One of the Most Cost-Effective Home Improvements Available
Properly insulating your home and sealing drafts around windows and doors keeps heat in during winter and out during summer, reducing the load on your heating and cooling systems year-round. Home weatherization can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, and many Maryland residents qualify for free weatherization assistance through utility programs or state agencies.
Improving your home’s energy efficiency through upgrades like better insulation and efficient windows enhances comfort, reduces bills, and lessens your environmental impact. Properly insulating your home will help keep the heat in during winter and reduce your heating load. These upgrades significantly boost home performance and property value.
Make sure windows and doors are sealed properly to prevent heat loss in winter and cool air loss in summer. Common areas for air leakage include gaps around window frames, door frames, electrical outlets, plumbing penetrations, and attic hatches. Sealing these gaps with caulk or weatherstripping is inexpensive and can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy costs.
Many Maryland residents qualify for free weatherization assistance. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) funds local community service organizations to help eligible low-income households conserve energy by weatherizing their houses. Priority is given to homeowners who are elderly, disabled, or have children. If you apply for the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP), you are automatically referred to the Weatherization Assistance Program.
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) also offers programs that can fix up and improve your home at no cost, including cleaning and tuning up your furnace, adding insulation to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, and providing energy-efficient light bulbs.
EmPOWER Maryland, managed by Maryland utilities, offers rebates and incentives for insulation and weatherization improvements. Contact your utility company to find out what rebates are currently available in your area. The CEA Loan Program can also provide 0% APR financing for the first 24 months on qualifying insulation and sealing improvements.
A home energy audit is the best first step before making insulation or sealing improvements. Professional auditors assess your home’s insulation, windows, and air sealing and provide specific, prioritized recommendations. All Maryland utilities offer free to low-cost audits under the EmPOWER Maryland Program.
Ready to Find Financial Help for Upgrades?
Rebates, tax credits, and 0% interest loans are available for Maryland residents making energy-efficient home improvements.