Answers By: Kevin Hogan
Scroll UpI'm having a new home built. What should my builder do to make it more efficient?- John, Madison, WI
Tell your builder you want a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home!
Click to read the full answerWhat is a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Home?- Bill, Eau Claire, WI
A certified Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home meets construction standards and guidelines established by Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerWhat makes a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Home different from other homes?- Steven, Portage, WI
Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes are built following strict guidelines.
Click to read the full answerDoes it cost more to build a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Home?- Gina, Wausau, WI
In most cases, building a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home does not greatly increase the cost of construction.
Click to read the full answerWill I save money on my energy bills by building a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Home?- Joey, Mequon, WI
Yes, they are more energy efficient.
Click to read the full answerWhat should I do if I want to build a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Home?- Linda, Kenosha, WI
Find a builder that partners with the Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes Program.
Click to read the full answerI want to build a home that is green, what are the first steps I should take?- Fred, Milwaukee, WI
Tell your builder you want a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home!
Click to read the full answerHow can I reduce the energy use in my home?- Lisa, Green Bay, WI
There are a variety of things you can do to reduce the energy use in your home.
Click to read the full answerWhat is an energy evaluation?- Diane, Racine, WI
It's like a check up for your home.
Click to read the full answerWhat are the benefits of having an energy evaluation?- Stephen, Eau Claire, WI
There are many benefits to having an energy evaluation.
Click to read the full answerWho is eligible for an energy evaluation?- John , Spring Green, WI
Anyone can hire a consultant for an evaluation through Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerWhy is my electric bill so high?- Jodie, Brown Deer, WI
There are many reasons your electric bill may seem high. Read on for help.
Click to read the full answerWill hiring someone with an infrared camera help with high heating bills?- Garrett , Shorewood, WI
A professional might use an infrared camera to identify insulation or air leakage problems.
Click to read the full answerHow much energy can I save by replacing my windows?- Dave, West Allis, WI
You could save quite a bit depending upon what type of windows you currently have.
Click to read the full answerIs it worth it to replace my windows with more energy efficient ones?- Jessica, Milwaukee, WI
It can be worth it, but it might not be necessary.
Click to read the full answerWhat part of the house is the most important area to air seal?- Harry, Glendale, WI
The attic is the single most important area to air seal.
Click to read the full answerShould we be concerned about air sealing the wall that is attached to the garage?- Christopher, Brown Deer, WI
Yes, attached garages can be a major source of indoor air pollutants.
Click to read the full answerWhy do icicles form on my roof every winter?- Jaime, Cedarburg, WI
Icicles forming on your roof are often referred to as ice dams.
Click to read the full answerI notice that the snow melts off my roof faster than my neighbors. Is this a good thing?- Donna, Elkhorn, WI
This could mean that you don't have enough insulation in your attic.
Click to read the full answerI noticed mold on my bathroom ceiling. Where does this come from and how can I get rid of it?- Tim, Cudahy, WI
Mold and mildew may be signs of excess moisture.
Click to read the full answerWhy do my windows fog up in the winter?- Becky, Milwaukee, WI
High humidity may likely be the culprit.
Click to read the full answerWhy do my windows have condensation on them in the winter?- Nancy, Appleton, WI
High humidity may likely be the culprit.
Click to read the full answerI have a drafty living room. What can I do to fix that?- Frances, Mequon, WI
Air sealing can help stop drafts.
Click to read the full answerCan you suggest ways to make energy saving choices when I remodel?- Kelly, Waukesha, WI
There are many energy efficient options you can include!
Click to read the full answerDo I qualify for assistance programs if I switch to a natural gas heating system?- Mark, West Allis, WI
Eligibility is based on how the customer is currently heating their home.
Click to read the full answerAre there any assistance programs to make my home more energy efficient?- Peter, Milwaukee, WI
There are several assistance programs which may help you.
Click to read the full answerHow much energy can be saved by lowering the temperature on an indoor pool?- ken kozak, green bay wisconsin
You can save energy heating the pool and on ventilating the area.
