News Articles

Open cell vs. closed cell spray foam: Choosing the right insulation for your needs

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:34:04 +0000

Spray foam insulation has become a popular choice for its energy-saving properties, durability and versatility. When choosing between open cell and closed cell spray foam, understanding their key differences can help you select the right type for your project.

Open cell spray foam is composed of cells that are not fully encapsulated, creating small pockets of air throughout the material. This gives it a soft, spongy texture and allows it to expand significantly when applied. Closed cell spray foam, on the other hand, is made of tightly packed, fully encapsulated cells. This results in a rigid and dense structure, making it stronger and more durable than its open-cell counterpart.

Jim Stroehlien from Primetime Energy Services states, “Although we stock both open cell and closed cell spray foam, we recommend 2 lb. closed cell for the Western New York area.”

The insulating ability of spray foam, measured by its R-value, varies between the two types. Open cell foam typically has an R-value of 3.5 to 3.7 per inch, which is suitable for interior spaces where extreme insulation isn’t required. Closed cell foam boasts a much higher R-value of 6.0 to 7.0 per inch, making it ideal for thermal boundry applications or areas of the house that are exterior facing where maximum thermal resistance is essential.

Moisture resistance is another critical factor to consider. Open cell foam is breathable, allowing vapor to pass through, which makes it a good choice for interior walls where breathability is important. However, it can absorb moisture and may require a vapor barrier in humid or wet environments. Closed cell foam acts as a natural vapor barrier due to its dense structure, making it a better option for areas prone to moisture, such as basements, crawl spaces or exterior walls.

When it comes to air sealing and noise reduction, both types of spray foam perform well but in different ways. Open cell foam excels at soundproofing, as its porous structure absorbs sound waves effectively. Closed cell foam, while also a good air sealant, is less effective at reducing noise because of its rigid and dense structure.

Kristen Cassidy, Primetime Energy Services manager, explains: “2 lb. closed cell shines where an air barrier is needed at a minimum of 1”. Open cell will never have that same effect.”

The strength and durability of closed cell foam make it a preferred choice for applications where added structural support is needed. It can reinforce walls and roofs, making it ideal for industrial or heavy-duty environments. Open cell foam, being softer and less dense, is not suitable for structural reinforcement and is more vulnerable to damage in high-impact areas.

Cost is another key consideration. Open cell foam is generally more affordable due to its lower material costs. This makes it an attractive option for homeowners looking to insulate on a budget. Closed cell foam, while more expensive upfront, offers superior performance and energy savings over time, which can offset its initial cost.

Both types of foam contribute to energy efficiency, but their environmental impact varies. However, it may require additional insulation in extreme climates to achieve optimal performance. Closed cell foam provides maximum insulation efficiency, reducing energy consumption in harsh environments.

In summary, the choice between open cell and closed cell spray foam depends on the specific needs of your project. Open cell foam is ideal for interior sound proofing walls, ceilings and soundproofing, offering flexibility and affordability. Closed cell foam is better suited for exterior walls, attics, crawl spaces, basements and areas requiring structural support or high moisture resistance.

To ensure you make the right choice for your home or business, consult with an insulation expert. For professional advice and installation, contact PrimeTime Energy Services in Depew at (716) 685-4331. Start enhancing your space’s energy efficiency and comfort today!

Be Proactive to Avoid Ice Dams this Winter

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:26:19 +0000

Ice dams are a common winter hazard that can lead to extensive damage for homeowners, especially in regions with heavy snowfall. These dams form along roof edges, creating a barrier that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. As water accumulates behind the dam, it can seep under shingles and leak into the house. This could cause costly damages to walls, ceilings, insulation, gutter and soffits.

Ice dams form due to a combination of snow, attic heat, and temperature fluctuations. When snow accumulates on a roof and is warmed unevenly by escaping heat from the attic, it begins to melt. The melted snow flows down toward the eaves, where the roof is colder, and refreezes, forming a ridge of ice. As the process repeats, the ice builds up, creating a dam that traps more melting snow. Hal from Rooftek Roofers states “This trapped water can then leak through the roof, causing significant issues. Several factors contribute to ice dam formation, including poor attic insulation, inadequate ventilation, and fluctuating winter temperatures.”

