COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

Mitt Romney, Governor

Kerry Healey, Lieutenant Governor

Department of Housing and Community Development

Division of Community Services
Jane Wallis Gumble, Director

WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

TECHNICAL MANUAL

September 1, 2004
 Contributions by the Department of Housing and Community Development

Division Of Community Services

Theresa Brewer
Director of Community Services Programs

Ken Rauseo
Deputy Director for Energy Programs

David Fuller
Program Coordinator

Wesley James
Senior Technical Field Representative

Robert Guenthner
Technical Field Representative

CO-AUTHORED BY:

Ken Rauseo
Deputy Director for Energy Programs

David Fuller
Program Coordinator

For Further Information:

(617) 573-1400
Fax (617) 573-1460

[Link]
 US Department of Energy Weatherization
Assistance Program Mission Statement
"To reduce heating and cooling costs for low-income families,
particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities, and children, by
improving the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their
health and safety."

This Massachusetts Weatherization Assistance Program Technical Manual is intended to be

used in conjunction with the Northeast Weatherization Field Guide to provide comprehensive
technical guidelines on appropriate weatherization protocols and techniques.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE
Standards for Weatherization Materials 1-14
Weatherization Priority Measures 14-18
Massachusetts Health and Safety Guidance 19-30
Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste 31
Major Air Sealing Priorities 32-37
Conducting a One Point Blower Door Test 38-39
Weatherstripping 40
Water Heater Insulation 41-42
Heating System Work for WAP Clients 43-44
Oil Fired Heating System Measures 45
Setting Priorities on Oil-Fired Heating Systems 46
Performance Standards 47
Oil Fired Heating System Quality Control Procedures 48
Gas Fired Heating System Measures 49
Setting Priorities on Gas Fired Heating Systems 50
Gas Fired Heating System Quality Control Procedures 51
Heating System Efficiency Report 52
Attic Insulation 53-54
Ventilation Requirements 55
Attic Inspection Form 56
Certificate of Insulation 57
Knob and Tube Wiring 58
Sidewall Insulation 59-64
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs 65
Floor Insulation 66
Perimeter Insulation 67
Duct and Pipe Insulation 68-69
Storm Windows/Replacement Doors/Windows 70-71
Incidental Repairs 72
Quality Control Procedures 73
Post Installation Quality Control Report 74-75
Guidelines for the Weatherization of Multifamily Buildings 76-78
BWR Cost Section Breakdown 79
STANDARDS FOR WEATHERIZATION MATERIALS

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Department of Housing and Community Development
Division of Community Services

REVISED APRIL 1, 2002

1
 THERMAL INSULATING MATERIALS FOR BUILDING ELEMENTS
INCLUDING WALLS, FLOORS, CEILINGS, ATTICS, AND ROOFS

STANDARDS

Insulation: Mineral Fiber

Blanket/Batt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM1 C665-98

Roof Insulation Board . . . . . . . . . ASTM C726-00a

Loose-Fill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C764-99

Insulation: Mineral Cellular

Vermiculite Loose-Fill. . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C516-80 (1996)e1

Perlite Loose-Fill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C549-81 (1995)e1

Cellular Glass Block. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C552-00

Perlite Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C728-97

Insulation: Organic Fiber

Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board. . . . . . ASTM C208-98

Cellulose Loose-Fill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C739-00

Insulation: Organic Cellular

Rigid Celluar Polystryrene . . . ASTM C578-95

Preformed Unfaced Rigid Polyurethane Insulation . . . ASTM C591-00

Polyurethane or Polyisocyanurate
Board Faced With Aluminum Foil F.S.2 HH-I-1972/1
on Both Sides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1981)

Polyurethane or Polyisocyanurate
Board Faced With Felt F.S. HH-I-1972/2
on Both Sides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1981)

1
ASTM indicates American Society for Testing and Materials.
2
F.S. indicates Federal Specification.

2
 STANDARDS

Insulation: Composite Board

Mineral Fiber and Rigid Cellular

Polyurethane Composite Roof
Insulation Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C726-00a

Gypsum Board and Polyurethane or

Polyisocyanurate Composite Board . . . . . . . F.S. HH-I-1972/4 (1981)

Materials Used As A Patch To

Reduce Infiltration Through The
Building Envelope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commercial Availability

3
 THERMAL INSULATING MATERIALS FOR PIPES, DUCTS, AND
EQUIPMENT SUCH AS BOILERS AND FURNACES

STANDARDS

Insulation: Mineral Fiber

Preformed Pipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C547-00

Blanket and Felt Insulation

(Commercial and Industrial Type) . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C553-00

Blanket Insulation and Blanket

Type Pipe Insulation (Metal-Mesh
Covered) (Industrial Type). . . . . . . . . . ASTM C592-00

Block and Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C612-00

High Temperature Fiber Blanket

Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C892-00

Insulation: Mineral Cellular

Calcium Silicate Block and Pipe . . . . . . ASTM C533-95

Cellular Glass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C552-00

Molded Expanded Perlite Block and Pipe . . . ASTM C610-99

Insulation: Organic Cellular

Preformed Flexible Elastomeric

Cellular in Sheet and Tubular Form . . . ASTM C534-99

Unfaced Preformed Rigid Cellular

Polyurethane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C591-00

4
 FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR THERMAL INSULATING
MATERIALS ACCORDING TO INSULATION USE STANDARDS

STANDARDS

Attic Floor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insulation materials intended for exposed use in attic floors shall be
capable of meeting the same smoldering combustion requirements
given for cellulose insulation in ASTM C739-00.

Enclosed Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insulation materials intended for use within enclosed stud or joist
spaces shall be capable of meeting the smoldering combustion
requirements given for cellulose insulation in ASTM C739-00.

Exposed Interior
Walls & Ceilings . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insulation materials, including those with combustible facings,
which remain exposed and serve as wall or ceiling interior finish
shall have a flame spread classification not to exceed 150 (per
ASTM E84-00a).

Exterior Envelope Walls

and Roofs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exterior envelope walls and roofs containing thermal insulation shall
meet applicable local government building code requirements for the
complete wall or roof assembly.

Pipes, Ducts, and Equipment . . . . Insulation materials intended for use on pipes, ducts, and equipment
shall be capable of meeting a flame spread classification not to
exceed 150 (per ASTM E84-00a).

5
 STORM WINDOWS

STANDARDS

Exterior Storm Windows

Aluminum Insulating . . . . . . . . . ANSI/AAMA31002.10-93

Aluminum Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI/AAMA 1002.10-93

Wood Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Section 3 of ANSI/NWWDA4 I.S. 2-97.

Frameless Plastic Glazing . . . . . . Required minimum thickness 6 mil (0.006 inches) basement
windows only.
Moveable Insulation Systems for
Windows (Quilts) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commercial Availability

Interior Storm Windows. . . . . . . . A demonstrated ten (10) year effective life expectancy with a rigid
frame.

3
ANSI/AAMA indicates American National Standards Institute/Architectual Aluminum Manufacturers Association.
4
ANSI/NWWDA indicates American National Standards Institute/National Wood and Door Association.

6
 REPLACEMENT WINDOWS

STANDARDS

Replacement Windows

Aluminum Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI/AAMA 101/I.S. 2-97

Steel Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steel Window Institute Recommendation

Specifications for Steel Windows, 1990

Wood Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI/NWWDA I.S.2-97.

Rigid Vinyl Frame………………. ASTM D4726-00

NOTE: Sealed insulated glass units shall be warranted against failure of the seal for a period of at least ten (10)
years.

Replacement windows other than wood must have a built in thermal break.

7
 REPLACEMENT DOORS

STANDARDS

Replacement Doors

Hinged Doors

Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI A250.8-98

Wood

Flush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exterior door provisions of ANSI/NWWDA I.S. 1-97

Pine, Fir, Hemlock, Spruce. . . ANSI/NWWDA I.S. 6-97

Sliding Glass Doors

Aluminum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI/NWWDA 101/I.S 2-97

Wood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI/NWWDA I.S. 3-88

8
 CAULKS AND SEALANTS

STANDARDS

Caulks and Sealants . . . . . . . . . . . Minimum 20-year life.

Glazing Compound . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C669-00

Oil and Resin Base Caulks . . . . . . . . ASTM C570-00

Acrylic (Solvent Type) Sealants . . . . . ASTM C920-98e1

Butyl Rubber Sealants . . . . . . . . . . . . . F.S. Commercial Item Description A-A-272 (6/7/95)

Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene Sealants ASTM C920-98e1

Latex Sealing Compounds . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C834-00e1

Elastomeric Joint Sealants

(Normally considered to include
polysulfide, polyurethane, and
silicone). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C920-98e1

Preformed Gasket and Sealing

Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASTM C509-00

Backer Rod, Oakum, Untreated Jute,

Natural Fiber Twine, Synthetic Twine, or
other suitable material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Commercial availability.

Duct Sealing Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pressure Sensitive or Heat Activated Tape or mastic.

Conformance to U.L. 181A or 181B

COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS

CFLs…………………. UL approved and an approved electric utility product

9
 WEATHERSTRIPPING
STANDARDS

Weatherstripping. . . . . . . . . . . . Must be permanently installed with fasteners (tacks, staples, brads, etc.)
and must have a demonstrated life expectancy of at least five (5) years.
All V-strip weatherstripping must be of the pre-molded type with an
effective memory .

VAPOR RETARDERS

STANDARDS

Vapor Retarders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selected according to the provisions cited in ASTM C755-97; permeance
not greater than 1 perm when determined according to the desiccant
method described in ASTM E96-00.

Items to Improve Attic Ventilation. . . . Commercially available

SKIRTING

STANDARDS

Skirting. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . Commercially available

10
 CLOCK THERMOSTATS

STANDARDS

Clock Thermostats . . . . . . . . . . . Listed by U.L. Conformance to NEMA5 DC 3-1989 (R1996)

BOILER/FURNACE CONTROL SYSTEMS

STANDARDS

Automatic Set-Back Thermostats. . . . . Listed by U.L. Conformance to NEMA DC3-1989 (R1996)

Line Voltage or Low Voltage Room

Thermostats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Listed by U.L. Conformance to NEMA DC3-1989 (R1996)

Hydronic Boiler Controls . . . . . . . . Listed by U.L.

Energy Management Systems . . . . Listed by U.L.

