERS blower door test, Pascale conducted a complete home energy audit with a detailed inspection of internal and external areas, including vents, skylights, fireplaces, attic insulation and the garage. The audit was followed by a detailed report that outlined cost-effective upgrades to increase the home’s energy performance and lower Melanie’s utility bills.

Pascale met with Melanie to explain the findings and answer her questions, walking her around the house to point out the sources of energy loss. Pascale provided a checklist of recommendations that included sealing leaky areas, filling gaps around her recessed lighting and skylights, adding insulation to the garage, addressing phantom appliance loads, and using more energy-efficient lighting.

Key Benefits

The homeowner received valuable recommendations on cost-effective upgrades to conserve energy and was encouraged to take advantage of available tax incentives. The sources of energy loss were precisely pinpointed, which encourages cost savings by allowing the homeowner to tackle only the exact repairs necessary. As a result of the improvements identified, Melanie expects a decrease in her utility bills of 25 to 30 percent.

Why RESNET?

Pascale has been a RESNET member since 2007. According to Pascale, “Having a certification from a respected national entity like RESNET” provides “a third-party stamp of approval that makes customers more comfortable” and ensures “they have access to the tax credits and other important government incentives” that are driving more and more homeowners to improve the energy performance of their homes.