HES Home Energy Frequently Asked Questions.
Home Energy Services (HES) – FAQs
If your home feels drafty, has uneven temperatures, or your energy bills seem too high, you’re not alone. These are some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners across North Central Connecticut. Below, we break down what’s happening in your home—and how to fix it.
Comfort & High Energy Bill Questions
Why is my house drafty?
Drafts are usually caused by hidden air leaks in your attic, basement, walls, and around windows or doors. These gaps let outside air in year-round. Sealing them is one of the fastest ways to improve comfort.
Why are my energy bills so high?
High energy costs are often caused by air leaks, poor insulation, and leaky ductwork. When your home can’t hold temperature, your system runs longer and uses more energy.
Why are some rooms always colder or hotter than others?
Uneven temperatures are typically caused by insulation gaps, duct leakage, or airflow issues.
Why is my second floor hotter than the first?
Heat rises, and if your attic isn’t properly sealed and insulated, that heat builds up and affects the second floor.
Why is my basement cold in winter?
Basements often lose heat through foundation walls and air leaks. Without insulation and sealing, they tend to stay cold.
Why does my HVAC system run all the time?
Your system may be making up for energy loss in your home. Air leaks and insulation problems often cause longer run times.
Home Energy Assessments (Energy Audits)
What is a Home Energy Assessment?
It’s a full evaluation of your home’s energy performance, identifying where you’re losing energy and comfort.
What is a Home Energy Solutions (HES) assessment?
A utility-supported audit in Connecticut that includes testing, on-the-spot improvements, and a plan for upgrades.
What happens during an energy audit?
We assess insulation, air leakage, ductwork, and your HVAC system, often using blower door testing to find hidden issues.
How long does it take?
Most audits take 2–5 hours depending on your home.
Is it worth it?
Yes—it uncovers issues you can’t see and gives you a clear plan to improve comfort and efficiency.
Do I need an audit for rebates?
In most cases, yes. Eversource and Energize CT programs typically require one.
Will I get a plan after the audit?
Yes. You’ll receive clear recommendations, priorities, and available incentives.
Blower Door Testing & Your Home’s Structure
What is a blower door test?
A specialized fan is used to expose hidden air leaks throughout your home.
Why is it important?
It shows exactly where energy is being lost so improvements can be targeted.
Is it safe?
Yes—it’s non-invasive and widely used.
What is the building envelope?
It’s everything that separates your indoor space from the outside—walls, attic, windows, doors, etc.
What does “tightening the envelope” mean?
Sealing leaks and improving insulation so your home keeps heated and cooled air inside.
Insulation & Air Sealing
Is attic insulation worth it?
Yes—this is one of the most effective ways to improve comfort and reduce energy bills.
How do I know if I need more insulation?
Drafts, high energy bills, and uneven temperatures are all common signs.
Where are upgrades most needed?
Attics, basements, crawl spaces, and rim joists are typically the biggest problem areas.
Can insulation lower my energy bills?
Yes—it helps your home maintain temperature, reducing system run time.
Can air sealing improve comfort?
Absolutely—it reduces drafts and stabilizes temperatures.
Aeroseal® Duct Sealing
What is Aeroseal?
A process that seals leaks from inside your ductwork.
Does Aeroseal really work?
Yes—it’s proven to significantly reduce duct leakage.
How much air is lost through ducts?
Many homes lose 20–30% of their conditioned air before it reaches the rooms.
How do I know if my ducts are leaking?
Look for uneven temps, weak airflow, dust, or high bills.
Is duct sealing worth it?
In most cases, yes—especially if ducts run through attics or basements.
Is Aeroseal safe?
Yes—it uses a non-toxic, water-based sealant.
Will it improve comfort?
Yes—better airflow and more consistent temperatures.
Will it reduce energy costs?
It can significantly improve efficiency and reduce wasted energy.
HVAC Efficiency & Performance
What is the best way to improve home energy efficiency?
The biggest results come from combining air sealing, insulation, and duct improvements.
Should I upgrade insulation before replacing HVAC?
Often yes—reducing energy demand can lower system size and cost.
Can energy improvements extend HVAC life?
Yes—less strain means better long-term performance.
Can this help with humidity?
Yes—better airflow and sealing improve moisture control.
Rebates, Incentives & ROI
Are rebates available?
Yes—programs through Eversource and Energize CT offer incentives.
Does Homestead help with rebates?
Yes—we guide you through available programs.
What improvements give the best return?
Air sealing, insulation, and duct sealing consistently deliver strong results.
What kind of savings can I expect?
Many homeowners reduce energy waste by 20–40% with combined improvements.
Getting Started
Why choose Homestead Comfort?
We take a whole-home approach—testing, diagnosing, and improving what actually matters.
What makes your approach different?
We solve root causes, not just symptoms.
Do I need to leave my home?
No—most work is completed while you’re there.
How do I get started?
Schedule a Home Energy Assessment to see exactly what your home needs.