Recently, the Newton Youth Energizers, a Newton North High School team working on the Mass Energize Youth Climate Solutions Challenge, were graciously welcomed by Rosemarie Mullin and Tom Friedman to learn from attending their Mass Save home energy assessment in person. This assessment was performed by HomeWorks 
Energy, a partner of Green Newton.
Seeing a home energy assessment firsthand provided valuable information to the team. The assessment started with an explanation of how home energy assessments support climate action by decreasing energy consumption and increasing efficiency. The Energy Specialist checked first for safe combustion levels near all gas-fueled appliances. Then as part of the assessment, they thoroughly examined the house from the basement to the attic and checked rooms with a thermal imaging camera to identify air leaks. All of this is done while providing recommendations to maximize the home’s energy efficiency.
One student noted, “Understanding how a house uses energy showed me how small efficiency choices can really add up to meaningful climate action.”
After attending this valuable educational opportunity, something that surprised the group was that home energy assessments go beyond the simple weatherization check. There is a central focus on safety regarding the internal levels of carbon monoxide—an odorless gas that can be deadly if not discovered. Going forward, the students hope to use their newfound knowledge and personal experience to speak more insightfully of what home energy assessments will look like for residents.
Many of Newton’s homes are older with insufficient insulation and are in need of an assessment for improved energy efficiency. Energy assessments are entirely no-cost, and you will be guided for the entire session by a professional, someone who can answer questions and provide effective, energy-saving solutions.
Home energy assessments are easy, beginner-friendly steps to reduce your–and the community of Newton’s–environmental impact. After an assessment, you will receive a customized home energy report that identifies how to maximize energy efficiency for your home along with any rebates and incentives for the homeowner. This may include further weatherization or appliance upgrades, and even zero percent loans. The benefits of implementing these solutions in your home include:
- lowering heating and cooling expenses by up to 15%,
- decreasing drafts for improved personal comfort and humidity,
- minimizing outside noise for a more peaceful indoor environment, and
- reducing the chance of ice dams to protect your home from potential damage.
In addition to supporting the local Newton Youth Energizers’ goal of getting one hundred Newton homes to schedule an assessment, these are benefits for you!
Get started by emailing newtonyouthenergizers@gmail.com or complete this form to schedule a home energy assessment today!
P.S. All people who complete the form to schedule a home energy assessment and/or refer a friend during the month of February, will be automatically entered into a raffle for a $25 Cabot’s Ice Cream & Restaurant gift card!
Newton North “Newton Youth Energizers” are comprised of students Alicia, Cindy, Ella, Kendall, Leyla, Maddy, Nevie, and Theo.