Click to read the full answerI am buying a new house. How can I find out how much energy I should expect to use?- Abby , Edgerton, WI
A consultant partnering with Focus on Energy can help.
Click to read the full answerI need to re roof my house. Should I start from scratch or just add a new layer of shingles?- Luke, Waukesha, WI
It is best to have a professional assess the existing roof.
Click to read the full answerMost of our windows have mold. How can we solve this before replacing them?- Margie , Kohler, WI
Mold should not cause windows of this age to need replacement.
Click to read the full answerHow can I make my home (which has newspaper insulation) more energy efficient?- Marianne, Milwaukee, WI
If possible, you may want to remove the newspaper insulation.
Click to read the full answerCan you explain air flow in a house which has a basement, a first floor and a second floor?- Nancy , Wauwatosa, WI
Typically, air flows out of the top of a home.
Click to read the full answerI have a wood sided house that needs repairs and want to maximize energy efficiency.- Tom , Madison, WI
This is the perfect time to make energy improvements.
Click to read the full answerI am putting a steel roof on my home, what can I do to insulate the ceiling panels?- Lanny , Chippewa Falls, WI
The panels can be insulated, but make sure it is done right.
Click to read the full answerWould new windows stop the mold in the corners and on the window?- Marty , Green Bay, WI
New windows are only a temporary fix, this is a moisture problem.
Click to read the full answerWhat are cost comparisons for SIPS, ICFs, and spray foam?- Todd , Muskego, WI
The best way is to compare costs is to get quotes.
Click to read the full answerI'm building a house & need advice on windows; brands, reasonably priced, efficient?- Teana , Milwaukee, WI
Whatever you choose, make sure it is an ENERGY STAR!
Click to read the full answerHow do I find out which of my windows are the most drafty?- Kathrine , West Allis,WI
There are several easy ways to check air leaks around windows.
Click to read the full answerHow much will I save in energy costs if I insulate my foundation with 1" foam board?- Kathleen , Fond du Lac, WI
In general, the savings this provides is worth the investment.
Click to read the full answerWho do I contact to have an energy audit done on my home?- Kathy , Greenfield, WI
Contacting Focus on Energy will get you started.
Click to read the full answerDo you recommend leaving the pilot light on in a gas fireplace to keep birds and bugs out of the flue?- Larry , Neenah, WI
Consider installing a rain cap on the chimney flue.
Click to read the full answerCan I receive a Focus on Energy rebate for a new steel roof?- Laurie , Madison, WI
Focus does not offer a Cash-Back Reward on a steel roof.
Click to read the full answerWill UV blocking film on Western facing windows help keep the room cooler (and help with cooling costs)?- J, Madison, WI
UV blocking window film will help keep the room cooler.
Click to read the full answerWill tinting my windows reduce heat loss & heat gain on large, southern facing windows?- Brian , Beldenville, WI
Tinting windows will help reduce heat gain in the summer.
Click to read the full answerIs there an average energy cost per year per square foot for a ranch home in the Milwaukee area?- Reed , Wauwatosa, WI
There is not really an average, but an energy evaluation may help.
Click to read the full answerIs aluminum/reflective sheeting insulation a good type of insulation to install in my home?- Kay, Eau Claire, WI
Proper air sealing & insulation may be a better option.
Click to read the full answerI am insulating a new home with closed cell polyurethane. Is a geothermal heating system cost effective?- Jim , Racine, WI
In this case, geothermal may not be a cost-effective solution.
Click to read the full answerMy recessed lights say they are insulated but in winter cold air rushes in. Should I caulk them?- Jim , Cottage Grove, WI
You can caulk them, but you may need to do other things as well.
Click to read the full answerMy May therm usage is 464 for 2 appliances. My utility says this is not excessive. How can this be?- Patrick , Milwaukee, WI
Therm usage can vary by home size and energy usage.
Click to read the full answerI would like to retrofit my 25 year old home with foam insulation. Is it worth it?- Chad, Oconomowoc, WI
It depends on what area of the home you are want to insulate.
