Elmhurst College Finding More Ways to Go Green with Home Energy Assessment

Elmhurst College went green earlier this month, with home energy assessments for 16 of its campus residences.

The assessments, offered by ComEd and Nicor, go a long way in the effort to reduce energy use and the impact on the environment. The event coincided with Earth Day 2013; students, faculty and members of the Elmhurst College Sustainability Committee were in attendance.

Nicor and ComEd's energy efficiency programs are designed to help customers take control of their energy consumption through knowledge, access to online resources and incentives on energy-efficient technologies. 

But it's not just institutional organizations that can benefit. Certified energy advisors are available to come to any residence in Elmhurst and, for a nominal fee, conduct a 2-hour assessment. Elmhurst 1st Ward Alderman Diane Gutenkauf recently opened her home to residents interested in a home energy assessment, as well.

Energy advisors are trained to use a variety of tools, such as an infrared camera, flue gas analyzer, boroscope, carbon monoxide detector and pressure sensors to identify possible air sealing opportunities, insulation deficiencies or unsafe conditions.

At the conclusion of the assessment, homeowners receive a Home Energy Savings report that details customized energy-efficiency recommendations for weatherization projects, along with cost and rebate information for each.

Those who decide to complete the recommended weatherization projects, simply sign the proposal and return it to the energy adviser at the conclusion of the assessment, or fax it to (630) 705-0541. A participating certified contractor will be assigned to complete the energy-efficiency improvements in the home.

Upon completion of the work, the contractor will deduct the applicable instant rebates from the final invoice, and homeowners will receive an instant rebate of
 70 percent off, up to $1,750, by completing the recommend weatherization work.

For more information, call (877) 821-9988, or visit NicorGasRebates.com and ComEd.com/HomeSavings.