This moisture also creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks. Additionally, the repeated freeze-thaw cycle can warp or crack roofing materials, interior walls and ceilings leading to structural damage over time. Beyond these physical impacts, ice dams also disrupt a home’s energy efficiency, as compromised insulation increases heating costs.

Preventing ice dams involves a few key strategies that address heat loss and ensure consistent roof temperatures. The first step is to improve attic insulation to get an evaluation from Primetime Energy Services. By reducing the heat escaping from the house, plus proper ventilation, insulation helps keep the roof at a temperature similar to the outdoor climate and minimizes snowmelt that would normally contribute to ice dams. Insulation should be evenly distributed throughout the attic floor to prevent warm spots that could cause uneven melting.

Proper ventilation in the attic is also essential. Nick Cappelli, from Primetime Energy Services says, “Roof and soffit vents promote air circulation, maintaining a consistent temperature and preventing warm air from accumulating. Ideally, the attic temperature should stay close to that of the outside air. Consulting a professional can help identify the best ventilation strategy for your particular home.”

Sealing air leaks in the attic further reduces the risk of ice dams. Gaps around pipes, vents, chimneys, and other openings allow warm air to escape, so using caulking or weather stripping to close these gaps can prevent excess heat transfer. Reducing warm air flow into the attic keeps the roof cooler and reduces the amount of melting snow.

Another temporary measure to prevent ice dams is the installation of roof heat cables, or de-icing cables, along the eaves. These cables warm the edge of the roof, preventing ice buildup. However, this is considered to be a fix to the ice issues, but not a solution to the root problem causing the ice.

After heavy snowfall, removing snow from the roof can also help prevent ice dam formation. Using a roof rake, homeowners can clear snow from the roof, reducing the amount of snow that could melt and refreeze at the eaves. When removing snow, it’s important to avoid scraping the shingles to prevent damage. Staying on the ground rather than climbing onto the roof is also safer.

While some of these measures, like clearing snow or sealing small air leaks, can be done independently, other steps, like insulating and ventilating the attic effectively, require professional expertise. A roofing specialist such as Hometek Roofing can inspect your roof and offer recommendations for repairs or modifications that may help prevent future ice dams.

Preventing ice dams not only protects your home from water damage and mold growth but also improves your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By taking steps to enhance insulation, seal leaks, and ensure proper ventilation, homeowners can reduce the risk of ice dams and enjoy a safer, warmer winter. Contact Primetime Energy Services for an inspection at 716-685-4331 or email at info@primetime-energy.com.

Preparing HVAC systems for the winter months

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 15:49:37 +0000

Preparing your HVAC system for winter is essential to ensure a warm, comfortable home while keeping energy costs in check. As temperatures drop, start by scheduling a professional HVAC inspection. Homeowners can also perform simple preparations for the winter months to ensure systems are running properly.

Changing your air filters is a key step to make sure your HVAC equipment is efficient for the winter. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and wear on the system. Boomer Regian, a Primetime Energy project manager, recommends monthly filter upgrades stating, “Replacing filters regularly also improves indoor air quality, which is important when windows remain closed during winter.” Upgraded filters can last anywhere from one to three months.

Testing your thermostat helps confirm that it is calibrated and ready for winter settings. If you haven’t upgraded to a programmable thermostat, consider doing so. Programmable models allow you to schedule temperature changes, saving energy by adjusting the heat when you’re asleep or away.

It’s also important to check vents and registers throughout your home. Make sure they are open and free from any obstructions, such as furniture or curtains, to maintain proper airflow. Unobstructed vents allow warm air to flow more freely, helping each room reach and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Another important step is to ensure proper insulation and sealing. Insulating your home and sealing any gaps around windows, doors or other areas where heat might escape will help keep the warm air inside. This not only keeps your home cozier but also prevents your HVAC system from overworking, as well as saving on costly utility bills.