Other Burner Controls . . . . . . . . Listed by U.L

5
NEMA indicates National Electrical Manufacturers Association

11
 WATER HEATER MODIFICATIONS

STANDARDS

Insulate Tank and Distributing

Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (See Insulation Standards)

Hot Water Pipe Heater Strips . . . . . Listed by U.L

Reduce Thermostat Settings . . . . . . Set Back to 130o

Install Vent Damper, Gas Fueled . . . . ANSI Z21.66-1996, including Exhibits A and B ANSI Z223.1-1999

Low Flow Water Faucet Aerators . . . . Commercially available. Brass, Chrome plated.

Low Flow Shower Heads . . . . . . . . . ANSI/ASME A112 18 1.m. Not to exceed 2.5 Gallons Per Minute
(GPM). Brass, Chrome plated with Shut-Off.

12
BOILER REPAIR AND MODIFICATIONS/EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
STANDARDS

Replacement Oil Burners . . . . . . . . 527 CMR Oil Burning Equipment Board of Fire Prevention and NFPA 31-
2001.

Gas Power Burners . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI Z223.1 1999

Furnaces, Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U.L. 727, Eighth Edition, 1994 and NFPA 31-2001 Minimum AFUE 80%

Furnaces, Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANSI Z21.47-1998, and ANSI Z223.1-1999, (Same as NFPA 54-1999)
Minimum AFUE 80%.

Boilers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minimum AFUE 80%

Cleanout/Tune-Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . Per DHCD Guidance

Combustion Chambers . . . . . . . . . . NFPA 31-2001

Thermostatic Radiator Valves. . . . . . Commercially available. One pipe steam systems require air vents on each
radiator; see manufacturers’ requirements.

13
 WEATHERIZATION PRIORITY MEASURES

SINGLE-FAMILY AND SMALL MULTI-FAMILY (ONE TO FOUR UNITS)

PRIORITY SOURCE OF HEAT LOSS AND REMEDY

1. Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste/Duct Sealing

Complete comprehensive Blower Door Directed Air Sealing and seal all exposed
ductwork based on the protocol outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical
Manual.

1a Primary Heating System

Complete safety and efficiency improvements on the primary heating system based on
the guidelines outlined in the most recent HEARTWAP Program Guidance. Heating
system work should be referred to HEARTWAP provided sufficient funds exist.

1. Uninsulated Attic (R 19 or less)

Install attic insulation up to R 38 (R 44 for electric heated homes). Attics must

receive a thorough air sealing protocol prior to the installation of insulation.

3. Uninsulated Walls

Insulate the sidewalls with cellulose insulation installed at a density greater than 3.5
lbs/cubic foot. All cavities must be thoroughly probed prior to the installation.
Insulation coverage must be complete.

4. Compact Fluorescent Lighting

Install 6 compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs in fixtures or lamps that are on in
excess of an average of three hours per day. CFL installations must be in compliance
with the guidelines outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual and the
Appliance Management Program (AMPs). If a utility’s AMP funding is available for
the dwelling unit, those funds should be utilized.

5. Uninsulated Floors (Unconditioned Basements Only)

Insulate the floors of dwelling units with an unconditioned basement with R19
fiberglass batts. The fiberglass must be mechanically fastened and all large series
leakage paths must receive the proper air sealing treatment prior to the installation of
the insulation.

14
5a. or Uninsulated Perimeter

Conditioned or semi-conditioned basements: Insulate the inside of the exposed

foundation walls from the top of the floor joist area to below grade with an R 5 vinyl-
backed duct insulation as per the specifications outlined in the Massachusetts WAP
Technical Manual.

6. Uninsulated Space Heating Ducts or Pipes Uninsulated Space Heating Ducts or Pipes

Insulate the space heating ducts with R-5 duct insulation. The insulation must be
mechanically fastened and all seams on the ductwork must be properly sealed
according to specifications outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual
prior to the installation of the insulation or:

Insulate all uninsulated hydronic or steam pipes with a commercially available pipe
insulation appropriate for the pipe temperature in accordance with the Massachusetts
WAP Technical Manual.

7. Partially Insulated Attic (R-20 to R-25)

Install attic insulation up to an R-38 (R-44 for electric heated homes). The attic must
receive a thorough air sealing protocol, including the moving and replacing of existing
insulation, prior to the installation of the additional insulation.

9 Single Glazed Windows

Electrically Heated Homes: Add storm windows (interior or exterior) to single glazed
windows. All other heat sources: Storm windows shall be added only if the existing
single glazed window is in poor condition. A maximum of $75.00 may be spent on a
standard storm window (88 united inches) and a total of $500 for storm windows on
any individual dwelling unit.

10 Minor General Heat Waste

See Manual Requirements

15
 MULTI-FAMILY (5+Units) PRIORITY LIST

PRIORITY SOURCE OF HEAT LOSS AND REMEDY

1. Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste Reduction

Complete comprehensive Blower Door Directed Air Sealing and seal all exposed
ductwork based on the protocol outlined in this WAP Technical Manual.

1a. Primary Heating System/Distribution System

Complete safety and efficiency improvements on the primary heating system based on the
guidelines outlined in the most recent HEARTWAP Program Guidance. Heating system
work should be referred to HEARTWAP, provided sufficient funds exist.

2. Attic Insulation (R-19 or Less Existing)

Install attic insulation up to R-38 (R-44 for electric heated homes). Attics must receive a
thorough air sealing protocol prior to the installation of insulation.

3. Sidewall Insulation

Insulate the sidewalls with cellulose insulation installed at a density greater than 3.5 lbs/cubic
foot. All cavities must be thoroughly probed prior to the installation. Insulation coverage
must be complete.

4. Compact Fluorescent Lighting

Install 6 compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs in fixtures or lamps that are on in excess of
an average of three hours per day. CFL installations must be in compliance with the
guidelines outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual and the Appliance
Management Program (AMPs). If a utility’s AMP funding is available for the dwelling
unit, those funds should be utilized.

5. Floor Insulation (Unconditioned Basements)

Insulate the floors of dwelling units with an unconditioned basement with R19 fiberglass
batts. The fiberglass must be mechanically fastened and all large series leakage paths
must receive the proper air sealing treatment prior to the installation of the insulation.

16
5a. or Uninsulated Perimeter

Conditioned or semi-conditioned basements: Insulate the inside of the exposed

foundation walls from the top of the floor joist area to below grade with an R 5 vinyl-
backed duct insulation as per the specifications outlined in the Massachusetts WAP
Technical Manual.

6. Uninsulated Space Heating Ducts or Pipes

Insulate the space heating ducts with R5 duct insulation. The insulation must be
mechanically fastened and all seams on the ductwork must be properly sealed according to
specifications outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual prior to the
installation of the insulation.

Or/Insulate all uninsulated hydronic or steam pipes with a commercially available pipe
insulation appropriate for the pipe temperature in accordance with the Massachusetts
WAP Technical Manual.

7. Attic Insulation (R-20 to R-25 Existing)

Install attic insulation up to an R-38 (R-44 for electric heated homes). The attic must
receive a thorough air sealing protocol, including the moving and replacing of existing
insulation, prior to the installation of the additional insulation.

8. Storm Windows

Electrically Heated Homes: Add storm windows (interior or exterior) to single glazed
windows. All other heat sources: Storm windows shall be added only if the existing
single glazed window is in poor condition. A maximum of $75.00 may be spent on a
standard storm window (up to 88 united inches) and a maximum of $500 for storm
windows on any individual dwelling unit.

9. Minor General Heat Waste

See Manual Requirements

17
 MOBILE HOME PRIORITY LIST

PRIORITY SOURCE OF HEAT LOSS AND REMEDY

1. Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste Reduction/Duct Sealing

Complete comprehensive Blower Door Directed Air Sealing and seal all exposed
ductwork based on the protocol outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual.

1a. Primary Heating System

Complete safety and efficiency improvements on the primary heating system based on the
guidelines outlined in the most recent HEARTWAP Program Guidance. Heating system
work should be referred to HEARTWAP provided sufficient funds exist.

2. Roof insulation

3. Floor Insulation

4. Compact Fluorescent Lighting

Install 6 compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs in fixtures or lamps that are on in excess of an
average of three hours per day. CFL installations must be in compliance with the guidelines
outlined in the Massachusetts WAP Technical Manual and the Appliance Management
Program (AMPs). If a utility’s AMP funding is available for the dwelling unit, those funds
should be utilized.

5. Single Glazed Windows

Add interior storm windows to single glazed windows.

6. Window and Door Replacements

Replace prime windows and doors only after all other reasonable repair options have been
considered and rejected.

18
 MASSACHUSETTS WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDANCE

The health and safety of clients, subgrantee staff and contractors is of primary concern to the Bureau of
Energy Programs. It is important that all personnel maintain a high level of awareness concerning the
potential hazards associated with the weatherization process.

The standards set forth in this guidance provide only general guidelines for health and safety concerns.
Subgrantee staff and contractors must familiarize themselves with all the health and safety issues associated
with weatherization. More specific information concerning indoor air quality problems can be obtained
through the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission. Detailed specifications regarding the health and safety of workers in the construction industry
can be found in Construction Industry OSHA Safety and Health Standards (29 CFR 1926/1910) that is
available from the U. S. Department of Labor. These standards are applicable to all workers providing
services using funding under the WAP program.

Weatherization funds may be obligated to correct Health and Safety problems in a client's homes. These
funds may be used only for the "elimination of energy related health and safety hazards which are necessary
before or because of the installation of weatherization materials". Further restrictions on the expenditure of
Weatherization funds are outlined in this guidance. Subgrantees may spend up to $600.00, inclusive of all
other incidental repairs, on an individual dwelling unit for health and safety related repairs. The health and
safety repairs must be reported in the appropriate cost category on the Building Weatherization Report
(BWR). Subgrantees may average up to $85 (material and labor) in health and safety related repairs per
dwelling unit over the course of the Weatherization grant.

Each home weatherized by the WAP must be individually assessed to determine the existence of potential
hazards to workers or clients. If unsafe conditions exist that would endanger the health or safety of the clients
or weatherization workers, and those conditions cannot be corrected, no WAP work may be started on that
home.

WORKERS: The Bureau of Energy Programs allows technical waivers for nonperformance of audits,
installations and/or inspections, or any portion of these functions, if such action will expose
workers to conditions regarded as unsafe or unhealthy as determined by OSHA Construction
Industry Standards.

Each worker is responsible for working in a safe manner so as to not endanger either
themselves or others. Individuals who continue to demonstrate that they are unable to work
in a safe, professional manner will not be retained by the program.

