Energy Efficiency Tips for Attic Insulation

Written on: March 14, 2022

Make the most of this investment for big energy savings!

When you read articles or blog postings about home insulation, the majority of the time, they concern keeping your house warm in the winter. Insulation, though, is a 365-day-a-year tool for saving energy. That includes the summer!

Properly insulating your attic will help make your home’s heating and cooling system work less while keeping your home comfortable. Insulation can help you save lots of money on your energy bills, especially when you consider you’re your heating and cooling systems account for about half of your home’s energy costs.

AFC can help you in terms of energy efficiency with our equipment services. We install, maintain and help keep your home heating, cooling, and comfort equipment running at its maximum efficiency. We offer a FREE quote. And all our work is backed up with our Comfort Guarantee.

Insulation in your attic not only improves your home’s energy efficiency, but it’s also a smart financial investment since you may gain 80% (or more!) of your money back when it comes to your home’s value.

Before you get started on this project, here is some basic information about insulation.

What kind of insulation should I use?

While fiberglass roll-in insulation is the most common type of home insulation, it isn’t the only one. In fact, it’s just one of many types of insulation available. Rigid foam, loose blown-in insulation, spray foam, and structural insulated panels are a few examples of other types of insulation. Some types may require professional installation. Learn more about the different types of insulation from the U.S. Department of Energy.

What is R-value and what R-value do I need?

The R-value of your insulation measures the resistance of heat flow through the insulation. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation is. The R-value you require is determined by the zone in which you live. Maine’s Central region falls into the Zone 6 category (as seen on this map from the Department of Energy). You’ll need an R-value of R49 to R60 if your attic is uninsulated. If your home has existing 3 to 4 inches of insulation, you’ll need add insulation of an R-value between R38 and R49.

AFC offers complete heating, cooling, and fuel services to keep your home heating and cooling energy efficient. Contact us to see what we can do for you.