Safety is key when using a gas furnace, so be sure to check carbon monoxide detectors or install them if you don’t already have them. This invisible, odorless gas can be dangerous, and detectors are essential for a safe winter. Test the devices and replace batteries to make sure they’re functioning correctly.

For homes with an outdoor HVAC unit or heat pump, keep the area around the unit clear of debris. A clear outdoor unit ensures efficient airflow, which is essential for proper operation.

Finally, if your HVAC system is aging or frequently experiencing problems, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. Eric Fischer, a project manager from Primetime Energy Services, is quoted saying “Modern systems often come with energy-saving features and might even qualify for rebates or incentives, making the investment worthwhile for long-term comfort and savings.”

Taking these steps to prepare your HVAC system can make a huge difference in maintaining warmth and comfort while keeping your energy costs manageable. For additional help with maintenance or system upgrades, reach out to a professional such as Lagana Plumbing and Heating or Primetime Energy Services in Depew at (716) 685-4331.

Is your home ready for the long winter months ahead?

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:01:56 +0000

Like it or not, the long, cold winter months are right around the corner. Is your house ready to take on the elements?

“The overall energy efficiency of the home is crucial, especially when entering the winter season,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services, 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew. “The sooner any needed work is completed, the sooner the homeowner will begin realizing both the financial and comfort benefits. For example, a home insulated with cellulose or spray foam and properly sized heating equipment has been proven to save an estimated 20 to 30 percent off utility bills.”

“Prime Time Energy Services offers a whole house approach to energy efficiency and comfort level improvements,” added co-owner Nick Cappelli. “Instead of going into the winter months without a plan of attack, have a free energy assessment completed on your home to pinpoint any areas of concern. We can provide an energy assessment with no obligation and no cost.”

Prime Time Energy has a local team of skilled insulation and HVAC technicians, so your work is never outsourced. The company is a Gold Star BPI contractor with the ability to work with all residential NYSERDA programs. Funding is readily available to assist in these type of improvements whether it be a low-interest loan or a subsidy/grant. In most cases, the savings created by the job could be more than the payment itself.

Eligible program services include HVAC, spray foam insulation, cellulose insulation, windows and doors. For more information, please contact Prime Time Energy Services at 685-4331 or info@primetime-energy.com. Additional information can be found by following us on Facebook.

A home’s style can contribute to it’s overall energy efficiency … or inefficiency

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:01:44 +0000

Colonial, split level, ranch, cape. These are just some of the popular housing styles you’ll find around Western New York. But do you know which one of these styles is typically least energy efficient?

If you guessed the Cape Cod style, you’re correct! And if you’re currently living in a Cape Cod, don’t lose hope as there are many ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

During warmer months, Cape Cod homes are notorious for being very hot upstairs due to a lack of insulation or incorrectly installed insulation. An under-insulated or improperly insulated cape is quite possibly the most inefficient home on the market. This is due to the upper sloped ceilings and the exposed knee wall crawls collecting heat in the summertime. Without a proper insulation barrier, the heat transfers easily to the upper floor of the home. These issues can be easily resolved by installing a proper insulation barrier and proper ventilation.

“There are several ways to set up an insulation barrier in a Cape Cod-style home,” said Nick Cappelli, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services in Depew. “Additionally, every homeowners’ needs and wants are different. We recommend either making the crawl spaces a conditioned space within the building envelope, or to make it an unconditioned space outside the envelope. If an unconditioned space is what fits your family best, proper ventilation needs to be present in order to exhaust the summertime heat buildup. Otherwise, the home will experience a drastic reduction in the lifespan of the roofing shingles. In many cases the heat buildup will actually deteriorate the shingles and cause them to fail within 10 years.”

There are many instances where insulating the home is a far better choice than installing air conditioning. This is usually a smarter approach since the benefits will be realized not only in the summer, but also during the winter months.

Prime Time Energy Services is located at 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please contact Prime Time owners Jim Stroehlein or Nick Cappelli at 685-4331 or email info@primetime-energy.com today.You can also visit www.primetime-energy.com, or follow Prime Time Energy Services on Facebook for frequent updates.

