Case Study: How a Stonington Homeowner Cut Energy Costs with a Home Energy Solutions Assessment

At Dynamic Building & Energy Solutions, we specialize in helping Connecticut homeowners make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient. This recent project in the Stonington area highlights how our Home Energy Solutions (HES) assessments uncover hidden inefficiencies, reduce heating costs, and connect families with rebates and financing that make upgrades affordable.

Client Profile

  • Property Type: Single-family home

  • Size: 2,408 sq. ft., single-story

  • Occupants: 3

  • Heating & Hot Water: Fuel oil

  • Cooling: None

The homeowner reached out to us after noticing rising fuel oil bills and persistent drafts. Like many New England families, they wanted to improve comfort while lowering their reliance on costly heating oil.

The Challenge

This home’s older oil system and lack of insulation meant heat was escaping quickly. Drafts throughout the living space made winters uncomfortable, and the absence of central cooling raised concerns about summer comfort too.

Our Approach

Our certified energy technicians performed a comprehensive home energy audit, which included:

  • Blower Door Test & Air Sealing – Identified and reduced air leakage points.

  • Insulation & Ductwork Inspection – Evaluated attic and crawl spaces for thermal loss.

  • Appliance Efficiency Testing – Checked performance of major appliances.

  • Rebate & Financing Guidance – Matched the homeowner with Energize CT incentives.

A review of a visit that Dynamic Building CT did for a home energy assessment in Stonington, CT

Solutions Implemented

  • Air Sealing: Reduced air leakage by 35%, from 2,537 CFM to 1,659 CFM, using weatherstripping and gap sealing.

  • Thermal Envelope Improvements: Recommended attic floor insulation and an insulated attic access cover.

  • Appliance Upgrade: Suggested replacing the refrigerator with a high-efficiency ENERGY STAR® model.

Results

  • Immediate Savings from Air Sealing:

    • 76 gallons of oil saved annually

    • $229 annual savings

  • Additional Recommendations:

    • Attic Insulation: Estimated $421/year savings

    • Appliance Upgrade: Estimated $59/year savings

  • Total Potential Savings: $485 annually

Annual Energy Cost Comparison:

  • Before Audit: $5,490

  • After Air Sealing: $5,261

  • With Full Recommendations: $4,776

Financing & Incentives

Through Energize CT, the homeowner qualified for valuable programs including:

  • Capital for Change (C4C) Micro Loan – 0% interest, $500–$3,000 for insulation and small upgrades.

  • Smart-E Loan – Up to $40,000 for larger improvements like window replacements, heat pumps, or solar.

  • Rebates: $2,132 in utility rebates to offset project costs.

Impact

This project demonstrates how targeted improvements—like insulation upgrades and air sealing—can drastically reduce home energy costs. With rebates and low-interest financing available, the payback period for many upgrades can be as little as four years.

For Connecticut and Rhode Island homeowners, a Home Energy Solutions assessment is often the first step toward:

  • Lower heating and cooling costs

  • Greater year-round comfort

  • Improved indoor air quality

  • Increased home value

Ready to Save on Energy Costs?

Dynamic Building & Energy Solutions has been helping homeowners across Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 30 years. Whether you’re interested in home insulation, energy-efficient windows, or a comprehensive energy assessment, our team can connect you with the solutions, rebates, and financing to make your project affordable.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your energy audit and start saving.