CLIENTS: Subgrantees and their representatives are required to take all reasonable precautions against
performing work on homes that will subject clients to health and safety risks. During the
energy audit process, the energy auditor will make an evaluation of the individual health of
the home's occupants. In cases where a person's health is fragile and/or the weatherization
activities would constitute a health or safety hazard, the occupants will be required to leave
during the work process or the agency and contractor should not begin the work. Work that is
completed should in no way contribute to or create an unhealthy condition in the home. All
problems and concerns must be fully documented in the client file.

19
Client and worker education may be the most important tool in dealing with health and safety concerns in the
Weatherization Program. Educated clients and workers are far more likely to conduct themselves in a manner
that is consistent with program goals.

Indoor Air Quality and Environmental Concerns

Weatherization activities will have a significant effect on how a home works. As building tightness increases
and the infiltration rate decreases, air quality problems can become an unintentional consequence. Low
concentrations of pollutants or water vapor may become higher, potentially dangerous concentrations.
Combustion and venting characteristics of heating systems and domestic hot water heaters may be affected,
causing the release of unhealthy combustion by-products into the living space. It is crucial that the agency
inspector be aware of the interactions between building tightness and potential indoor air quality problems.
Ductwork leakage will play a role in this whole formula. An important part of the initial inspection of the
home must be a thorough evaluation of potential indoor air quality problems.

The initial inspection must include the following:

• Blower Door testing consistent with the WAP Technical Manual

• Carbon Monoxide testing of all combustion appliances.

• Evaluation of the venting system, including backdraft testing, of all vented

appliances.

• A complete evaluation of existing and potential moisture problems.

• A determination of the existence of any one of a number of hazardous substances

(asbestos, lead paint, volatile organic compounds) that may be stored in the home.

If there are existing problems, work must not commence until steps are taken to mitigate the problems.

To ensure that the WAP work that was completed does not create potential problems, each Quality Control
visit must include;

• A final Blower Door test after all work has been completed. This test must be consistent with
the WAP Technical to ensure that building tightness recommendations have not been
exceeded.

• A carbon monoxide test of all combustion appliances.

• A thorough evaluation of the venting characteristics of all combustion appliances, including

testing for spillage and backdrafting.

• An evaluation of the moisture conditions in the home and the attic (if attic work was
completed).

If the final Quality Control inspection indicates that a problem exists, the agency must correct the
problem prior to submitting the unit as a completion.

Following is an overview of some of the potential health and safety risks that may be associated with home
weatherization and suggested approaches to minimize exposure.

20
 Asbestos

Description: Fibrous, non-combustible mineral.

Health/Safety Concerns: Asbestos fibers are microscopic. When disturbed and released into the air, the fibers
can be inhaled. Significant exposure may result in lung cancer, asbestosis or mesothelioma.

Sources in Homes: Until its use was strictly limited in the l970's asbestos was used in a large number of
building products. The most common applications that could involve interaction with weatherization
personnel include:

boiler insulation
furnace insulation
pipe insulation
duct insulation

Workers may encounter asbestos in plaster, joint compound, sidewall and roof shingles, floor tiles and other
building products, particularly when these items are disturbed.

To minimize exposure:

• Learn to recognize suspected asbestos containing materials.

• Avoid disturbance of friable asbestos containing materials (ACM). Friable asbestos is "any material
containing greater than one percent asbestos by weight or volume that hand pressure can crumble,
pulverize or reduce to powder when dry, or any asbestos containing materials that can reasonably be
expected, as a result of the demolition or renovation to be undertaken, to become pulverized through
breaking, chipping, crumbling, crushing, or other means of rendering fibers available to the ambient
air."

• DO NOT CONDUCT A BLOWER DOOR TEST ON A BUILDING WHERE FRIABLE

ASBESTOS IS PRESENT.

• Provide information to clients regarding the existence of suspected ACM and provide client education
advising non-disturbance of such materials.

WAP funds may not be used to complete Asbestos Abatement work unless extreme mitigating factors exist
and DHCD's prior approval is granted ($600 WAP repair maximum).

Asbestos abatement can be completed as part of a heating system replacement consistent with the "Asbestos
Abatement Guidance" of the HEARTWAP Program Guidance.

This information is a general program guidance for Weatherization personnel and does not provide the
detailed specifications for the proper handling of ACM. State law concerning asbestos abatement can
be found in Commonwealth of Mass. Department of Public Health Asbestos Abatement Regulation;
CMR 410.353.

21
 Lead

Description: A metal contained in paints and various other substances.

Health/Safety Concerns: Ingestion or absorption of lead into the blood stream is a serious health hazard
causing brain damage over a period of time. This can be a particularly serious problem with small children,
who may ingest paint chips or flakes, or dust contaminated with lead products. Serious learning disabilities
can result from excessive lead levels in the bloodstream. Workers can be contaminated in the same way as
children, but are most likely to be exposed by breathing dust contaminated by sanding or planing surfaces that
contain lead based paints.

Sources in Homes: Lead paint is the primary source of lead in a home. Contamination occurs when lead paint
is disturbed by sanding, chipping, or flaking. Lead is also present in the solder used in plumbing pipe joints.
Lead can leach into potable water, particularly when water is stagnant in the pipes for a length of time. To a
lesser degree, lead contamination can result from inks used in newspapers and magazines.

To minimize risks to clients and Weatherization personnel:

• DO NOT DISTURB LEAD PAINT, except when absolutely necessary, particularly in homes
with young children. Staff and contractors should assume that any paint on windows and doors
contains lead unless it has been verified otherwise. WHEN THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF
DISTURBING LEAD DURING THE WEATHERIZATION PROCESS, WAP
CONTRACTORS MUST STRICTLY ADHERE TO REQUIRED LEAD-SAFE
PROTOCOLS AS STATED IN HUD’S LEAD PAINT SAFETY FIELD GUIDE FOR
PAINTING, HOME MAINTENANCE AND RENOVATION WORK.

• Provide clients and workers with information regarding the dangers of lead poisoning.

When working on sidewalls that may contain lead based paint, steps should be taken to minimize and
contain debris, paint chips, and to avoid the ingestion of lead dust. These steps must include, but are
not limited to the following:

Keeping children and pets away from the work area.

Covering the ground beneath the work area with six (6) mil. polyethylene plastic or drop
clothes to catch falling debris. Carefully remove the plastic or drop cloth after the work is
completed.

Closing all windows and doors to ensure that dust does not blow into the home.

Worker Protection

Detailed specifications regarding the health and safety of workers in the construction industry
can be found in Construction Industry OSHA Safety and Health Standards (299CFR
1926/1910). Also refer to Section 5.13 Lead- Safe Weatherization within the Northeast
Weatherization Field Guide.

ALL CONTRACTORS WORKING IN THE MASSACHUSETTS WEATHERIZATION

ASSISTANCE PROGRAM MUST RECEIVE LEAD-SAFEWEATHERIZATION TRAINING AND
BE CERTIFIED THROUGH HUD’S LEAD-SAFE RENOVATION PROGRAM.
Generalized lead paint removal is not an allowable activity under the Weatherization Assistance Program.
The information in this guidance is not intended to provide specific information for the proper handling of

22
lead. For detailed information regarding lead paint abatement see Commonwealth of Mass. Publications
454 CMR 22.00 and 460 CMR.

Combustion Systems

Definition: Fuel burning appliance used for water and/or space heating.

Health/Safety Concerns:

• Combustion of surrounding materials resulting from unsafe operation of the heating system.

• Release of unhealthy combustion products into the home environment due to a cracked heat
exchanger, improper venting, spillage, or backdrafting of the appliance. Many combustion
byproducts have significant adverse health effects. Some of these byproducts include, carbon
monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. Each byproduct
may have specific health related problems depending on the concentration.

• Health hazards resulting from dysfunctional heating system (no heat).

• Gas leaks - risk of contamination of house air or explosion.

• Scalding due to water temperature set too high.

To minimize risks:

• Provide proper clearances, as required by the appropriate building code, between combustible
materials and wood/coal stoves, kerosene heaters, furnaces, boilers, water heaters and flues. The
National Fire Prevention Association's Manual on Clearances for Heat Producing Appliances
provides a listing of minimum clearances for most combustion appliances.

• IF THERE IS AN UNVENTED COMBUSTION SPACE HEATER BEING USED IN THE

BUILDING, THE AGENCY POLICY MUST BE TO DECLINE WEATHERIZATION
SERVICES UNTIL THE CLIENT SIGNS AN AGREEMENT THAT THE HEATER WILL
BE REMOVED FROM THE DWELLING AND WILL NOT BE USED AFTER THE WORK
HAS BEEN COMPLETED.

Be certain that all heating appliances and water heaters have an adequate venting system, sufficient
draft, no spillage of combustion products, no backdrafting when all exhaust fans are running. Test for
carbon monoxide before and after Weatherization and service all appliances that exhibit more than
100 ppm in the combustion products. All homes with vented appliances must receive a backdraft test.
Be certain that the air handler of forced warm air furnaces are not contributing to backdrafting
problems. If the test demonstrates a backdraft problem, the agency must take the necessary steps to
rectify the situation. The results of the test and/or the resolution of any problems must be documented
in the client file.

• Test the ambient air around combustion appliances, including gas ranges, for carbon monoxide after
about 5-10 minutes of stove operation. Those that create CO levels in excess of 9 ppm in the ambient
air must be serviced. Ambient air should be tested in an area around the combustion appliance where
a client is likely to be standing.

• Be certain that the furnace heat exchanger is not cracked.

23
• Provide adequate combustion air for all combustion systems.

• For wood and coal stoves, provide a clean chimney. For any unvented space heating appliances,
provide client education regarding the health and safety hazards associated with the operation of such
equipment, and do not start any weatherization work in homes with improperly vented heating
equipment until the problems are corrected.

• Check for and repair all gas leaks.

• Turn down water heater temperatures when necessary.

WAP Repair and/or Health and Safety Repair funds may be used to correct problems in combustion
appliances, including water heaters and dryers. Problems with space heating appliances may be referred to the
HEARTWAP Program, provided that the required work can be completed before the WAP work begins. In
homes that are occupied by tenants, any combustion problems that are created by gas cook stoves and ovens
and improperly vented domestic hot water heaters are the responsibility of the property owner.

Carbon Monoxide

While carbon monoxide is a by-product of combustion systems, and as such was addressed in the previous
section of this guidance, the potential for serious injury and death from this gas warrants that it be addressed
separately.

Carbon monoxide is a product of incomplete (poor) combustion. It is a direct and cumulative poison. When
combined with blood hemoglobin, CO replaces oxygen in the blood until it completely overcomes the body.
Low level CO poisoning symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, convulsions,
sleepiness, stinging eyes, and loss of muscular control. Death from CO poisoning occurs suddenly. The
victim inhaling the toxic concentration of the gas may become helpless before realizing that danger exists.

