Category: air sealing

How to Ensure Wintry Warmth in Arizona and New Mexico

Stay warm and save this winter! Discover expert tips on energy audits, insulation, and choosing the right contractor for a cozy, efficient home.

Updated January 2024

When winter draws near, fellow Arizona and New Mexico homeowners prepare for the colder months ahead. Even though our desert climate is renowned for its scorching summers, the winter months can still bring chilly temperatures, prompting us to seek ways to keep our abodes warm without driving up our energy bills. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies and winter energy-saving tips that can help us achieve a cozy home environment while also being mindful of energy conservation and cost efficiency.

Seal the Warmth: Tips for Improving Insulation

Two of the biggest contributors to high energy bills are inadequate or damaged insulation and air leaks. When your home’s insulation levels fall below ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values or become damaged by pests or water, the insulation can’t adequately resist heat flow and becomes less effective. While air leaks around your windows, doors, and other areas of your home allow heated air to easily seep out and cold air to seep in.

The best way to ensure your home has the right amount of insulation in the right place is to hire an insulation contractor to assess your current insulation levels. A professional can identify areas where your insulation may be lacking, such as walls, attics, and crawl spaces, recommend necessary upgrades, and provide you with an accurate cost estimate.

As for air leaks, seal drafts with caulk and weatherstripping to reduce heat loss and cold air infiltration and consider undergoing a home energy audit. During an audit, specialized equipment is used, such as a blower door test and infrared camera, to pinpoint air leaks and provide you with a list of energy efficient home improvements.

Working installing insulation in attic.

Take the time now, before winter weather hits, to invest in insulation upgrades like fiberglass blown-in wall insulation, spray foam insulation (that insulates and air seals in one step), or extra attic insulation. And be sure to take advantage of any tax credits and rebates that may be available to you.

Mastering Winter Warmth: Strategic Heating & Thermostat Use

Smiling woman using a smart thermostat.

Energy.gov reports that the average American household’s heating system accounts for almost 30% of their total utility bill. This makes it even more important to take advantage of the variety of ways to strategically heat your Southwest home or business, utilizing both technology and applying other simple measures.

During the winter months, it’s important to set your indoor temperature to an ideal setting, preferably 68°F during the day and 65°F at night. A simple programmable thermostat will let you “set it and forget it” while a smart thermostat adjusts temperatures around your schedule, preferences, and the weather. You’re able to monitor and control your smart thermostat using your smartphone. Both thermostats are effective choices that reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Also consider these other strategic heating measures to encourage energy conservation:

  • Take advantage of zone heating. Closing doors and vents in unused rooms will allow you to concentrate warmth where it’s needed most, rather than heating your entire house or building.
  • Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan. Doing so will draw air up, push the heated air into the corners of your room and send the warm air back down to heat up your family.
  • Lower the temperature of your water heater. Keep it set at no higher than 120°F to help save energy.

Let the Light In: Efficient Window Options

Windows are another potential source of heat loss during the cold winter months. Investing in energy efficient double or triple pane windows can improve insulation and reduce cold air infiltration. South-facing windows are particularly beneficial, as they allow for maximum solar heat gain during daylight hours. To further enhance insulation, you can draw thick curtains and blinds at night to trap warm air indoors, while opening them during sunny days to naturally heat your home. Taking these steps can help warm your home or business without turning the heater up and, in turn, help lower your energy consumption.

Woman sipping warm drink on a bright winter morning.

Embrace the Beauty of a Southwest Winter in a Cozy Home

When temperatures drop and the winter chill sets in, incorporating these winter energy-saving tips into your home maintenance routine will help you stay warm and cozy while also saving money and reducing your environmental footprint. With a combination of insulation upgrades, smart thermostat usage, and efficient window solutions, you can enjoy a comfortable living space throughout the winter season without breaking the bank.

For personalized advice and assistance with your commercial or home improvements geared towards energy efficiency, contact Banker Insulation today. With 18 locations across Arizona and New Mexico, our expert team is ready to provide insulation and energy solutions tailored to your specific needs so you can stay cozy, stay energy efficient, and embrace the beauty of winter in Arizona and New Mexico.

Everything You Need to Know About Cellulose Insulation

Enhance comfort and save energy with cellulose insulation. Banker Insulation provides expert installation for year-round efficiency and savings.

When used to insulate an attic, cellulose insulation will help regulate your home’s temperatures, thereby improving your comfort. It will also help save you money on high cooling costs in the summer and heating expenses in the winter.