Click to read the full answerI have a problem with ice dams in the winter and water leaking in my family room.- Jim , Wind Lake, WI
An evaluation from a consultant would provide the best answers.
Click to read the full answerI have a problem keeping paint on the East side of my home. Would an energy audit help?- Joan , Brookfield, Wisconsin
An energy evaluation can definitely help.
Click to read the full answerIs reflective roofing designed primarily for buildings in sunnier locations than WI?- Barbara, La Crosse, WI
All locations can benefit from reduced solar gain.
Click to read the full answerCan I find out information on energy costs for a house before we purchase?- Tammy, Kenosha, WI
Yes, we have a couple of options for you.
Click to read the full answerHow do I get qualified as an existing home consultant?- Tamara , Sun Prairie, WI
Please call to apply.
Click to read the full answerMy mom is on a fixed income & does not qualify for tax credits. Are there other incentives?- Annie, Milwaukee, WI
There are state and Focus on Energy assistance programs available.
Click to read the full answerWhat is the most energy efficient new home design, floor plan & construction method to use?- Eric , Abrams, WI
A simple design/floor plan is the most energy efficient.
Click to read the full answerI am building a new home. Can we make it energy efficient without breaking the bank?- Lynn , Menomonee Falls, WI
There are many things you can do and Focus can help.
Click to read the full answerI have workshop with a loft on top. Would you recommend a soffit ridge vent system?- Richard , Eau Claire, WI
Your solution is a good start.
Click to read the full answerAre solar attic fans an option in WI or are they better suited for warmer climates?- Darren, Madison, WI
It is best to air seal the floor to attic area.
Click to read the full answerJust read #289 and was wondering, why isn't there more info on the insulating value of foil insulation?- Jack, Ashland, WI
Foil insulation is best suited for southern climates.
Click to read the full answerWe have heard that WE Energies does energy inspections & we may qualify for rebates.- Mary , Oostburg, WI
Focus on Energy can help with an energy evaluation.
Click to read the full answerDoes Focus require an energy audit on homes before distributing a rebate?- Tom, Melville, NY
Many rewards require an energy evaluation first.
Click to read the full answerHow can I find a firm in SE WI that replaces vintage windows with energy-efficient ones?- Mike , Whitefish Bay, WI
A little research will help.
Click to read the full answerDo I out fit the cabin with gas, or gas & electric, or just electric?- Terry , Downers Grove, IL
Generally speaking, natural gas is the least expensive fuel.
Click to read the full answerMy 7 year old house was built to code. Should I install additional insulation to achieve R-60?- Wayne , Onalaska, WI
Given a few assumptions, it may not be cost effective
Click to read the full answerWhat kind of energy savings can I expect by replacing a two pane window with a broken seal?- Michael , Lisbon, WI
A few calculations will help you out.
Click to read the full answerIs replacing your dark roof with a light one a good idea in WI?- Thelma , Columbus, WI
There can be benefits in all climates.
Click to read the full answerIs there a credit for a energy audit of my home?- Chester , Oak Creek, WI
There are no credits for the audit, but there are incentives for improvements.
Click to read the full answerDoes Focus on Energy have any programs that rate houses that are for sale?- Kathy , Fort Atkinson, WI
Focus can work with many homes at the time of sale or before.
Click to read the full answerWhat are the advantages/disadvantages of blown vs. batt insulation?- Randy , Brainerd, MN
Insulating the rafters in our northern climate can be tricky.
Click to read the full answerAny suggestions on how to decrease the air leakage around windows without replacing them?- Amy, Wauwatosa, WI
Please visit this Web site for more information.
Click to read the full answerI need more insulation in my attic. Does Focus on Energy have any incentives?- Jessie, Green Bay, WI
Focus on Energy does offer Cash-Back Rewards.
Click to read the full answerDo you know anything about an energy sheet used by NASA that you place in your attic to reduce bills?- Cletus, Altoona, WI
Proper air sealing & insulation may be a better option.