To minimize risks of CO exposure;

• Provide for the proper ventilation of all combustion appliances.

• Test for spillage, backdrafting, and CO levels of gas fired appliances prior to beginning and upon
completion of all WAP jobs. To ensure the safety of the occupants DHCD has set a maximum CO
level in flue gas products of 100 ppm. The maximum allowable CO level in ambient air surrounding
an appliance is 9 ppm.

• Provide any required service of combustion appliances that exhibit high levels of CO in the flue gases
or ambient air.

• Test the operation of all gas fired cook stoves and ovens after 5-10 minutes of operation. Ambient air
CO readings near the range should not exceed 9 ppm.

• Inform clients if a CO problem exists and recommend any temporary action to ensure client safety
until the offending appliance can be serviced. Conduct no weatherization activities that will tighten
the home until it can be verified that the CO problem has been resolved.

The effects of Carbon Monoxide poisoning are cumulative. Effects can vary significantly
based on age, sex, weight, and overall state of health. Children, the elderly, and the infirm
may be seriously effected by even low levels of CO depending on the concentration and
exposure period.

24
 Other Air Quality Concerns

In addition to asbestos, lead, and combustion systems, there are a number of other sources of indoor air
pollutants in homes that may present health risks to clients. Awareness of indoor air pollutants and attention
on the part of weatherization personnel to the level of air-tightening measures performed on a home will aid in
the prevention of making a bad situation worse. Blower door testing provides important information about air
leakage levels in homes. Weatherization personnel also must be aware of mechanisms by which pollutants
may enter the living space.

A. Biologicals - Molds, mildews, and spores, primarily caused by excessive moisture levels in a home.
These substances can be a significant contributing factor in a number of health problems. Excessive
moisture in a home provides an environment that allows molds and mildews to flourish. Homes with
potential moisture problems should not be tightened until measures are taken to mitigate the moisture
sources. The medical profession may misdiagnose many bronchial or asthma problems as being a
result of "dry air" due to the presence of a forced warm air heating system. The professional may
suggest adding a humidifier to the home when the actual problem may be a result of too much
moisture in the home, allowing the growth of molds, mildews, and fungal spores.

B. Radon - An odorless, colorless gas that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. Long-term exposure to
elevated levels may cause lung cancer. Radon mitigation is not an allowable activity under the WAP.
In homes where there is an existing identified radon problem, work that would exacerbate this
problem must be limited.

C. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) - Cleaning fluids, paints, solvents, herbicides, pesticides, and
formaldehyde. VOCs are known to be potential irritants to lungs, eyes, and skin. Some VOC's may
be carcinogenic. Frequently stored under sinks, in closets, and basements. Formaldehyde may be
found in a variety of building components including plywood, carpeting, and particleboards.
Recommend moving potentially dangerous material outside of living space into sheds or garages.
Basements are not recommended for storage, particularly if leaky ductwork exists.

D. Airborne Particulate Matter - (primarily tobacco smoke or smoke from improperly vented wood
stoves). Known to cause lung cancer. Excessive air tightening can increase levels of carcinogenic by-
products in homes. Homes with high levels of tobacco smoke or other indoor pollutants should not
be over tightened.

E. Fiberglass - Fibrous glass insulation material. Fiberglass is known to be an irritant to lungs, eyes and
skin. Most preliminary research indicates no long-term negative health effects resulting from
exposure to high levels of fiberglass, but some studies have indicated that some types of finely
chopped blown-in fiberglass may be a potential carcinogen. Exposed fiberglass should not be left in
occupied areas of homes. Workers are advised to wear properly rated respirators and protective
clothing when working with or around fiberglass.

To minimize risks associated with indoor air pollutants;

• Provide client education concerning indoor air quality issues; inform clients about potentially
dangerous materials being stored in the home, problems associated with excessive moisture and
recommend solutions.

• Identify potential moisture problems. Look for evidence of problems. Identify sources of moisture.
Some potential sources of excessive moisture in a home include;

Dirt crawlspaces with no vapor barrier, standing water in the basement or crawlspace,
unvented (or defective) combustion appliances, unvented clothes dryers, firewood stored in

25
 the basement or living space, excessive house plants, large number of inhabitants in small
living space, defective plumbing, defective or nonexistent gutters and downspouts.

• Identify all potential sources of indoor pollutants and eliminate, mitigate or ventilate at the source to
the greatest degree possible.

• Take pre and post WAP blower door tests, determine air leakage rates, and avoid overtightening
homes, especially those with potential indoor air quality problems.

• Control ductwork leakage that may introduce pollutants into the living space. Leaking return
ductwork is a major problem in that they can create high negative pressures in the area they are
located, and as a result will take whatever pollutants may be in the area surrounding the ductwork,
and distribute the pollutants throughout the house. In addition, the negative pressures of leaky returns
can cause backdrafting of combustion appliances and also cause the introduction of radon gas into
basement areas.

Wiring

Safety Concerns:

• Electric shock while working around wiring in all areas of homes.

• Fire resulting from arcing between loose wiring connections.

• Fire resulting from lack of dissipation of heat due to insulation around heat producing sources.

• Integrity and safety of knob and tube wiring.

To Minimize Risk:

• Workers must demonstrate caution when working around wiring.

• Verify proper wiring connections and proper fusing.

• Verify proper blocking out of insulation around heat producing sources.

• A Licensed electrician must inspect knob and tube wiring and certify its safety, prior to installing
insulation (see Attachment A).

26
 Plumbing

Health Concerns:

• Problems resulting from exposure to raw sewage or methane gas.

• Problems resulting from lack of water due to frozen pipes.

To minimize exposure:

• Workers must take precautions to avoid direct contact with raw sewage or other unsanitary
conditions. Plumbing fixtures must be properly vented to code to avoid build up of methane gas.
Clients must be informed of existing conditions and referred to available resources for assistance.

• Workers must take precautions to avoid creating circumstances which will allow pipes to freeze.

General Workmanship Practices

Chapter XVII, subpart c, item 1926.20 of the Construction Industry OSHA Standards (29 CFR 1926/1910
states: "no contractor or subcontractor for any part of the contract work shall require any laborer or mechanic
employed in the performance of the contract to work in surroundings or under working conditions which are
unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to his health or safety.

Accident Prevention Responsibilities

(1) It shall be the responsibility of the employer to initiate and maintain such programs as may be
necessary to comply with this part.

(2) Such programs shall provide for frequent and regular inspections of the job sites, materials, and
equipment to be made by competent persons designated by the employers.

(3) The use of any machinery, tool, material, or equipment that is not in compliance with any applicable
requirement of this part is prohibited. Such machine, tool, material, or equipment shall either be
identified as unsafe by tagging or locking the controls to render it inoperable or shall be physically
removed from its place of operation.

(4) The employer shall permit only those employees qualified by training or experience to operate
equipment and machinery."

All WAP personnel, including contractors, working in the Program must conduct themselves within the
requirements cited by OSHA. All workers are required to exhibit caution and care during the course of work
on the client's homes.

• Use care when working on ladders, in attics, in constricted spaces, or any potentially dangerous
situations.

• Use power tools only if familiar with conditions and proper operation of equipment. Be certain that
the tools are in good operating condition.

• Wear respirators, protective eye-wear and protective clothing when necessary.

• Provide appropriate clean-up following completion of work.

27
• Assess structural conditions and demonstrate caution when working in potentially dangerous areas
(i.e., on roofs, in attics).

• Do not take foolish chances.

These and other issues are discussed in detail in the OSHA Construction Industry Standards. Subgrantee staff
and contractors must become familiar with these regulations. Questions regarding health and safety concerns
should be referred to the Bureau of Energy Programs.

28
 Backdrafting

Houses with vented combustion appliances must be tested for spillage and backdrafting as a routine part of the
Weatherization process to ensure that the unhealthy byproducts of combustion are not released into the home.
Backdrafting occurs when negative pressures caused by exhaust fans or forced warm air distribution fans
exceed the ability of the combustion appliance to create or sustain an adequate draft. Backdrafting may occur
at anytime during the run cycle of the combustion appliance. If sufficient negative pressures exist in the room
where the appliance is located at the start of a run cycle the appliance may never establish a draft and may
backdraft for the entire run cycle. The pressures that are needed to create a backdrafting situation are not that
great. Natural draft combustion appliances such as gas fired domestic hot water heaters will create only 4-5
pascals (Pa) pressure, the fan of a forced warm air furnace distribution system may create up to 30 p. in the
ductwork. Return duct leakage, particularly any leaks that are located near the flue pipe, could cause enough
negative pressures in the basement to overcome the draft. Other potential problems include any kitchen or
bath fans, fireplaces, wood or coal stoves or anything that exhausts air out of the home. Any Weatherization
process that contributes to tightening the home, thereby reducing the available make-up air for any exhaust
fan, could cause the combustion appliance to backdraft to supply the required makeup air.

Conducting a Backdraft Test

There are a couple of methods that may be used to conduct a backdraft test. The first involves a
mechanical approach using smoke, or a draft gauge. The second, more accurate method involves pressure
testing.

Simplified Backdraft testing procedure;

•Put the house in the worst-case winter mode, all exterior doors and windows closed. Turn on all exhaust
appliances, furnaces, boilers, water heaters, clothes dryers, and the furnace fan, if applicable. Then, using
a draft or pressure gauge, check the exhaust stream of all vented appliances to be certain that there is
adequate draft. An alternative to using the draft or pressure gauge is to use a source of smoke at the draft
hood or barometric damper of each vented appliance and ascertain that the appliance is drafting properly.
If the smoke or air is not moving rapidly up the chimney while all the exhausts and FWA distribution fans
are running, a backdrafting problem may exist.

Pressure testing method;

• Put the house in the winter mode, with all exterior doors and windows closed.

• Close all interior doors.

• Turn on the furnace fan, if applicable.

• Close the door leading to the room that contains the vented appliance and measure the pressure
difference across that door while the distribution fan and any other exhaust devices located in that
room are operating. A negative pressure across the furnace room door is not acceptable. There
should be either no pressure difference or a slight positive pressure in the furnace room.

• Open the door to the furnace room. Turn on all exhaust devices throughout the house and leave
any doors between those devices and furnace room open. Measure the pressure difference
between the furnace room and the exterior of the house by running a hose attached to the pressure
gauge to a penetration outside the house.