According to ENERGY STAR, you can expect a ten percent savings on annual energy bills when you combine insulation installation with effective air sealing techniques, such as applying caulk and adding weather stripping materials around the windows and doors of your home. A professional energy audit is the most effective way to identify air leakage.

Professional installation is essential for reducing energy costs. An insulation contractor will ensure that all materials are installed correctly and at the proper depths to achieve ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values. R-values refer to how well the insulating material can resist heat flow.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CELLULOSE INSULATION

What is it?

Cellulose is a paper-based insulating material. It usually contains more than 80 percent of recycled paper products, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Because cellulose is a loose fill material, it can be blown-into attic spaces and densely packed in wall and floor cavities. Blown-in insulation, like cellulose, requires professional installation from an insulation company.

How will it benefit you?

  • Enhanced comfort
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Excellent thermal performance
  • It has noise reducing qualities
  • Inhibits the growth of mold
  • Minimizes insects and vermin
  • It is treated with fire retardants and, as such, has a Class I Fire Rating

Leading Insulation Company Since 1977

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has a location in New Mexico.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Fall Home Maintenance

Get ready for fall by tackling essential home tasks: inspect the roof for leaks, clear the gutters, seal air leaks, replace HVAC filters, and check attic insulation levels. Banker Insulation can help boost your home’s energy efficiency.

The dog days of summer will soon be replaced by fall’s cooler weather and stunning canvas. Fall is an ideal time to check these tasks, including ensuring adequate levels of fiberglass insulation in the attic, off your home maintenance checklist.

Inspect the Roof

Inspect the roof for any storm damage, abnormal wearing, or signs of aging. Do this from the ground by using binoculars, if necessary, and walking around the house’s perimeter. You should also check in the attic for light infiltration or damp fiberglass insulation. The latter may indicate a roof leak and insulation will need to be replaced by an experienced insulation contractor.

Fall Home Maintenance

Clean the Gutters

The gutters, if your home has them, direct rainwater away from your foundation. Dead leaves, tree needles, and the flyaway Frisbee can impact water flow by causing a blockage should they build up over time. Water then can damage your roof, insulation, siding, and foundation. Scoop out the gunk and then rinse the gutters each fall and spring – more frequently if your landscape features a lot of trees.

Check for Air Leaks

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain or loss through windows accounts for between 25 and 30 percent of your heating and cooling energy use, and they are not the only thing costing you money.

Air leaks can also cause a spike in your heating and cooling costs.

Because the source of air leaks can be challenging to identify without the correct tools, consider having an energy audit done by a licensed insulation contractor. It is essential to seal air leaks and insulate to see savings.

Change Your Filters

Routinely replace the filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. A good rule of thumb is to replace inexpensive filters every 30 days for maximum efficiency.

Now more than ever before, it is recommended to select high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which can go about 90 days before changing them is necessary.

A HEPA filter can effectively remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles such as dust, pet dander, and bacteria with a size of 0.3 microns. They can help improve indoor air quality and comfort. You can find replacement filters online or in stores.

Improve Fiberglass Insulation Levels

Another issue that may impact your energy efficiency is insufficient levels of fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass, whether loose fill or batts, provides good thermal performance at an attractive price point. It is also made of a significant amount of recycled content.

Uninsulated attics in valley homes should be insulated with an R-value – a measure of the material’s ability to resist heat transfers – between R30 and R60. Attics with existing insulation should meet a value between R25 to R38.

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

This blog has been updated from a 2018 post.

The Basics of Home Energy Audits

A home energy audit from Banker Insulation detects inefficiencies, saving you on energy costs. Prepare by gathering recent bills and clearing access areas for a thorough check.

The Basics of Home Energy Audits for Arizona Homeowners


One of the biggest steps you can take to ensure your Arizona home and family are safe is by evaluating your home’s energy performance with a home energy audit. Our Chandler office performs home energy audits for Phoenix-area homeowners. Read more to learn about this service and how our Chandler team can help you save energy and money.

A  home energy audit (also called a home energy assessment), checks and identifies problem areas where energy is being wasted in your home. It includes a room-by-room examination, visual inspections, and diagnostic tests to locate air leaks, insulation problems, and inefficiencies.

And in our desert climate, where extreme heat leads to high energy bills and skyrocketing heat and cooling costs, we all need one. A home energy audit can help you and other fellow homeowners reduce expenses, improve home comfort, and lower your carbon footprint.

A person holding an infrared thermal imaging camera, scanning the exterior of a house to detect heat loss and insulation gaps.