Click to read the full answerWe want to build a totally green home. How do we get a grant to do so?- Linda, Wausau, WI
Tell your builder you want a Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Home.
Click to read the full answerWhat happened to the home energy audit program?- Roger, Mequon, WI
Energy evaluations are offered. Visit, focusonenergy.com.
Click to read the full answerLooking for recommended energy efficient window blinds.- Joe, Phillips, WI
Window coverings may help you save money.
Click to read the full answerWhy doesn't our home air conditioning unit cool the second floor of the home?- Terri, Green Bay, WI
There may be several reasons.
Click to read the full answerIf we put 8" of icynene over our entire attic floor would we have a problem with trapping moisture?- James, Eau Claire, WI
No, moisture should pass through it.
Click to read the full answerI am concerned about heat loss to the attic. How much does an evaluation cost?- Gregg , De Forest, WI
Evaluations range in cost from about $300 to $400.
Click to read the full answerIs there a formula for quantifying the energy savings for upgrades with the REScheck program?- Joe, Tomah, WI
This formula will work for you; U value X Area (sq. ft.)
Click to read the full answerI would like to have my home audited for energy waste. Who does this and what is the cost?- Matt, Green Bay, WI
We can help you find a consultant!
Click to read the full answerHow important is the design pressure rating?- Ron , Madison, WI
It depends on where you live.
Click to read the full answerI have about 7" of insulation in my attic. How much more should be added?- Norm, Fremont, WI
Insulate attics to a minimum of R-50.
Click to read the full answerHow much impact does the loss of the argon have on the U values?- Gary, Reedsburg, WI
One percent of argon gas is typically “lost” every year.
Click to read the full answerIs there a rebate/incentive for wood burning fireplace inserts? I thought I saw a commercial.- Laurie, Green Bay, WI
No, but there may be a federal tax credit available.
Click to read the full answerHow can I make the ceilings in our home with vaulted ceilings and 8" joists more energy efficient?- Kevin, Waunakee, WI
One effective retrofit would be to install rigid foam board.
Click to read the full answerIs it worthwhile to insulate the roof of an unheated attached garage?- Owen, Milwaukee, WI
There are multiple reasons why you might be experiencing this.
Click to read the full answerIs steel/metal residential roofing really energy efficient? Is it more or less expensive?- Bill, West Milwaukee, WI
It depends on several factors, climate being one.
Click to read the full answerI live in a very old house. How can I cut my expensive winter heating bill?- Lenny, Stoughton, WI
We recommend an in-home evaluation.
Click to read the full answerShould I buy a house which has the forced-air gas-furnace in the attic?- Metje , Madison, WI
You may want to check with a reputable heating contractor.
Click to read the full answerHow much do you save by insulating and drywalling a basement versus just painting basement walls?- Kathleen, Fond du Lac, WI
There are no energy savings by painting the basement walls.
Click to read the full answerHow do you find out if there are rebates for replacing single pane windows from the 1950's?- Bryan, Grafton, WI
There may be tax credits available.
Click to read the full answerAdding insulation to our attic or replacing old inefficient windows?- Matt, Wauwatosa, WI
Generally insulation will be more cost effective.
Click to read the full answerI read that according to the US DOE, cleaning inside ducts is seldom necessary. Is this true or false? and why?- Wendy, Cedarburg, WI
This is dependent on many factors.
Click to read the full answerHow many inches of insulation are suggested for an attic in northern WI?- Gre, Brule, WI
It’s not a matter of how many inches. Read on.
Click to read the full answerShould I replace the insulation on our home's exterior wall outlets?- Lisa , Madison, WI
No, but there are other areas to address. Read on for more.
Click to read the full answerAre there tax incentives for replacing siding and sealing with Tyvek?- Carroll , Oak Creek, WI
Here are some Web sites you can visit for more info.
Click to read the full answerHow much will I save on utilities if I insulate my attic and walls?- Laura , Milwaukee, WI
There are many variables that determine the savings.
