Specializing in Energy Efficiency Rebate Work

Rebate Info

Why haven't I heard about this program from my utility company?

Utility companies include various rebate offers with their billing, so you've more than likely heard about the program without realizing it. Even if you've gone paperless with your utility companies and opted out of email updates from them, they still announce this and similar programs through local advertising methods including their website. But! There can be a lot of confusion with rebate programs because of the many different requirements involved.

Where does the rebate money come from?

Rebate money is generated from various local, state, and federal budgets and grants. Most of the money originates with you and your neighbors by way of your utility bills. In a very real sense, you've already paid for the upgrades. All you need to do is take advantage of them.

Why would my utility company want to save me money and sell me less electricity and/or gas?

  • If they were operated like any other business, they wouldn't; however utility companies are strictly regulated and have standards and guidelines—including those affecting consumer prices—they are legally required to follow.
  • Because they are regulated, they can actually lose money as demand goes up and supply goes down.
    As demand goes up, so does the need to produce or harvest more electricity or gas; but utilities companies are prohibited from raising their prices relative to the cost of increased production. Consequently, if there is a process by which they can help you be more energy efficient and reduce their burden of supply at the same time, they will make it available.

Why did you knock on my door?

We knocked on your door because we are doing rebate work in your area and want to make sure you don't miss out on this great opportunity to save money while making your home more energy efficient.

How do I know the rebates are real?

All rebates are listed on your utility company's website. Your energy consultant should have provided you with a flyer containing a phone number and a website where you can determine the legitimacy of the rebate.

How do I know if I qualify for a rebate?

Rebate qualification requirements vary by location. Contact Us to find out how you can qualify in your area.

How much is my rebate?

Rebate terms and amounts vary by location. Contact Us to learn about the rebates in your area.

Is getting my rebate going to be a pain?

Of course not! Some rebates are instant which means the amount is immediately deducted from your invoice at the time of payment. Others are mail-in rebates and take a little longer just because of processing time. Regardless of the type of rebate, your Synergy Efficiency consultant will help you complete all of the necessary paperwork.

How long will it take to get my rebate?

There are basically two types of rebates: instant and mail-in. Many utility companies offer instant rebates. You receive these rebates as a discount or a deduction on your invoice at the time of payment. If your rebate is a mail-in rebate, you will be responsible for the full invoice at the time of payment. You then mail your rebate form into your utility company. You should receive your rebate check 4-6 weeks later. Rest assured, your Synergy Efficiency consultant will help you through the rebate process.

How much will I save in money and resources?

Most customers will see energy savings up to 50% on their heating and cooling costs as a direct result of duct sealing, air sealing, or properly insulating their home. Ultimately, however, the amount of savings you see depend on the upgrades you choose for your home.

Licensing Questions

What is BPI certified, and why is it important?

The Business Performance Institute (BPI) is a nationally recognized certification, accreditation, and quality assurance organization for home performance contractors. Focusing on the house as a system approach, BPI emphasizes the interdependence of building systems as they relate to energy consumption. BPI Building Analyst certification is the nation's most widely recognized energy auditor certification. BPI contractors receive ongoing training to keep up with the ever changing efficiency standards. Synergy Efficiency employs BPI certified professionals who will perform an energy audit in accordance with BPI standards to effectively identify energy loss in a home and then make recommendations on eliminating that loss.

Is Synergy Efficiency licensed and insured?

Yes, and proof of licensing and insurance can be provided upon request.

Home Evaluation

How do I know if my home will benefit from an energy efficiency upgrade?

Here are some good indicators that your home will benefit from an energy efficiency upgrade:
  • Your air conditioner and/or furnace seem to run constantly.
  • The temperature in your home goes the opposite direction too quickly after the furnace or air conditioner cycles off.
  • There are rooms in your house that never seem to be the same temperature as the rest of the house.

How long does an inspection take?

Depending on the product desired, an inspection, discussion of rebate qualifications, and your home's upgrade needs can all be addressed in under 30 minutes. A Synergy Efficiency consultant will answer all of your questions and leave you with a clear scope of the work.

Products

What type of product will be used?

For air sealing, we use a top-of-the-line 3M aerosol closed foam sealant. It meets all fire codes, has low volatile organic compounds, and is virtually odorless. For duct sealing, we use a water based mastic sealant that dries semi-pliable so it won't crack or break and creates an air-tight bond. It has low volatile organic compounds, is virtually odorless, and is mold and mildew resistant. For insulation, we use Certainteed's InsulSafe SP Fiberglass Blowing Wool. It is non-combustible, non-corrosive, and odor free. All products used are 100% safe to use in your home and are all allergen free. All materials used have a lifetime guarantee.

Installation

Who performs the install?

Synergy Efficiency's own trained and BPI certified technicians perform each and every energy audit and installation. We do NOT hire a 3rd party to perform the work you hire us to do.

Do I have to be home during the installation?

That's up to you, but we do not require someone to be at home the entire time. We do need someone to let us into the home and to sign the necessary paperwork when we have completed the work.

How much does installation cost?

Installation costs vary from home to home depending on the following factors:
  • House Size
  • Location of area being treated
  • Condition of area being treated
  • R-Value of existing insulation and the amount of R-Value to be added.
  • The cost of recommended upgrades needed to meet rebate requirements (i.e., air sealing, duct sealing, etc.,...)

How long does the installation take?

The average upgrade installation takes approximately 60-90 minutes to complete depending on the product or service to be installed.