The Green Corner - Janice Kurkoski

Back in January I went to the Warwick school to see how the gym roof was
doing. Some of you may recall the prominent ice dams on the gym, the
peculiar snowmelt pattern, and how uncomfortably cold it was in the gym
in past winters.  All those problems disappeared this winter, thanks to
the air-sealing and insulation work that was done over the summer in
combination with the re-shingling job (the main building still has
similar issues that can hopefully be addressed in the future).

For many folks, the reluctance to fix energy related problems in their
own homes is the cost, yet cost savings is also one of the motivating
forces, along with occupant comfort and health, and building longevity.
The good news is that there are many programs out there to help pay for
improvements such as attic, wall, and basement insulation and
air-sealing, solar hot-water systems, air-source heat pumps, heat pump
water heaters, digital and Wi-Fi thermostats, high efficiency heating
systems, Energy Star replacement windows (for single pane windows only),
and 0% interest loans to help pay your share if the cost is not
completely covered. There are even grants to help address asbestos and
knob & tube wiring issues or install high-efficiency wood boilers.
Rebates from $1000 - $4000 for early boiler or furnace replacement have
been rolled out again - for a limited time! It all starts with a call to
MASS Save. If a household falls under certain income guidelines, then
some of the above-mentioned items are actually free. Even more help is
available through Community Action (413-774-2310) or from Franklin
County Home Care (413-773-5555). 

This summer, Warwick will begin to use some of its Green Communities
Grant ($137,850) to make similar improvements in our own town buildings,
thereby reducing future energy costs for all taxpayers.

So as the snow banks give way to snow drops and crocus, and memories of
frigid temperatures and ice dams fade, now is the perfect time to "put
your own house in order". Give MASS Save a call (866-527-7283) - have
your electric account # handy, or check them out on-line.  You can even
have a new audit every year. It's your own money that drives this
program, gleaned from your utility bills, so why not spend it - on
yourself and on those who will live in your home down the road. Then you
might actually look forward to next winter!