Click to read the full answerShould I insulate my unheated, attached garage?- Marty , Monroe, WI
It would provide minimal value in reducing your bill.
Click to read the full answerWould it be cost-effective to replace my 1939 home's original windows?- Gary , Allouez, WI
Having a rating conducted can verify the payback.
Click to read the full answerHow should I insulate the walls of my 1920's bungalow?- Maggie , Shorewood, WI
Done properly, insulating equates to energy savings.
Click to read the full answerShould we insulate the concrete walls of our crawl space?- Patrick and Bridget , Scott, WI
Yes, it would serve you best to do both.
Click to read the full answerWhat should I use to replace the worn out weather strip on my door?- Jim , Sheboygan Falls, WI
A door threshold or door sweep could work, read on.
Click to read the full answerHow can I get an energy audit?- Leah, Green Bay, WI
Contact Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerIs there a Cash-Back Reward for energy-efficient windows?- Mary, Oregon, WI
There may be tax credits available.
Click to read the full answerWe need to insulate and seal our home but don't know where to start.- Jeff , Kenosha, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerWhy install a water-resistant exterior covering before insulation?- Ted , De Pere, WI
Wind-driven rain could soak the cavity insulation.
Click to read the full answerAre there incentives for installing insulation in a home?- Faye , Tomahahawk, WI
Federal tax credits are available, read on for more information.
Click to read the full answerAre clothes dryer venting and duct systems included in energy evaluations?- John , Milwaukee, WI
Normally, yes.
Click to read the full answerDoes my utility perform energy audits for homes?- Roger, Kenosha, WI
Utilities do not normally perform energy audits.
Click to read the full answerWhat is the best way to clean clothes dryer vents and ducts?- John , Milwaukee, WI
Disconnect and disassemble the dryer vent to clean.
Click to read the full answerWho should I contact to get an energy audit?- Tom , Mequon, WI
Contact Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerHow do we get rid of moisture and mold on our windows?- Dawn, Appleton, WI
You may be eligible for assistance.
Click to read the full answerHow can I schedule a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation?- Brent , Glendale, WI
Contact Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerShould you insulate the wall of the roof in the attic and not just the floor?- Sue , Kewaunee, WI
Not if the “wall” is unconditioned on both sides.
Click to read the full answerCan you help me compare different types of foam insulation?- Erich , Sun Prairie WI
When installed properly, both adhere.
Click to read the full answerAre the rebate programs predicated to cover energy audits for WI homes?- Peter , Onalaska, WI
Yes, visit Focus on Energy to find a partnering consultant.
Click to read the full answerWhat are the federal insulation standards to receive tax credits?- Bill , Baraboo, WI
Visit the ENERGY STAR Web site to learn more.
Click to read the full answerI need someone to look at my house to tell me how to save on utilities.- Dave , Berlin,WI
Find out more about the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program.
Click to read the full answerWhat incentives are available for residential energy upgrades?- Sharon, Peshtigo, WI
Cash-Back Rewards and federal tax credits are available.
Click to read the full answerIs there a program to help with the cost of energy efficient windows?- Mary Lou, Washburn, WI
There are no state income tax incentives for windows.
Click to read the full answerAre there assistance programs to help pay for insulating my home?- Judy , Milwaukee, WI
There are programs, and the law protects your right to install renewable energy.
Click to read the full answerAre there any organizations that provide free energy efficient home designs?- Kim, St. Croix Falls, WI
I would suggest you conduct some research. Read on.
Click to read the full answerHow many inches of insulation is needed to achieve an R-value of 49?- Margarret, Pewaukee, WI
16” – 18” would provide an R-49 value.
Click to read the full answerIs denim insulation more "green" than fiberglass insulation?- Mary , Castroville, CA
Yes, it’s considerably more “green."
Click to read the full answerHow much does a home energy evaluation cost?- Joan, Madison, WI
The cost varies. Read on for more.
Click to read the full answerWhat are the R-value recommendations for wall and ceiling insulation?- Wally , Marinette, WI
The U.S. Department of Energy is a good resource for this question!
