Insulation vs AC - HomeModders.com

rampant · 08-06-2010, 05:30 PM

So, I have a small (1000 sq ft) home built in 1954. My power+heat bills are around $240 a month, which is rather high for the area.

I don't think there is insulation much in the walls, and I am considering replacing the AC/Heat system.

Just wondering from those who have done it what sort of savings you actually got and which is the better way to go.

Also, systems that qualify for the tax credit (AC/heat), lowest quote was 5700 to install 80% furnace and 15seer AC, which seems high.

briansol · 08-09-2010, 04:40 PM

Depending on your current unit, it may be the smart thing to replace first. That said, even a good unit will still have all of its product leaked through poorly insulated walls.

The credit is worth up to $1500 if the unit you use qualifies. But that also covers the TOTAL credit.
Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR

Your best bet is to do the unit this year while the credit is still in effect, and do insulation later on when you have the cash /etc.

Depending on where you are located, $240 seems a bit high to me. Although, it sounds like your heat is on a monthly plan (12 month spread).

chestercheeto48 · 08-12-2010, 01:38 PM

Have you had an insulation company come out and check your house? If not start with a company that will do a free estimate. If they say your fine then look into replacing your unit. You would be surprised how much you are losing through the ceiling if it does not have adequate insulation up there. The walls help but not as much as the ceiling. I am also assuming you are practicing good energy efficiency buy having a programmable thermostat, closing/opening blinds when needed an using ceiling fans if you have them. If not look into those things as well.

The wife and I saved a ton of money last January by having another 18 inches of blown in insulation added to our attic. We instantly noticed the difference in temp and in the bill.

RedZ71 · 10-18-2010, 10:41 PM

does it have to be 18 inches thick? can it be 18 inches worth compressed down into the rafters? i ask, because id really like to lay down some plywood decking in my attic and make some storage area where ill be safe from punching thru.

briansol · 10-18-2010, 11:57 PM

Insulation works best when its NOT stuffed. Its not the fiber itself, but rather the air within the insulation that actually provides the insulation.

08-06-2010, 05:30 PM	#1
rampant Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 1 Rep Power: 0	Insulation vs AC So, I have a small (1000 sq ft) home built in 1954. My power+heat bills are around $240 a month, which is rather high for the area. I don't think there is insulation much in the walls, and I am considering replacing the AC/Heat system. Just wondering from those who have done it what sort of savings you actually got and which is the better way to go. Also, systems that qualify for the tax credit (AC/heat), lowest quote was 5700 to install 80% furnace and 15seer AC, which seems high.

08-09-2010, 04:40 PM	#2
briansol Administrator Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Central CT Age: 31 Posts: 499 Rep Power: 10	Depending on your current unit, it may be the smart thing to replace first. That said, even a good unit will still have all of its product leaked through poorly insulated walls. The credit is worth up to $1500 if the unit you use qualifies. But that also covers the TOTAL credit. Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR Your best bet is to do the unit this year while the credit is still in effect, and do insulation later on when you have the cash /etc. Depending on where you are located, $240 seems a bit high to me. Although, it sounds like your heat is on a monthly plan (12 month spread). __________________ 1997 2050sqft Split Level

10-18-2010, 11:57 PM	#5
briansol Administrator Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Central CT Age: 31 Posts: 499 Rep Power: 10	Insulation works best when its NOT stuffed. Its not the fiber itself, but rather the air within the insulation that actually provides the insulation. __________________ 1997 2050sqft Split Level

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08-12-2010, 01:38 PM	#3
chestercheeto48 Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 73 Rep Power: 5	Have you had an insulation company come out and check your house? If not start with a company that will do a free estimate. If they say your fine then look into replacing your unit. You would be surprised how much you are losing through the ceiling if it does not have adequate insulation up there. The walls help but not as much as the ceiling. I am also assuming you are practicing good energy efficiency buy having a programmable thermostat, closing/opening blinds when needed an using ceiling fans if you have them. If not look into those things as well. The wife and I saved a ton of money last January by having another 18 inches of blown in insulation added to our attic. We instantly noticed the difference in temp and in the bill.

10-18-2010, 10:41 PM	#4
RedZ71 Junior Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 4 Rep Power: 0	does it have to be 18 inches thick? can it be 18 inches worth compressed down into the rafters? i ask, because id really like to lay down some plywood decking in my attic and make some storage area where ill be safe from punching thru.