Why Home Energy Audits Are Important

1. Cost Savings

Did you know, in Arizona, where air conditioning accounts for over 40% of home energy usage, your peak summer bills can exceed $235 per month? Ouch! Addressing energy inefficiencies found in a home energy audit and completing energy efficiency upgrades can reduce your home’s energy consumption and cut your energy bills by 5% to 30%. Yay!

2. Comfort and Safety Improvements

A home energy assessment is ideal for helping to detect drafts, hot spots, and problem areas with inadequate insulation. They also detect ventilation issues or combustion appliance leaks that can impact your home’s indoor air quality and safety.

3. Environmental Benefits

Efficiency improvements reduce the strain on the electric grid and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Since more than 90% of Arizona homes have air conditioning, even small efficiency improvements can make a big sustainability impact.

A father and his young child adjusting a smart thermostat on the wall to optimize home energy efficiency.

The Home Energy Audit Process

Let’s look at how an energy audit works and what to expect.  

1. Initial Consultation

You will start by sitting down with a professional auditor to review your utility bills and discuss any concerns you have, such as hot and cold spots or drafty rooms.

2. Visual Inspection

The auditor will visually check for air leaks around windows and doors, gaps in weatherstripping, inadequate insulation, and inefficient appliances.

3. Blower Door Test (Air Leakage Check)

During the blower door test, a powerful fan is used to depressurize your home to measure its airtightness and identify hidden air leaks around windows, doors, and vents.

4. Thermal Imaging Scan

Infrared cameras are used to reveal any problem areas, such as temperature discrepancies that can indicate insulation gaps and air leaks.

A professional energy auditor in a business suit presenting a thermal imaging report to homeowners, explaining energy efficiency improvements.

5. HVAC & Appliance Evaluation

The auditor will examine your heat and cooling systems, ductwork, thermostat settings, and major appliances to assess their efficiency.

6. Report & Recommendations

The auditor will compile all the data and results and report back with a detailed summary of their findings.

This will include a prioritized list of energy efficiency upgrades.

Arizona-Specific Energy Programs & Incentives (2024–2025)

Arizona strives to provide a variety of programs and incentives for local homeowners to improve energy efficiency with less money out of your pocket.

1. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) 

This program provides free energy efficiency upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and HVAC replacements to income-eligible households. 

2. Home Energy Rebate Programs (HOMES & HEAR)

 HOMES and HEAR are part of the statewide rebate initiative known as “Efficiency Arizona.” 

  • HOMES Program: The Home Efficiency Rebates Program gives back up to $4,000 ($8,000 for low-income households) for whole-home retrofits. 
  • HEAR Program: This is the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program (HEAR) portion of the Arizona’s Home Energy Rebates Program. It provides up to $8,000 rebates for energy-efficient appliances like heat pumps for income-eligible households. 
  • Additional rebates: $4,000 for electrical panel upgrades, $2,500 for wiring, with a $14,000 total cap per household. 
A happy family sitting together on a cozy couch in their well-insulated home, enjoying a comfortable indoor environment.

3. Utility Company Incentives 

Federal Incentives for Home Energy Efficiency (2025) 

1. Federal Tax Credits 

2. Federal Rebate Programs 

HOMES & HEAR rebates are federally funded but administered at the state level by Arizona’s Efficiency Arizona initiative. 

3. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – Nationwide 

DIY vs. Professional Home Energy Audits

1. DIY Home Energy Check

You may choose the route of a DIY home energy check. If so, take the time to inspect your windows and doors, check insulation, locate air leaks, inspect ducts and vents, and evaluate lighting and appliances. Utilize the ENERGY STAR Home Energy Yardstick to benchmark efficiency.

2. Professional Home Energy Audits

Or you may choose to leave things to a professional for a more thorough job, especially if you’re dealing with high energy bills or continuous comfort issues. A professional home energy audit, performed by an experienced insulation contractor, uses advanced tools like blower door tests, infrared scans, and furnace efficiency meters to pinpoint inefficiencies.  

Professional energy audits can vary in cost, but rebates and tax credits, such as a 30% IRS tax credit (up to $150) can help reduce and offset costs significantly.  

Updated 2025 Data & Statistics on Arizona Home Energy Use 

We mentioned it earlier, but it bears repeating: Arizona’s a hot place to live. For a clearer picture, here’s a quick recap of some of the stats. 