Click to read the full answerHow can I get rid of condensation in my five-year-old house?- Brian , Waunakee, WI
There are a variety of options. Read on for more.
Click to read the full answerHow can we find out why ice collects on the inside of our windows?- Karen , Green Bay, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerShould I remove old insulation and air seal before adding new insulation?- Gary , Reedsburg,WI
The short answer is yes. Read on for more.
Click to read the full answerHow do I get an energy audit for my condo?- Dave , Racine, WI
Contact Focus on Energy.
Click to read the full answerMy kitchen vent allows cold air to leak in. How can I remedy this?- Luke , Waukesha, WI
Replace the passive flap. Read on for more.
Click to read the full answerWhat would the specs be to encapsulate a crawlspace?- Kelly , Appleton, WI
It depends on the crawlspace type.
Click to read the full answerMy home does not hold its temperature before the furnace runs again.- Dave , Milwaukee, WI
It can be influenced by the size/shape/height of your home.
Click to read the full answerWhat should I do about my old farmhouse with no insulation?- Ron , Oconomowoc, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® evaluation.
Click to read the full answerHow much energy is wasted with an unused fireplace with the damper closed?- Brad , Fox Point, WI
It depends on how well the damper seals.
Click to read the full answerDo low-e window films actually reduce heat loss/gain?- Brad , Fox Point, WI
There is not much information currently.
Click to read the full answerHow do I become a home energy auditor for Focus on Energy?- Gena , De Pere,WI
It depends on your experience and background.
Click to read the full answerMy house does not hold heat. Do you have any suggestions?- Dave , Milwaukee, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerCan I get help with energy improvements?- Susan , Eau Claire, WI
Assistance programs are available!
Click to read the full answerCould you please tell me more about air sealing?- James , Stoughton, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerHow do I tell if my house is energy efficient?- Glen , Green Bay, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerCan nonprofits do residential building energy audits?- Lucy , La Crosse, WI
Get involved with Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®
Click to read the full answerIs there a program for window replacement?- Steven, Millwaukee, WI
There may be federal tax credits available.
Click to read the full answerWhat is the recommended R-value for attic insulation?- Georgia, Wauwatosa, WI
Visit the ENERGY STAR Web site to learn more.
Click to read the full answerWhat energy-efficiency rating is recommended for window replacements?- Sie, Oak Creek WI
Lower U factors equate to better efficiency.
Click to read the full answerDo chimney balloons cause condensation?- John, Kilmarnock Ayrshire UK
There are a couple of ways to answer this, read on for both
Click to read the full answerCan someone come and check the energy efficiency of our home?- Linda , Sussex,WI
Have home evaluation through Home Performance with ENERGY STAR.
Click to read the full answerIs there assistance for replacement windows in an income-eligible residence?- Judy, Brodhead, WI
Possibly, please read on for further details.
Click to read the full answerWhat should we look for in urethane insulation?- Nick , MIlwaukee, WI
Yes, please read on.
Click to read the full answerHow much energy would an extra inch of insulation save?- Barbara, Reedsburg, WI
Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.
Click to read the full answerCan rewiring my home save money on my utility bill?- Mary , Bangor, WI
No, it won’t. Read on for other ways you can save.
Click to read the full answerWhat should I do about mold in my attic?- Lester , Coleman, WI
This Web site tells about mold and remedies to treat it.
Click to read the full answerAre there incentives for building an energy-efficient home?- Mike, Greenville, WI
Yes, there are several financial incentives.
Click to read the full answerIs there assistance available to assist home owners with high radon levels?- Brenda , Eau Claire, WI
Not from Focus but view this Web site for more information.
Click to read the full answerShould I turn off the pilot light on my gas fireplace in the summer?- Kevin, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
It depends--read on for more info!
Click to read the full answerWhat is the program that helps make a house more energy efficient?- Suzanne, Menomonie, WI
Work with a Home Performance professional in your area!
Click to read the full answer