The Illinois Home Performance Approach
A Whole-House Approach
- Thermal envelope (outside walls, attic, foundation, insulation, and air leakage)
- Mechanical systems (heating/cooling, hot water, kitchen and bathroom ventilation)
- Appliances
- Lighting
- Occupant behavior
- Local climate
During an Illinois Home Performance upgrade, a Participating Contractor will first assess all of these features of your home and then make recommendations for improvment. Typical recommendations include:
- Sealing air leaks
- Adding insulation
- Cleaning/tuning or upgrading heating and cooling systems
- Sealing ductwork
For a more comprehensive list of common home performance problems and solutions, check out this helpful guide from the national Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® program.
One of the most common recommendations given after energy assessments is the sealing of air leaks in the home's walls, attic, windows, doors, and basement. The diagram on the right (click image to expand) illustrates common air leakage issues throughout a house; a house with these leaks might feel drafty or cause other systems, such as heating and air conditioning, to underperform no matter how efficient they may be.
The next most common recommendation is adding additional or upgrading existing insulation. For optimal energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. The diagram on the left illustrates the areas of your home that you should be thinking about when considering insulation. You may also find this resource on where to insulate and this guide to different types of insulation helpful.
Images courtesy of ENERGY STAR® and the U.S. Department of Energy
Ready to Get Started?
Find a contractor in your area who will perform a whole-home energy assessment and pinpoint your home's energy needs
Helpful Resources
- More information on home perfomance and energy upgrades can be found at the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR website.
- The ENERGY STAR website has great air sealing and insulation guides and helpful resources about choosing the right products and contractor.