What levels of efficiency should accompany your heating and air conditioning units?

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:01:31 +0000

While the weather in Western New York can be unpredictable at times, there’s no doubt that we truly get to experience all four seasons and the weather patterns that accompany them. And when it comes to heating and cooling systems, homeowners are often left with a fairly complicated question: high-efficiency, low efficiency or something in between?

If you were living in the near constant heat of Miami or Dallas, for example, you would likely purchase a high-efficiency air conditioning unit and a lower-efficiency heating unit based on the simple fact that the air conditioning unit will likely be running year round. But what about a climate such as Western New York, where temperatures can fluctuate pretty dramatically, in some cases day to day or even hour to hour?

“In Western New York, we recommend a high-efficiency furnace and a middle-of-the-road efficiency central air conditioning system,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services in Depew. “Some homeowners will ask us for an extremely high-efficient air conditioning system, but after I explain our thoughts on this, most will understand they do not need the added expense of a high-efficient unit.”

The extra costs incurred by purchasing a high-efficiency air conditioning high-efficiency air conditioning unit will not be realized through the savings it generates. This is due mainly to the short amount of time the unit will be used in the Western New York climate.

“Air conditioning systems carry a SEER rating to show the level of efficiency the system is designed to produce,” added Nick Cappelli, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “Regardless of the SEER rating, the systems will cool your home in the same fashion and create the same amount of cooling. There is little need to spend an extra $1,000 to buy a 16 SEER air conditioner when it will only be running for a very short period during the year. The system we recommend to local homeowners will consist of a middle of the road central air conditioning system. This is not a low-efficiency nor a high-efficiency unit — it is a compromise of the two.

“Locally, studies have shown that money is much better spent on a high-efficiency furnace rather than an air conditioning unit. While the AC will only be running for a short period of time, the furnace will be pulling double time. The furnace should be at least a high-efficient 96 percent two-stage unit. The extra money spent on the furnace will provide added savings over the life of the unit, especially while running overtime when compared to the cooling system.”

The combination of a medium-efficiency air conditioning unit and high-efficiency furnace has proven to be the best savings generator for cost-conscious Western New Yorkers.

“We also feel very strongly that the branding of the system should be a reputable manufacturer such as Rheem or a direct competitor,” said Stroehlein. “Please, do not try to save money by going with a cheap off-brand when it comes to heating and cooling your home. It will not pay off in the long run.”

Prime Time Energy Services is located at 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew. For more information, please call 685-4331 or email info@primetime-energy.com today for a free consultation for your high-efficiency air conditioning, or visit www.primetime-energy.com.

Replacing your home’s windows is not always cut and dry

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:01:20 +0000

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your home and make it more energy efficient in the process, you may want to start with your windows. But before you sign on the dotted line with a contractor, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you’re making a wise investment.

First, be aware that window quality and installation techniques differ from contractor to contractor. For example, it will pay to know the difference between dual pane, triple pane, argon gas and Low-E glass. What is going to be the best combination for your specific situation?

“We have inspected many homes over the years only to find numerous examples of improperly installed windows that result in increased air leakage,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services in Depew. “While the windows may look nice to the untrained eye, the energy efficiency of the install may be lacking. One skipped step by the installers can cause the new windows to be less efficient than the original ones they were replacing.”

The best advice for homeowners is to educate themselves regarding window quality and price differences before signing a contract. Helpful information on replacement windows can be found on the Prime Time Energy Services website at www.primetime-energy.com.

“There is a big sway in prices when shopping for windows, and we prefer a one-price complete install,” added Nick Cappelli, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “Some companies are out there doing a hard sell for triple pane windows, which can be extremely expensive. Unfortunately, the additional cost is not made up to the homeowner through energy efficiency. Other companies may advertise a low price for a very cheap window proven not to last the test of time. Fortunately, a happy median can be found when shopping for replacement windows.”