29
• Use the House Depressurization Limits (HDL) table to determine the maximum level of
depressurization that is acceptable, based on the heating unit.

• If the depressurization measured in the furnace area is higher than the limited indicated by the
table, then the vented combustion appliances are susceptible to extended periods of backdrafting
or spillage when exhaust devices are in operation.

House Depressurization Limits

Heating Appliance HDL in Pascals

Gas Combustion Unit, Natural Draft 5

Interior Combustion Air
Oil Combustion Unit, Natural Draft 5
Interior Combustion Air
Fireplace, Natural Draft Interior 5
Combustion Air

Air tight Woodstove 10

Induced Draft Appliance 10

If a home fails a backdraft test, it is crucial that the agency develop a strategy to alleviate the problem.
The venting system of the offending appliance must be thoroughly checked for any problems or
obstructions. Providing external combustion air to the appliance may help. Sealing leaks on the return
side of forced warm air distribution systems also may help. Sometimes the basement perimeter must be
left deliberately leaky to prevent negative pressure build up in the basement.

30
 MAJOR AIR SEALING/ GENERAL HEAT WASTE

The Major Air Sealing/General Heat categories are to be considered as Priority #1 for all housing types and
include the following mandatory weatherization measures which must be completed, if applicable, before
advancing to any subsequent priority item.

• Seal major bypasses with emphasis on those in the attic

• Seal appropriate key junctures
• Limited weatherstripping and interior caulking as needed for gross air leakage and to increase
comfort
• Seal warm air ductwork joints (supplies and returns) and repair all duct leaks as needed
• Domestic hot water (DHW) tank insulation (R-5) and first six (6) feet of DHW pipe
• Fireplace damper
• Weatherstrip doors as needed

MINOR GENERAL HEAT WASTE

The Minor General Heat Waste category is a list of additional measures that may be implemented upon
completion of all other applicable energy conservation measures.

• Electrical outlet/switch gaskets

• Low Flow Showerhead
• Water Faucet Aerators
• DHW Pipe Insulation beyond the first six (6) feet
• Sill insulation (faced R-11 fiberglass)

31
 MAJOR AIR SEALING PRIORITIES

Blower door directed air sealing is a comprehensive approach to controlling infiltration in a home. A well
developed air sealing strategy can make a home less drafty, more comfortable, and increase the
effectiveness of insulation measures by blocking off thermal bypasses. However, any work that reduces
the air infiltration rate, must also address concerns about indoor air quality and the venting of combustion
by-products. Before any work is completed on a home there must be a thorough evaluation of the home
to identify and provide solutions for a variety of potential indoor air quality problems and combustion
system venting requirements. These concerns and a required protocol are addressed in the DHCD
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDANCE. Required at a minimum is an evaluation and mitigation of
potential indoor air quality problems, including moisture problems, carbon monoxide testing of all
combustion appliances, and backdraft testing of all vented combustion appliances. All evaluations,
testing, and mitigation must be completed both before the weatherization work is started, and after all
weatherization work is completed.

All single family and mobile homes must receive a pre-WAP and post-WAP single point blower door test
which will provide the subgrantee with a pre and post cubic feet per minute infiltration rate at fifty Pascal
(cfm 50). DHCD strongly encourages the use of blower door testing in multi family homes. The results
of the tests must be recorded and included as part of the WAP audit and quality control information. This
requirement can only be waived if there are justifiable concerns over the health and safety of the
occupants or testers being compromised by conducting the blower door test (i.e. friable asbestos present
in the home). Any justification for not completing the test must be included in the WAP client file. The
blower door test may be completed by the WAP auditor or a contractor, but if the contractor is completing
the test, the subgrantee must be able to verify the results. Conducting the initial test with the contractor is
strongly encouraged. This will give the auditor and the contractor the opportunity to discuss the results of
the test, identify major air leakage areas, and to discuss the proposed work.

Since the standard cfm 50 test does not incorporate the volume of the house, DHCD recommends that
auditors become familiar with and calculate the Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pascal (ACH50) and the Air
Changes Natural (ACHN) and use the resulting information to assist in prioritizing an air sealing strategy.

Prioritizing the air sealing work must involve an understanding of how air moves and leaks through the
building envelope, estimating the resources (and dollars) that should be devoted to air sealing, (based on
the air leakage rate and the amount and type of other work required on the home), and understanding the
interactions that occur between the structural and mechanical systems of the home. The auditor and
Weatherization contractor must become familiar with effective
air sealing techniques and materials. The auditor must also be
aware of the recommended Building Tightness Limits (BTL), the
interaction of some insulation measures, (primarily wall
insulation) with the infiltration rate, and the effect that reducing
the infiltration rate will have on the concentration of indoor air
pollutants and the venting of combustion appliances.

Comprehensive targeted attic air sealing should always precede

attic insulation. Together these weatherization measures form
the most cost-effective durable and practical improvement
available to site-built homes with insulation levels at or below R-
19.

In order for a leak to occur in a building, there must be two components, a hole, and a driving force to
move the air through the hole. The amount of leakage through any hole is directly proportional to the size
of the hole and the amount of pressure across the hole. It therefore makes the most sense to concentrate

32
initial air sealing efforts in the areas with the largest holes that are
under the highest pressure. Due to the stack effect creating high
exfiltration pressures in the upper regions of the building and the
large number of potential holes or bypasses in the attic/living space
interface, a large amount of the initial air sealing efforts should be
focused on identifying and sealing air leakage areas to the attic.

Many of the leakage areas to the attic are actually part of a series
leak that may end up either in the living space or the basement. In
most of these series leaks, if the leak is controlled in the attic, there
is no need to seal the other areas in the series. Some of these potential leakage areas include: chimney
chases, plumbing chases, bathroom plumbing walls, attic accessways (including pulldown stairways),
open or unsealed top plates, especially in balloon framed homes, the center bearing wall top plate
especially in modular homes, split levels and balloon framed structures, around electrical junction boxes.

Another area that merits careful inspection and evaluation is

a number of key junctures in the home. Anytime that there is
a junction of dissimilar materials or areas of structural
change in the building, the potential for significant leakage
areas exist. Particularly problematic is the kneewall/kneewall
floor junction in the Cape Cod style home. In many Capes
there is a direct connection between the joist space between
the first and second floors of the home and the outside. If
this is the case, one of the most cost effective air sealing
measures will be to air seal that transition area.

Other key juncture areas to

pay particular attention to
include, cantilevered floor
areas, offset floors and ceilings, the central wall of split-level homes, and
the wall/roof area where a roofed porch meets the sidewall of the home.
Porch roof/wall intersections have two major potential problem areas.
First, many ceiling areas of porches are created as
extensions of the home’s ceiling joists, leaving an
open cavity from above the porch ceiling into the
area between the floors. The second problem in
this area is that in older homes with plank (rather than plywood) sheathing, the
area between the porch roof and ceiling may be open to the sidewall cavity. In
many homes, the gable end studs may be balloon framed. If this condition exists,
special attention to this area is warranted.

The sidewalls of balloon-framed structures are a major air leakage problem. Since
by design, the framework is open at the bottom and top of each bay and into each
joist cavity between floors, balloon framed walls communicate directly from the
basement to the attic and between the floors throughout the building. Insulating
the walls with dense pack cellulose is a very cost effective solution to the problem.
In many balloon-framed homes the central bearing partition is also balloon framed
and should be air sealed in the attic (and in the basement if needed).

33
 Split level homes pose many
potential air leakage areas
particularly any wall cavities
connected to ventilated attics or
crawlspaces.

See the accompanying diagrams to assist in identifying some of the areas to

concentrate the structural air sealing efforts.

Special attention must also be paid to the mechanical systems of homes with a forced warm air
distribution system. The ductwork of many forced warm air systems leak extensively. Leaking ductwork
can contribute a significant amount to the cfm 50 leakage identified by the blower door test. In addition,
since the ductwork is operating under very high pressure created by the distribution fan, the effects of
duct work leakage is exaggerated significantly. Leakage on the
supply side of the distribution system, both in the seams of the
ductwork, and in any breaks or disconnected ductwork, waste heat
in an area that is generally unintended to be heated and may cause
areas of the home to be inadequately heated. The return side of the
ductwork is usually leakier, since the installing contractor generally
paid less attention to the return side connections. The seams of
panned floor joists used as a return line may leak extensively. In
addition, in most homes there is significantly less return side air
than on the supply side, causing the distribution system to get a
large portion of its return air through the cracks in the return ductwork. This phenomenon can cause
significant negative pressures in the basement, enough to backdraft combustion appliances. Sealing and
repairing both the supply and return side of forced warm air distribution systems are a very important
component of any air sealing protocol.

While leaking ductwork can be a

significant contributor to the overall
infiltration rate, the very presence of the
warm air system provides the auditor
with two potential air sealing problems.
First, the existence of a powerful fan to
distribute the heated air throughout the
house creates high pressure differences while the fan is operating,
exaggerating any existing leakage areas by blowing heated air through the
holes. Second, since most distribution systems are poorly balanced and
have insufficient returns in many rooms, different parts of the home may be
experiencing vastly different levels of exfiltration or infiltration pressures.
It is important for the auditor to recognize this phenomenon and pay
particular attention to the air sealing of homes with forced warm air
systems.

There are also occasions when air sealing work in the basement of the home
makes sense. Large plumbing chaseway leaks, especially cutouts under the
bathtub, may be part of a series leak that cannot effectively be sealed in the
attic. Chimney chases that can be effectively sealed in the attic, need not be sealed in the basement.
Large leakage areas in the foundation wall, cellar access doors, and cellar windows may be easy to seal at
a low cost. Auditors must use caution when sealing the basement perimeter if those leaks are the primary
source of combustion and ventilation make-up air for combustion appliances located in the basement. It
34
is important to allow for sufficient air for proper ventilation and combustion and to prevent depressurizing
the area where combustion appliances are located.

The living spaces of homes are also areas that may need to receive air sealing work. Any obvious leaks
directly to the outside, such as missing or broken glass, should be repaired. The fireplace and its damper
is a potentially large hole with a built in stack that should be addressed when needed. Occupants tend not
to feel leakage around the fireplace since they tend to exfiltrate large volumes of air, creating a draft of
makeup air somewhere else in the home. Homeowner’s frequently leave the damper open without
realizing it. A commercially available “air pillow Draftstopper” or a plywood hatch can be used to stop
the leak. Large holes in ceilings and walls should be repaired. Doors between heated and unheated
spaces may need to be weatherstripped. Extremely loose windows, particularly those in the spaces
frequently used by the occupants, may need to be tightened but should be done so only when absolutely
needed. The area above any suspended ceiling should be investigated and repaired as needed.
The auditor and WAP contractor must also consider the
impact of wall insulation on the infiltration rate in the home.
Dense pack cellulose (installed at 3.5-4.5 lbs. per sq. ft) is a
very effective air sealing measure and may significantly
reduce air flow through the wall cavity. If walls are to be
completed on a home, particularly one with a balloon frame,
the contractor should consider this as a factor in the total air
sealing package. In fact dense packing walls with cellulose
may be the most cost effective measure that can be
completed on many homes, (i.e. those with some existing
attic insulation), considering combined infiltration and
conductive loss reductions.

