LEXINGTON, N.C.—
Under a provision in the economic stimulus package signed into law Tuesday, $6.2 billion in grant money will be available to low and middle-income homeowners. In the Piedmont, the weatherization package grants are being handled through the non-profit Regional Consolidated Services.Kevin Scott is a diagnostic specialist who spent time Thursday auditing Betty Leonard's home in Lexington to find leaks in air ducts, walls, windows and insulation.
"When you're talking about air leakage, the average house has about a half a mile of unsealed cracks," said Scott. Other equipment he uses during an energy audit checks for natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks.
Scott said other areas where homeowners can notice quick savings is by replacing traditional light bulbs with compact florescent bulbs. The new bulbs are reportedly 75 more energy efficient.
Leonard received eight compact florescent bulbs as part of her weatherization kit.
Additional insulation in the attic, according to Scott, is another way to see a quick improvement.
"Not a lot of material, but you're talking about a huge payback on energy savings," Scott added.
After completing the weatherization process, Scott said Leonard's electricity bill should drop between 15 and 30 percent.
For more information about the weatherization program and to see if you qualify, click on the link in related items or call (336) 629-5141.