“We do not want to install a low-quality window, nor do we want to see homeowners overpay for something not worth the money,” said Stroehlein. “The product we have installed for the passed six years is a high-quality product proven to repay the homeowner with the energy savings it creates. The cost and quality of the windows are key in predicting an acceptable savings-to-investment ratio. I like to see a simple payback within eight to 12 years; 20- to 25-year paybacks are just unacceptable and not a smart investment.”

For more information on replacement windows, installation and energy savings, please contact Prime Time Energy Services at 685-4331 or info@primetime-energy.com today for a free consultation. Prime Time Energy Services is located at 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew.

Improving indoor air quality can improve your overall health

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:01:06 +0000

Have you ever stopped to think about the quality of the air you’re breathing? While air quality is usually out of your control when you’re outdoors or in a place of business, you can most definitely do something about the air you breathe in your home.

There are many things that can contribute to poor air quality, especially in heavily insulated homes that can trap air inside. Following are just a few of the many causes:

Inadequate fresh air supply and/or poor ventilation system maintenance.
Pollutants given off by building or furnishing materials.
Pollutants from standard household items such as cleaning products, appliances, pesticides, and off-gases from new materials.
Microorganisms or other biological contaminants.
Contaminants brought into the building from outside, such as exhausts from sanitary stacks, boiler stacks, natural gas vents or flues.

While energy efficient, today’s tight, well-insulated or spray foam insulated homes can trap unwanted particles like mold spores or odors inside. These particles are then distributed throughout the home by your furnace or air conditioning system. Therefore, air filtration is extremely important if your home has been insulated.

Fortunately, there are cost-effective steps a homeowner can take to improve the quality of the air inside their home. Here are two options:

Honeywell UV Air Purifiers

The Honeywell UV Air Purifier is shown to kill up to 99 percent of mold spores and odors built up on air conditioning coils and in duct work. This process, which uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, is highly recommended for homes with pets, air conditioners and high humidity. Complete installation of this low-cost system will typically range from $700 to $900 and can be added to any current furnace system.

Honeywell Whole House Media Air Cleaner

Featuring replaceable filtration, this Honeywell system is up to 85 percent more efficient at capturing microscopic dirt particles such as dust, smoke and pet dander. Requiring minimal maintenance, this setup allows for worry-free use for a period of eight to 12 months, depending on the current air quality of the home. The cost for this unit will run from $500 to $800, fully installed.

“Indoor air quality is extremely important, especially in a busy home filled with family,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services located at 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew. “You wouldn’t drink contaminated water or eat tainted food, so why breathe polluted air when there is a simple and inexpensive solution?”

For more information on the importance of clean indoor air and affordable air purification systems, please contact Prime Time Energy Services at 685-4331 or info@primetime-energy.com.

Free health and safety evaluation provides peace of mind for homeowners

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 19:00:52 +0000

Is your house healthy? If you’re not 100 percent sure, there’s a cost-free way to find out.

A New York State program now offers a free home health and safety evaluation — the NYSERDA Free Energy Audit — for homeowners. All homes are eligible for this service every two years, free of charge.

“A home should be declared safe before starting any major home improvement project such as adding insulation or installing new windows,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “If a home has an existing health or safety concern and you tighten up the building’s shell, the existing problem will only be magnified by trapping it inside the home. This could create a hazardous or deadly environment.”

One potential safety concern is exposure to carbon monoxide gas, which can lead to CO poisoning or even death.

“Every year, more than 400 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning,” added Nicholas Cappelli, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “CO is found in fumes produced by portable generators, stoves, lanterns and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood. A NYSERDA Energy Audit will determine if the occupants of your home are at risk.”

In addition to checking for carbon monoxide, which is both colorless and odorless, a typical home inspection will include detection of gas leaks, inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and a thorough examination of furnaces, boilers, hot water tanks, gas ovens/ stoves, gas dryers and other heat sources.

Homeowners are also reminded to change the batteries in their CO detectors every six months. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector, you are encouraged to purchase one as soon as possible. In fact, some home owners receive a CO detector and smoke detector through this program at no cost.