As important as where to complete the air sealing work, is

consideration as to how tight a house can be air sealed and
still maintain acceptable, safe indoor air quality. Homes must have some ventilation to provide a supply
of clean, fresh air to maintain an acceptable level of indoor air quality and to provide adequate air for
combustion appliances. While DHCD has provided a chart of minimum acceptable Building Tightness
Limits (BTL) it is important to recognize that homes with high source strength pollutants or high
background moisture levels that cannot be mitigated should not be tightened and the proper venting of
combustion appliances must be established through backdraft testing. Following are the minimum
acceptable Building Tightness Limits in the Massachusetts Weatherization Assistance Program with the
conditions outlined below:

BUILDING TIGHTNESS LIMITS

(cfm/50 minimum)

Number of Stories 1 1.5 2 3

Well Shielded 1,665 1,500 1,330 1,165

Normal 1,390 1,250 1,110 1,000
Exposed 1,250 1,125 1,000 1,000

35
Shielding Factors:

Well Shielded Urban areas surrounded by buildings.

Building surrounded by trees, bermed earth, protected by hillside.

Normal Residential neighborhood with yard space between buildings.

80-90% of houses will fall into this category.

Exposed Buildings in a very open setting, limited trees, few buildings

Buildings on top of a hill or exposed to open ocean or large lakes.

These Building Tightness Limits are based on five (5) occupants in the home. Add approximately 200
cfm/50 per person for larger households. This chart also assumes no high source strength pollutants. The
cfm/50 must be raised for smokers, homes with high levels of moisture or any other indoor air quality
concerns that cannot be mitigated. Homes with serious indoor air quality problems should receive no air
sealing work until the problems can be corrected.

These BTLs do not consider minimum safe depressurization levels to provide for the proper ventilation of
combustion appliances. Backdraft testing must be completed to ensure that all vented combustion
appliances are safely venting to the outside in the worst-case depressurization conditions. Providing
combustion air will not necessarily solve a backdraft problem if depressurization levels are high enough.

Auditors must also consider what is a reasonable investment in program resources for air sealing
measures. The most effective air sealing techniques are generally not very costly in materials and labor,
though some measures may require work in less than desirable locations. The goal in any air sealing
strategy is to complete the most effective air sealing for a reasonable cost. The aim is to locate and seal
the largest holes in the most important locations and to regularly test the effectiveness of the work using
the blower door. The WAP contractor must concentrate their initial air sealing efforts at identifying and
sealing the largest holes in the most crucial areas rather than spend a lot of time sealing smaller less
significant leaks. The initial efforts must be aimed at identifying major bypasses into the attic, key
juncture leakage areas, balloon frame bypasses, bypasses that start in the basement and end in the attic,
and any large leakage areas that lead directly into the living spaces from the outside (broken glass, holes
in the walls).

Blower door directed air sealing should continue until the contractor
reaches the minimum BTL or the work that is being completed is no
longer cost effective. Contractors should take regular blower door tests
during the air sealing work to determine the effectiveness of the work that
has been completed. It is generally not cost effective for a contractor to
spend a lot of time (and money) attempting to locate and seal small, insignificant leaks. In most homes,
the cost of the air sealing work should not exceed $200-300 (exclusive of wall insulation or sealing key
junctures that involve the blowing of dense pack cellulose). WAP Auditors must work closely with the
contractors to clearly specify the areas to receive air sealing work, and how much work is to be
completed. If contractors locate additional areas in need of work, or require additional time to complete
their air sealing work, there must be documentation of authorization of the additional work. If contractors
are paid by the hour for materials and labor to complete air-sealing work, the contractor’s invoice must
document the measures completed for the time allocated.

36
Techniques and materials used to accomplish air-sealing measures must be appropriate to the area being
sealed. Chimney chases must be sealed with a fire retardant material such as flashing or sheet metal,
caulked with an appropriate high temperature sealant such as furnace cement. Large holes should be
blocked off with a solid material such as rigid foam board, plywood, or
sheetrock. Many times scraps of materials can be used. The solid
blocking must be fastened in place and caulked or sealed along the
edges as needed. Fiberglass stuffed into a hole is not an effective air
sealant. One of the more useful materials for air sealing is expanding
urethane foam. The urethane foam can fill cracks and holes that are too
large for caulking and the expanding nature of the product allows it to
effectively fill odd sized or shaped openings. Duct sealing is best
accomplished with
commercially available latex mastic or butyl backed
aluminized tapes.

Dense pack cellulose can be a very effective air sealing

measure because its effect is twofold: it both stops air
movement and reduces convective losses by increasing the R
value. In addition, dense pack cellulose can be installed in
areas that may be difficult to access in any other way.
Generally, dense pack cellulose can be installed anywhere a
contractor can drill a hole, insert a fill tube, and pack a cavity
space at a density between than 3.5-4.5 lbs. per cubic foot.

Multifamily homes present an air-sealing dilemma. Blower door test readings may be difficult to
evaluate. Tests that are conducted on individual units within a multifamily building can be misleading
because many leaks can occur between apartments rather than to the outside and it may be difficult to
determine which leaks are effective to repair. It also may be impossible to arrange with all the occupants
of a multifamily to conduct a blower door test on the entire building. However, multifamily homes
generally have significantly larger air sealing needs than smaller single families. Plumbing and chimney
chases tend to be larger, many contain large, visible leaks and chaseways in the attic. Most tend to be
older, and contain construction details that include leaking key junctures. Some buildings are in very
poor repair. Many are balloon framed, both on the outside walls and the central bearing partition.
Because of the large leakage potential, it is crucial that the WAP Auditor thoroughly evaluate the air
sealing needs and make a complete visual inspection whether a blower door is used or not. Auditors must
specify areas to be addressed as part of the work order. DHCD strongly recommends the use of the
blower door on multifamily homes, primarily as a tool to identify the air sealing needs of the unit.

Air sealing efforts in multifamily homes should be directed at large bypasses that lead to the attic, series
leaks, identifying and sealing key junctures, ductwork leakage, and repairing any obvious direct leaks to
the outside that are in the living space (i.e. broken or missing glass, holes in the walls, fireplaces with no
or ill-fitting dampers).

Blower door directed air sealing should be a systematic approach to reducing the infiltration rate in a
building as cost effectively as possible. It is important that contractors not spend a lot of time (and
money) looking for and sealing small, inconsequential leaks. WAP Auditors and contractors must
understand the concepts of air sealing, and implement an effective protocol on each home weatherized.
Close coordination and communication between the auditor and the contractor can ensure implementation
of the desired goals. Seal large, cheap to fix leaks in the most important areas first. Test often to check
the effectiveness of the work completed. Spend as little money as feasible to effectively air seal the home
to ensure health and safety and increase client comfort, energy savings, and the effectiveness of the
insulation installed.

37
 CONDUCTING A ONE POINT BLOWER DOOR TEST

A. Prepare the House

Perform a walk-through inspection of the home. Pick a door to the outside (or
a reasonably open unheated porch) that will be free of obstructions within at
least a couple feet of the fan outlet. Close all windows (including storm
windows) and lock sash locks. All doors to interior rooms should be open.
The home should be set up the way the homeowner would typically have it on
a winter day. Turn the heating system off. The best way to do this is to turn
off the Serviceman, or Customer Emergency Switch. If neither is available
turn the thermostat down as low as it will go. If there is a gas-fired domestic
hot water heater turn the gas valve to PILOT POSITION. Do not turn to
OFF. If the home has a fireplace with doors, close the doors tightly. If no
doors exist and there are ashes in the firebox, first be certain that they are not
hot, then the ashes can be covered with dampened newspaper to be certain
that they are not blown into the living space. If the home has a woodstove, be
certain that it is not operating, and close the doors as tightly as possible. If the stove is warm you will not be
able to take a depressurization test of the home.

B. Set up the Blower Door

Set up the Blower door according to the manufacturer's instructions in the appropriate opening. Keep the fan
opening closed by either the fan cap on the older model doors or the low flow plates on the newer model and
extend the hose from the top HOUSE PRESSURE gauge through the hole in the top panel. If the house
pressure gauge fluctuates from the wind, install restrictors in both the house and fan pressure hoses according
to manufacturer's recommendations. Adjust the house pressure gauge to 0 with a small screwdriver. Adjust
the fan pressure gauges (bottom two gauges) to 0 and connect to the appropriate pressure tap on the fan. The
procedure of zeroing the gauges should be done each time the door is set up to ensure accuracy of the
readings.

C. Conduct the One Point Blower Door Test

Unless the house is obviously leaky, start the test with the low flow plate installed on the old style door or the
outer ring installed on the new style doors. Slowly turn the fan speed up until the house pressure gauge reads
50 Pascal. If the house cannot be pressurized to 50, remove the low flow plate and try again.

When the house pressure stabilizes at 50 Pascal, record the fan pressure and determine the cubic feet per
minute of air flow either by the appropriate chart, or read it directly off the gauge on the newer models. Be
certain to read the correct line on the chart or the gauge depending on whether or not low flow plates are
installed on the fan. This number is the cubic feet of air leakage per minute at 50 Pascal (cfm@50). If the
door will not depressurize the home to 50 Pascal even with the open fan, first recheck the house to make
certain that all doors, windows and other potential openings are completely closed. If the door still cannot
reach fifty, raise the pressure to the highest round number 20, 25, 30, etc. that can be achieved and record both
that number and the fan pressure. Determine the cfm reading and multiply that number by the "Can't Reach
Fifty" (CRF) factor listed below. For example, if the house pressure with the open fan can only be brought up
to 40 Pascal and the fan pressure at that level is 90 Pascal, the actual cfm @ 50 Pascal is 3882 (3235 Pascal
read off chart multiplied times "can't reach 50" number for 40 Pascal (1.2).