1. Extreme Cooling Needs 

  • 90% of Arizona homes use air conditioning, with 86% relying on central AC. 
  • Heat and cooling accounts for over 40% of household energy usage. 

2. High Summer Energy Bills 

  • Peak summer bills average ~$234/month. 
  • Some homes exceed $300+ per month. 

3. Savings Potential 

  • Following audit recommendations can cut energy bills by 5% to 30%. 
  • Even a 5–10% reduction on your electric bill translates to significant savings over time. 

4. Payback Period for Upgrades 

  • Insulation and air sealing can reduce cooling costs up to 20%. 
  • Many energy efficiency upgrades pay for themselves through rebates and energy savings within a few years. 

Next Steps 

You’ve got a lot of helpful information in your head right now that may seem overwhelming. Take these next steps to ensure you maximize your home’s energy efficiency.  

1. Schedule a Professional Home Energy Audit 

If energy bills are high or home comfort issues persist, a subsidized audit is a smart investment. 

2. Implement DIY Fixes First 

Start with air sealing, insulation checks, thermostat upgrades, and appliance evaluations. 

3. Take Advantage of Arizona’s Energy Programs 

Apply for rebates, tax credits, and utility incentives to maximize energy savings. 

4. Plan for Energy Efficiency Upgrades 

Use your audit report to prioritize cost-effective improvements. Strive to maximize your savings by stacking rebates, credits, and financing options.  

5. Work with Experts Like Banker Insulation 

A trusted provider of insulation, air sealing, and energy efficiency upgrades, Banker Insulation stays up to date on energy audits in Phoenix and Chandler and 2025 rebate and tax credit programs. 

Upgrade Your Home’s Energy Efficiency 

At Banker Insulation, we know a home energy audit is a cost-effective way to lower your energy bills, enhance home comfort, and reduce environmental impact. With expanded rebates in 2025, as an Arizona homeowner, you have a prime opportunity to make energy efficient home improvements at minimal cost. Our Chandler/Phoenix location is proud to offer professional home energy audits for your convenience.  

Contact us today to schedule your audit and start saving! 

 

A joyful family embracing in a sunlit, energy-efficient home, symbolizing comfort and savings from improved insulation and energy use.

References

  • Arizona Department of Housing. (2016). Understanding Energy Audits [Conference presentation]. Arizona Housing Authority.

housing.az.gov

  • Arizona Department of Housing. (n.d.). Weatherization Assistance Program. Retrieved 2025, from https://housing.az.gov/general-public/weatherization-assistance-program

https://housing.az.gov/general-public/weatherization-assistance-program#:~:text=Housing%20housing,their%20homes%20more%20energy%20efficient 

  • Arizona Public Service (APS). (2020, June 18). As temperatures rise, APS offers ways to save [Press release]. APS Newsroom.  

https://www.aps.com/en/About/Our-Company/Newsroom/Articles/As-temperatures-rise-APS-offers-ways-to-save#:~:text=As%20temperatures%20rise%2C%20APS%20offers,stay%20safe%20and%20comfortable 

  • Arizona Technology Council. (2023, March 15). What every homeowner should know about the new clean energy rebates. AZTechCouncil Blog.  

https://www.aztechcouncil.org/what-every-homeowner-should-know-about-the-new-clean-energy-tax-credit/#:~:text=,local%20rebate%20programs%3A%20In 

  • Elephant Energy. (2021). Energy Audits: The (Mini) Ultimate Guide. Retrieved from https://elephantenergy.com/blog/energy-audits-guide  

https://elephantenergy.com/energy-audits-the-mini-ultimate-guide/#:~:text=Energy%20Audits%3A%20The%20,to 

  • Energy Star (U.S. EPA). (2015). Guide to Energy Audits. Retrieved from https://www.energystar.gov  

https://www.zerorpm.com/component/easyblog/entry/start-2015-with-an-energyresolution-to-save-money-and-energy-all-year-long?Itemid=731#:~:text=ZeroRPM%20Blog%20,I%20resolve 

  • Energy Star. (n.d.). Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings. Retrieved from https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/methodology 

https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/methodology 

  • Governor’s Office of Arizona. (2024, August 29). Governor’s Office of Resiliency Launches First Phase of “Efficiency Arizona” to Implement Energy Saving Programs and Rebates for Consumers [Press release].  

https://efficiencyarizona.com/#:~:text=Q1%202025,wide.%20Late%202025%2A.%20Efficiency 

advantagehomeperformance.com 

  • Internal Revenue Service. (2023). Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (IRC 25C). Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit  

https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit#:~:text=Energy%20Efficient%20Home%20Improvement%20Credit,a%20written%20report%20and 