“I see dangerous situations all too often and in most instances, the homeowner is completely unaware of any existing issues. CO can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, and people or animals in these spaces can be poisoned and can become sick or deathly ill from breathing CO,” said Stroehlein. “At Prime Time Energy Services, we are all about making homes safe and healthy, first and foremost.”

In addition to the home safety inspection, NYSERDA also includes some easy recommendations to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

For more information or to schedule a no-cost home health and safety evaluation, please contact Prime Time Energy Services, 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew, at 685-4331 or info@primetime-energy.com.

Unique ‘Quality of Life’ rehab program creates a comfortable, affordable living environment for homeowners

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:44:11 +0000

Creating a safe, healthy and comfortable living environment for homeowners is the goal of a unique “Quality of Life Through Construction” program offered by Prime Time Energy Services of Depew. Best of all, the program is set up to actually decrease the amount of financial burden that accompanies home-ownership and can provide a financial surplus at the end of the month.

“Our objective is to assist homeowners in the City of Buffalo and across Western New York with much-needed repairs to their homes, creating a safe, healthy and comfortable living environment in the process,” said Jim Stroehlein, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “Working with community based agencies, we pursue financial assistance and grants on behalf of our clients to help them obtain a better lifestyle through affordable construction.”

Everyone who has taken part in this program has benefited in one way or another, whether it’s through construction, credit repair or some other type of support.

“When we decrease the amount of financial burden created by their home by replacing inefficient windows, doors, roofing, insulation or heating systems with energy efficient products, it often gives the homeowner a financial surplus at the end of the month,” added Nicholas Cappelli, co-owner of Prime Time Energy Services. “The less the homeowner spends on their utility bills and maintenance, the more they have available for other monthly necessities, thus improving the client’s quality of life.”

A complete list of benefits available through the program includes:

Funding/grant assistance
Budget reduction services
Home improvement planning
Health and safety services
Credit repair counseling
Real estate/rental advisory
Debt consolidation planning
Increase property valuation
Weatherization services
Emergency heating repair/replacement

“Homeowners who have already taken advantage of the program often decide to reinvest their savings back into their home by taking advantage of one of our low-interest loan options to also replace roofing or siding or remodel an interior space such as a kitchen or bath,” Stroehlein added. “Still others decide to keep the savings and live a more economically comfortable lifestyle. Either way, the program has greatly improved their overall quality of life.”

Homeowners of all financial status are eligible for assistance from the “Quality of Life Through Construction” program, regardless of credit. To date, the program has helped rehabilitate more than 500 homes and has utilized approximately $3 million in grant assistance.

Resolve to take the chill out of winter with spray foam insulation

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:43:55 +0000

It’s that time of year again when we start thinking about our New Year’s resolutions. What if there was one resolution that would benefit you, the stability of your home and the environment all at the same time? Now that sounds like a resolution worth keeping!

If you want to pull off the triple crown of resolutions, you may want to look into the advantages of polyurethane spray foam insulation for your home.

How will spray foam insulation benefit you personally? That’s simple; it will put more money in your wallet! Homeowners who turn to a proven product such as Foamsulate to properly insulate their homes can expect long-term savings of 40 percent or more on their heating and cooling costs.

In addition to saving you money, spray foam insulation has other advantages, such as eliminating dust and allergens and greatly reducing noise from external sources, improving your health and overall comfort level.

As for the benefit to your home, spray foam insulation provides a continuous seal that can prevent drafts and allows for easier control of indoor temperatures. It is so effective because as it is applied, it expands into the home’s cracks, seams and joints. Thus, not only are you insulating but also air sealing the home’s structure from the exterior elements.

And finally, by insulating your home with spray foam insulation, you’re helping the environment by reducing heat loss and thereby using less energy to keep your home comfortable year-round. Take it a step further and combine spray foam insulation with a new energy-efficient furnace or boiler system and you can lower your utility bills by as much as 50 percent each month!

With the chill of winter finally settling in across Western New York, now is the perfect time to investigate the many advantages of spray foam insulation. Homeowners will also be pleased to know that there are state programs in place that will help pay up to 50 percent of the cost of spray foam insulation for medium-income families!