38
 House Pressure Achieved CRF Factor
25 1.6
30 1.4
35 1.3
40 1.2
45 1.1

This completes the One Point Test. This number, CFM@50, is the standard used by the air sealing industry to
evaluate the tightness of a home.

D. Finishing the Blower Door Test

When all testing is completed, including determining the infiltration rate and locating the major air leaks, be
certain to restore the home to its original condition. Replace any furniture that may have been moved. Turn the
heating system and water heater back on. Make sure pilot lights are on and heating systems and DHW heaters
are operating properly before leaving the home. Restore any woodstove or fireplace to its original condition.

39
 WEATHERSTRIPPING

1. Requirements:

Windows: Only extremely loose or drafty movable prime windows which separate
conditioned from unconditioned space should be weatherstripped.

Doors: Doors which lead from a conditioned to an unconditioned space, such as basements,
attics, or hallways are to be weatherstripped when needed.

2. Material Standards:

Although the DOE sets the standard for weatherstripping at "commercial availability", the Bureau of
Energy Programs requires the installation of a permanent weatherstripping product that has a
minimum effective life of ten (10) years.

3. Recommendations:

Doors: Rigid metal or wood with a flexible vinyl or silicone weatherstrip.

Windows: Vinyl premolded v-strip or spring metal for double-hung-type windows and gasket-
type weatherstrip for metal basement windows. Adhesive backed weatherstripping
must be stapled or tacked in place. Stationary or fixed windows must be thoroughly
caulked.

NOTE: Windows can often be tightened most efficiently simply by adjusting the stops and
installing a good sash lock. Side locks are also an efficient alternative to
weatherstripping.

40
 WATER HEATER INSULATION

1. Definition:

A material primarily designed to resist heat flow and suitable for wrapping around the exterior surface
of the water heater casing.

2. Requirements and Conditions:

A. Always inspect tank to determine type of fuel (oil, gas, electric) and venting requirements.

1. If an unvented gas unit is found, vent before proceeding with insulation or any other
measure and charge the materials to the incidental repairs cost category.

B. Obtain occupant permission for reducing hot water heater temperature setting to 130o F.

C. Insulate hot water heaters (gas, electric, oil) to a minimum R-5.

1. Use either duct wrap or insulation kits specifically designed for hot water heaters.

3. Installation Standards:

A. Apply the insulation to the water heater with the facing to the outside.

B. Secure the sections of insulation by stapling or strapping, in addition to, using high
temperature tape.

C. Do not install insulation over the water heater operating instructions and other components
identified below.

4. Procedures:

A. Electric Resistance Water Heater

1. Determine the location of pressure relief valve, thermostat control, and high limit
switch.

2. Install insulation on the sides and top plate.

3 Cut the insulation to leave holes for the pressure relief valve and plumbing pipes.

4. Cut the jacket for access plates.

B. Gas-Fired Water Heater

1. Determine the location of vent damper. Do not insulate gas-fired water heaters so
equipped.

2. Determine the location of the pressure relief valve.

41
 3. Determine the location of the burner air inlet, pilot light access plate, and drain
valve.

4. Do not install insulation on the top plate.

5. Cut the insulation to leave holes for the burner air inlet, thermostat control, pilot light
access plate, drain valve, plumbing pipes and other necessary plates.

C. Oil-Fired Water Heaters

1. If the vent pipe is top-mounted, do not install insulation on the top plate.

2. If the vent pipe is side-mounted, maintain the minimum vent connector clearances
specified in the latest edition of NFPA 211, Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, and
Vents.

3. Cut the insulation to leave holes for the pressure relief valve, thermostat control,
flame peep sight, burner access plate, drain valve, plumbing pipes, and other
necessary access plates.

5. Post-Installation Procedures

1. Ensure that the insulation is securely attached with staples and duct tape.

2. Ensure that required clearances are maintained around vent pipes; and insulation has
not been installed on the top of oil-fired water heaters, which have a top-mounted
vent pipe, or gas-fired water heaters.

3. Ensure that air inlets, access plates, drain valves, temperature controls, and pressure
relief valves are not covered by insulation, except where otherwise instructed.

HEATING SYSTEM WORK FOR WAP CLIENTS

42
Heating system work completed with WAP funds must comply with the following guidance and must be
charged to the appropriate categories, properly itemized, and reported on the Building Weatherization
Report (BWR). Heating system work, when necessary, is Priority 1a in the WEATHERIZATION
MANDATORY PRIORITY MEASURES and must be completed before advancing to subsequent
priority measures.

Heating system measures must be included in the Energy Conservation (E.C.) maximum of $4,000.
Subgrantees must insure that they do not exceed the HEARTWAP allowable maximum expenditure for
any measure on an individual job basis. The maximum for heating system repairs is $600, including any
expenditure in the Health and Safety Repair category.

All heating system work must be closely coordinated with the HEARTWAP to insure that clients do not
receive duplicative assistance from more than one funding source. In addition, if both WAP and
HEARTWAP are involved in a heating system service, the subgrantee must ensure that no contractual
maximum expenditure levels are exceeded by the combined resources of the two programs.

Heating System Replacements and Asbestos Abatement should be performed with HEARTWAP funds
except in very rare cases. Heating System Replacements, including Space Heaters, and Asbestos
Abatement can be completed with WAP funds only with prior DHCD approval.

Subgrantees should utilize WAP and HEARTWAP funds in such a manner as to insure that the greatest
number of eligible clients will receive heating system assistance. Subgrantees must also insure that they
provide a cost effective retrofit package consisting of heating system and building shell measures to all
dwelling units which receive assistance. DHCD strongly encourages subgrantees to leverage landlord
contributions, utility funds, CDBG, and any other supplemental funding to ensure that each building
weatherized receives a comprehensive package of energy conservation measures.

Technical, administrative and programmatic standards and requirements regarding heating system
measures as mandated in the most current “HEARTWAP Guidance”, are applicable to WAP funded
heating system work. Subgrantees which administer both WAP and HEARTWAP may utilize
HEARTWAP procured and approved heating contractors. Those WAP Subgrantees that do not
administer HEARTWAP must procure heating system contractors consistent with the DHCD
Procurement requirements.

43
 HEATING SYSTEM MEASURES

Allowable Measures: WAP Priority 1A: Heating System

1. For eligible homeowners or tenants with WAP eligible landlord:

Clean/tune and evaluate (CTE), (max. $90), Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

Burner replacements due to inefficiency, unsafe or inoperable, (max. $400). Report as an

Energy Conservation Measure.

Heating System Repairs (max. $600). Report as Repairs.

Allowable Retrofit Measures, (max $500). Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

Limited to the specific list of retrofit measures in the HEARTWAP Guidance.

Space Heater Service (max. $90). Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

2. For Tenants with individual heating systems in any size multi-family building:

CTE to improve efficiency (max. $90). Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

Burner Replacement for reasons of efficiency only (max. $400). Report as an Energy
Conservation Measure. If unsafe or inoperable, the landlord must replace or make safe.

Heating System Repairs are the responsibility of the property owner. WAP funds cannot be
used to make repairs to the heating system.

Allowable Retrofit Measures, (max. $500) Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

Limited to the specific list of retrofit measures in the HEARTWAP Guidance.

Space Heater Service, (max. $90). Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

3. For any size multi-family building with a common heating system:

CTE to improve efficiency (max. $90*) Report as an Energy Conservation Measure.

Burner Replacement for reasons of efficiency only (max. $400*) Report as an Energy
Conservation Measure.

Heating System Repairs are the responsibility of the property owner.

Retrofit Measures (max. $500). Report as an Energy Conservation Measure. Limited to the
specific list of retrofit measures in the HEARTWAP Guidance.

* For commercial sized heating systems in multi-family homes, consult DHCD for additional funds,
if needed, for the various heating system measures.

44
 OIL-FIRED HEATING SYSTEM MEASURES

The following measures are allowable within the maximum allowable cost per dwelling unit:

1. CLEAN/TUNE/EVALUATE (CTE): shall include the following measures:

- Check for oil leaks

- Check chimney base and flue pipe
- Check operation of all controls
- Check pump pressure
- Check barometric damper operation
- Check thermostat operation
- Flush low water cut-off
- Lubricate all Motors
- Replace all filters as necessary
- Clean or change water glass
- Clean pump strainer and inner housing
- Replace nozzle
- Clean electrodes
- Clean, brush and vacuum boiler and furnace thoroughly
- Adjust fuel/air for proper combustion
- Document major code violations

Every attempt should be made to optimize the firing rate on oil-fired equipment when possible.

Combustion efficiency test results are required as part of CTEs.

2. REPLACEMENT OIL BURNER: a flame-retention head device which atomizes the fuel oil,
mixes it with air and ignites the fuel-air mixture.

3. CLOCK THERMOSTAT: a device which is designed to reduce energy consumption by

regulating the demand on the heating system in which it is installed and uses:

A. A temperature control device for interior spaces incorporating more than one
temperature control level; and

B. A clock or other automatic mechanism for switching from one control level to another.

4. HYDRONIC BOILER CONTROL: A modulating aquastat which closely matches the outside
temperature with the BTU requirements of the home and adjusts the circulating boiler water
temperature accordingly.

5. REPLACEMENT FURNACE OR BOILER: The space heating system which provides for the
majority of the space heating needs of the residents.

45
 SETTING PRIORITIES ON OIL-FIRED HEATING SYSTEMS
1. Clean/Tune/Evaluate:

If a burner has not been serviced within the current heating season, or if any of the combustion
efficiency test results are unacceptable, then this option must be considered no less than priority
number 1a.

2. Replacement Oil Burner:

A burner may not be considered for replacement unless (a) a licensed technician states in writing that
the existing burner is unsafe or inoperable, or (b) the combustion efficiency of the burner, after a tune-
up evaluation, is 72% or less. Under these circumstances, the priority ranking of this option must be
equal to priority number 1a.

3. Clock Thermostat:

After all applicable measures have been installed and allowable funds are available, this measure
should be considered as an alternative. However, no savings will be realized unless the occupant
utilizes the device in accordance with its intended purpose.

4. Hydonic Boiler Control:

After all applicable measures have been installed and allowable funds are available, this measure
should be considered as an alternative.

5. Replacement Furnace or Boiler:

If a furnace or boiler is documented to be unsafe or inoperable or if it is a gravity warm air furnace

then it should be placed at the top of the priority list. All heating system replacements should only be
performed with HEARTWAP funds, unless DHCD prior approval is granted.

6. Other allowable heating system measures, which, if applicable, must be performed in conjunction
with any other necessary heating system modification:

Line Voltage or Low Voltage Thermostat.

