Q: How does insulation work? Insulation slows the transfer of heat to and from a house, so the heating and cooling system runs less often. Click here for more information.
Q: What does “R-Value” mean? R-value is the resistance to heat transfer of a particular building material. Click here for more information.
Q: How much money can insulation save me? We utilize a home energy calculator from the U.S. Department of Energy that takes into account how much insulation is already in the house, how much air leaks out of the house, and how well-sealed the doors and windows are. Also, we factor in local energy costs to estimate how much energy and money could be saved by adding more insulation. Click here for the Home Energy Calculator.
Q: Why does May Energy Solutions prefer cellulose insulation? Cellulose has many advantages over other types of insulation: energy efficiency, environmental benefits, pest resistance, flame resistance, mold resistance, and moisture balancing.
1) High Coverage – When properly installed, cellulose insulation typically performs better because it completely surrounds the wires, pipes, and outlet boxes that are typically found in house walls. 2) Air Flow Resistance – Cellulose typically performs better because of its resistance to air flow. We can show you a demonstration of how resistance to air-flow cellulose insulation has upon request. 3) Eco-Friendly – Cellulose is almost entirely made from recycled paper. It is generally considered the greenest insulation in terms of the lower amounts of energy and greenhouse gases generated in its production. 4) Safe for Humans and Pets – Cellulose insulation is treated with borate which is non-toxic to humans and pets but is toxic to insects. Also, it is not an attractive nesting material for rodents or pests. 5) Fire and Mold Resistance – Borate treatment makes cellulose insulation fire resistant and mold resistant. 6) Moisture Balancing – Cellulose has moisture balancing capabilities not provided by most other types of insulation. Humidity can be absorbed and released by cellulose insulation instead of flowing directly into or out of the house.
Q: What is a home energy evaluation? How does it help me? Air leakage accounts for a large part of the energy lost from a house. During a home energy evaluation a fan blows air into the house. Then technicians can evaluate how much air is leaking from the house. Technicians will also test the heating and air conditioning. systems. Lastly, technicians will use a thermal imaging camera to evaluate the existing insulation in the walls and attic. After the home energy evaluation is completed, our technicians will provide homeowners with recommendations to improve the insulation and energy efficiency of their house.
Q: Are May Energy Solution's technicians well-trained and qualified? Yes. Our technicians are certified by the Building Performance Institute in Building Analysis, Air Filtration and Duct Leakage to perform home energy evaluations.