For more information on spray foam insulation and discount programs available for homeowners, please contact Prime Time Energy Services, 67 Sheldon Ave., Depew, at 685-4331 or info@primetime-energy.com.

Improve your home’s energy efficiency this fall with these smart winterizing tips

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:43:39 +0000

(BPT) Cooler temperatures and shorter days can only mean one thing – winter is on its way. January and February are typically considered the coldest months in the Northwest, Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States. It can be tough for homeowners to stay cozy inside without running up monthly heating costs. Building professionals say fall is the ideal time to consider winterizing your home for a more energy efficient and comfortable winter.

Look for simple, affordable fixes.

There are some simple, inexpensive measures that homeowners can do to ensure their homes remain energy efficient, warm and comfortable. For less than $100, weather-stripping for windows, a door sweep strip and some caulking can help fill any air leaks to limit energy loss. Replacing the furnace‘s air filter every three months can also help create a more comfortable environment since a clogged filter can reduce the unit’s overall efficiency and lifespan.

Set the temperature.

Investing in a programmable thermostat allows homeowners to monitor the indoor temperature of their home remotely via a smart phone or online. Keeping the temperature low when no one is home and programming the thermostat to increase the temperature when everyone arrives home, annual heating costs can be reduced anywhere between 5-15 percent, according to the U.S Department of Energy. The same principle can be applied during summer months to help save on cooling costs.

Prevent ice damming.

If ice damming on the roof is an annual problem, consider taking measures to completely stop dams from forming. Major damage can result from ice damming, so it’s never too early to start thinking about a long-term solution. Ice damming occurs when warm, indoor air escaping through the roof melts snow on the shingles. The water then refreezes as it runs off the roof, creating a barrier of ice at the edge. Shovelling snow or chipping ice away can threaten life, limb and roof, so it’s best to consider more permanent solutions.

Keep warm air inside.

While weather-stripping and caulking can help address air leakage, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Home Energy Saver website says that proper air sealing insulation and attic venting are the best methods to stop ice damming from occurring. Spray foam insulation is a modern solution that both insulates and seals to help stop ice damming. Installed by licensed professionals, spray foam insulation, like that available from Icynene, works well in all climates and fills in gaps and cracks to help stop air leakage as well as ice dams formation.

As a long-term solution, spray foam insulation helps maintain a comfortable temperature year round while helping to control monthly heating and cooling expenses. Thanks to spray foam insulation’s air-sealing qualities, homeowners can reduce the size of their heating and cooling equipment since less effort is required to heat or cool the home.

While air leakage can play a role in higher-than-average heating and cooling bills, a well-insulated home and economical winterizing can help you get through the cold winter months. Homeowners can learn the five easy steps of selecting the right insulation for their home on icynene.com.

Fuel Savings

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:43:26 +0000

Caulk those old windows.. Don’t replace them. The majority of drafty windows we find are not the window itself but just in need of a little tightening up around the interior trim. Running a couple beads of clear caulk on the interior wood casing will a lot of times save you more than replacing the windows. This is a simple job which can be completed in a few hours with about $16 in supplies. Primetime Energy Services provides home owner’s a fair price for high efficient replacement windows.

Cellulose insulation

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:43:12 +0000

Install Cellulose insulation in your attic. This is the most cost effective improvement you can make to your home. Cellulose will create the highest “R” value for the lowest cost per square foot. A properly insulated home will save you hundreds per year and create a comfortable environment for your family. Call Primetime Energy Services for all of your insulation needs.

An Education on Insulation for Today’s Homeowner

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:43:03 +0000

Allyson Wilson from the American Chemistry Council serves as our guide through the world of spray foam insulation and its “green” benefits. Shown is a home undergoing an important renovation with spray foam.

Fuel and Electric Savings

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:42:49 +0000

Duct sealing can save you hundreds. In some instances, 30% or more can be lost from a home’s heating and cooling system by not properly sealing the ductwork in your home. This is a simple and easy way to improve the distribution system and make your Air Conditioner run less than it does currently. A roll of mastic tape is about $15 and this will take no more than a couple hours to complete the home.