  • Pitzl, M. (2024, July 16). How high is your Arizona electricity bill this summer? The Arizona Republic (AZCentral.com).  

https://www.azcentral.com/story/money/business/energy/2024/07/16/how-high-is-your-arizona-electric-bill/74371165007/#:~:text=How%20high%20is%20your%20Arizona,235%20for%20the%20average%20customer 

  • Rigzone News. (2024, September 2). Arizona Rolls Out Home Electrification, Appliance Rebates Program. Retrieved from https://www.rigzone.com/news/arizona_home_electrification_rebates_2024  

https://www.rigzone.com/news/arizona_rolls_out_home_electrification_appliance_rebates_program-02-sep-2024-177958-article/#:~:text=Program%20www,efficient%20home%20upgrades 

  • U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Professional Home Energy Assessments. Energy.gov.  

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/professional-home-energy-assessments#:~:text=Professional%20Home%20Energy%20Assessments%20Assessors,Check 

  • U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Energy Saver 101 Infographic: Home Energy Audits. Energy.gov 

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/energy-saver-101-infographic-home-energy-audits 

  • U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2013). Household Energy Use in Arizona (EIA State Brief). Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential/reports/2009/state_briefs/  

https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential/reports/2009/state_briefs/pdf/az.pdf#:~:text=residents%20%2858,central%20air%20conditioning%20for 

  • Virginia Energy Sense. (2023). DIY Home Energy Audit – Uncover Efficiency and Savings. Retrieved from https://www.virginiaenergysense.org/diy-home-energy-audit  

https://www.virginiaenergysense.org/tips-to-save-energy-money/at-home/do-it-yourself-energy-audit/#:~:text=DIY%20Home%20Energy%20Audit%20,in%20the%20foundation%2C%20walls%2C 

  • Salt River Project. (2022). SRP Home Energy Assessment™ program. SRP Blog.  

https://blog.srpnet.com/reasons-to-get-home-energy-assessment/#:~:text=Reasons%20to%20get%20an%20SRP,All%20virtual 

  • Energy Star (U.S. EPA). (2015). Guide to Energy Audits. Retrieved from https://www.energystar.gov  

https://www.zerorpm.com/component/easyblog/entry/start-2015-with-an-energyresolution-to-save-money-and-energy-all-year-long?Itemid=731#:~:text=ZeroRPM%20Blog%20,I%20resolve 

Three Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sound-dampening. Banker Insulation provides optimal efficiency with expert installation.

Since its introduction in the late 1930s, fiberglass insulation has remained one of the most popular insulating materials, and with good reason. Pre-cut rolls or batts and blown in loose-fill are the two most frequently sold types. It can be applied to attics, walls, floor cavities, and basement rim joists.

Because a tight fit is required for optimal energy efficiency, it is essential to hire an experienced and licensed insulation contractor, such as Banker Insulation. It is also recommended that any air leaks be sealed to ensure maximum efficiency.

Fiberglass insulation is predominantly manufactured using up to 60 percent recycled container glass, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, thus freeing landfill space. The glass is woven into tight fibers that trap pockets of air to slow the transference of conditioned, whether heated or cooled, air.

Title card featuring a worker hand installing fiberglass insulation: Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation.

Ways Fiberglass Insulation Can Benefit You

Cost Effective

Fiberglass insulation is the ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers. There are plenty of options in terms of R-values and types that residential and commercial consumers can select from while remaining within budget. Another cost effective option to consider, especially if moisture is a concern, like in a basement, is to choose faced insulation. That insulation uses a vapor retardant to help prevent condensation.

Sound Dampening

Fiberglass insulation is offered in different thicknesses with different degrees of sound absorption. While noise reduction increases with depth, this insulating material will not block sound transmission. There are, however, products available with added sound attenuation. These products are ideal for several applications, including home theaters and home offices, as well as other areas where you’d like to block noise.

Thermal Resistance

The R-value for fiberglass ranges between R-8 and R-40. These values measure the thermal resistance – how well the material resists heat – with a higher number offering the best performance. Contact an insulation contractor to identify the correct R-value for your area’s climate as well as where insulation is required. Make sure the material provides optimal energy efficiency by having it professionally installed.

Schedule an Appointment with Banker Insulation

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Banker Insulation has been offering the installation of fiberglass insulation and other types of materials, along with sound attenuation services, and energy audits since 1977. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.