Combustion Chambers: must be rebuilt, relined, replaced or otherwise modified if

they are found to be significantly deteriorated or if they are improperly sized.
DHCD recommends the use of pre-cast mini-combustion chambers and wet chamber
lining material (wet pack).

Thermostatic Radiator Valves: provide individual control of radiators, convectors or

baseboards in two pipe steam and hot water heating systems. They effectively allow
for the balancing of uneven heat distribution systems.

Air Ducts and Connectors: should be properly sized and able to deliver heat to the
desired areas. Sufficient cold air return should be present, equal to 100% of the
warm air distribution. Seams of the ductwork and connectors must be adequately
sealed.

46
 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

1. Clean/Tune/Evaluate Performance Standards:

The following combustion efficiency test results are considered acceptable for oil-fired heating
systems after a clean/tune/evaluate has been performed.

Smoke 0 to Trace
Net Stack Temperature 300 to 600o
Net Stack Temperature with 300 to 400o
Flame Retention Burner
CO 2 8 to 12%
O2 4-8%
Carbon monoxide less than 100 ppm in flue
Draft at Breach -.02 to -.04
Draft over Fire -.01 to -.02

Note: The use of “soot sticks” is not an acceptable alternative to

brushing and vacuuming the heat exchanger surface.

If post combustion efficiency test results are found not to be within acceptable parameters, then the
attending technician should be required to document the heating system's deficiencies.

2. Burner Replacement Performance Standards:

Oil Burners replaced in coal converted boilers or furnaces must attain a minimum combustion
efficiency of 75% with a zero to a trace of smoke.

Oil Burners replaced in design boilers or furnaces must attain a minimum combustion efficiency of
79% with a zero to a trace of smoke.

DHCD staff members are the only individuals authorized to grant a waiver of the above standards.

3. Furnace or Boiler Replacement Performance Standard:

Oil-fired furnace or boiler replacements must attain a minimum post-installation combustion

efficiency of 80% with a zero to a trace of smoke.

47
 OIL FIRED HEATING SYSTEM QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES
1. Take a combustion efficiency and carbon monoxide test.

2. Check for unusual noises and vibrations.

3. Check the flame ignition. Flame ignition should be instantaneous. Delayed ignition is indicative
of a combustion problem.

4. Check for flame impingement. Flame should fill the combustion chamber without hitting the
sides or back of the chamber.

5. Check the flame cut-off time. The flame should cut off in less than three seconds after the burner
shuts off.

6. Check for soot deposits in the flue, combustion chamber, and on the heat exchanger.

7. Check the chimney for problems and the accumulation of soot.

8. Check for oil leaks.

9. Check the draft regulator for any improper adjustments or defects.

10. Check the distribution system.

11. Check for the presence of a Hartford Loop (New Steam Systems only)

The acceptable parameters of a combustion efficiency test on oil fired equipment are as follows:

Net stack 300-500o F

Smoke 0-Trace
CO2 8-12%
O2 4-8%
Draft .02-.04

The maximum allowable concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) in the flue gas is 100 parts per million.
The goal is to have no CO in the flue gas. The ambient air in the area around the appliance shall have no
greater than 9 ppm CO.

48
 GAS-FIRED HEATING SYSTEM MEASURES

The following measures are allowable within the maximum allowable cost per dwelling unit:

DEFINITIONS

1. CLEAN/TUNE/EVALUATE: shall include the following measures:

- Pilot and burner adjustment

- Adjustment of ventilation and combustion
- Check and reset controls
- Replace all filters as necessary
- Lubricate motors
- Flush low water cut-off (steam)
- Check operation of steam and water relief valves
- Check thermostat operation
- Check safety valve
- Check thermocouple - replace if necessary
- Combustion efficiency test
- Document major code violations

2. CLOCK THERMOSTAT: A device which is designed to reduce energy consumption by

regulating the demand on the heating system in which it is installed and uses:

A. A temperature control device for interior spaces incorporated more than one temperature
control level; and

B. A clock or other automatic mechanism for switching from one control to another.

3. HYDRONIC BOILER CONTROL: A modulating aquastat which closely matches the outside
temperature with the BTU requirements of the home and adjusts the circulating boiler water
temperature accordingly.

4. POWER BURNER: A burner in which either gas or air or both are supplied at a pressure
exceeding, for gas, the line pressure, and for air, atmospheric pressure; this added pressure being
applied at the burner.

5. REPLACEMENT FURNACE OR BOILER: The space heating system which provides the
majority of the space heating needs of the residents.

49
 SETTING PRIORITIES ON GAS-FIRED HEATING SYSTEMS

1. Clean/Tune/Evaluate:

If the flame is yellow instead of blue or if after performing a combustion efficiency test the steady-
state efficiency is below 75%, then this option must be considered no less than priority number 1a.

2. Clock Thermostat:

After all applicable measures have been installed and allowable funds are available, this measure
should be considered as an alternative measure. However, no savings will be realized unless the
occupant utilizes the device in accordance with its intended purpose.

3. Hydronic Boiler Control:

After all applicable measures have been installed and allowable funds are available, this measure
should be considered as an alternative measure.

4. Power Burner:

This modification should be utilized, when possible and appropriate, to replace inefficient (72% or
less efficiency after a tune/clean/evaluate), unsafe, or inoperable atmospheric conversion burners in
former oil or coal furnaces or boilers.

5. Replacement Furnace or Boiler:

If a furnace or boiler is documented to be unsafe or inoperable, or if it is a gravity warm air furnace

then it should be placed at the top of the priority list. All heating system replacements should only be
performed with HEARTWAP funds, unless DHCD prior approval is granted.

6. Other allowable heating system measures, which, if applicable, must be performed in conjunction
with any other necessary heating system modification:

Line Voltage or Low Voltage Thermostat.

Combustion Chambers: must be rebuilt, relined, replaced or otherwise modified if they are
found to be significantly deteriorated or if they are improperly sized. DHCD recommends
the use of pre-cast mini-combustion chambers and wet chamber lining material (wet pack).

Thermostatic Radiator Valves: provide individual control of radiators, convectors or

baseboards in two-pipe steam and hot water heating systems. They effectively allow for the
balancing of uneven heat distribution systems.

Air Ducts and Connectors: should be properly sized and able to deliver heat to the desired
areas. Sufficient cold air return should be present, equal to 100% of the warm air
distribution. All duct work seams must be adequately sealed.

50
 GAS FIRED HEATING SYSTEM QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES

1. Check the start-up sequence of the appliance.

2. Check the color of the flame. The flame should be blue. A small amount of orange indicates
impurities in the gas and is acceptable. A yellow or white flame indicates insufficient combustion air
and the likelihood of carbon monoxide production.

3. Check the flame for stability. The flame should be stationary on the burners, not “dancing”.

4. Check for unusal noises and vibrations.

5. For gas conversion units, check for a defective or improperly adjusted draft regulator.

6. Take a combustion efficiency, carbon monoxide, and draft test.

7. Check the distribution system.

8. Check for the presence of a Hartford Loop (new Steam Systems only)

The acceptable parameters of a combustion efficiency test on gas-fired equipment are as follows:

Net stack 300-5000 F

Smoke 0
CO2 7-9%
O2 4-10%
Draft .02-.04

The maximum allowable concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) in the flue gas is 100 parts per million.
The goal is no CO in the flue gas. The ambient air in the area around the appliance shall have no greater
than 9 ppm CO.

51
 HEATING SYSTEM EFFICIENCY REPORT
CLIENT NAME: Job #
System type: Oil Gas Design Converted Gravity FHW FWA Steam

Initial Efficiency Test Results Service Technician’s Test Results Final Efficiency Test Results

Gross Stack Temp. Gross Stack Temp. Gross Stack Temp.

Net Stack Temp. Net Stack Temp. Net Stack Temp.

Smoke Smoke Smoke

CO2/O2 CO2/O2 CO2/O2

Carbon Carbon Carbon

Monoxide Monoxide Monoxide

Overfire Draft Overfire Draft Overfire Draft

Breech Draft Breech Draft Breech Draft

Efficiency % Efficiency % Efficiency %

Comments: Nozzle Size Comments:

Comments:

Signature Signature Signature

Date Date Date

52
 ATTIC INSULATION
1. Definition:

A material or assembly of materials, primarily designed to resist conductive heat loss, which is
installed between the conditioned area of a building and an unconditioned attic. Where the
conditioned area of a building extends to these roofs, the term attic insulation also applies to
material used between the underside of the roof and the ceiling.

2. Requirements:

A. Insulate all finished and unfinished attic areas, where possible, to a settled density
(S.D.) of R-38 or R-44 depending on the housing type or fuel source. (See the
Weatherization Mandatory Priority Measures chart). To simplify field calculations
subgrantees should determine the settled density R-value of loose fill cellulose
insulation to be R-3 per inch. Example: R-30 S.D. equals 10" of blown material. Batt
type insulation may be used when appropriate. The Weatherization staff should use
some discretion as to what level to add attic insulation. Since the greatest conservation
impact of added insulation is generally in the first few inches of insulation, in some
homes, it would make sense to insulate the attic to R-19 - 22 and use the differential in
cost to address uninsulated walls.

B. Properly insulate and weatherstrip all

attic entryways, such as: scuttle holes
(R-19), walkup stairways (R-5), and
pulldown stairways (R-5).

C. Complete and retain on file an Attic

Inspection Form for all attic insulation
installations.

D. After completing installation of thermal

insulation materials, the crew chief or
private contractor responsible for the
installation must complete and post a "Certification of Insulation" form.

3. Procedures:

Pre-installation procedures (attic preparation)

A. Identify all recessed lighting fixtures, including wiring, compartments, ballasts, vents,
chimneys and other heat-producing devices in all areas where insulation is to be
installed.

(1) Block off recessed light fixtures with a sheet metal barrier or any number of
products commercially available. Install all blocking so that the height of the
blocking will be above the level of the finished insulation and in a manner that
ensures that all devices that may require maintenance or service remain
accessible after the insulation is installed. A three-inch minimum clearance
between the fixture and the insulation must be maintained. In addition, do not
cover recessed light fixtures. It entraps heat and/or prevents the free
circulation of air. Massachusetts Energy Conservation Code Section
2006.4.2. High heat sources: A clearance of three (3) inches from any high
53
 heat source, including but not limited to chimneys, flues and vents, shall be
maintained for combustible insulating materials.

B. Inspect the room, ceiling, and attic floor to identify areas where a previous moisture
problem caused paint peeling, warpage, stain, visible fungus growth, rotting or other
structural damage. Do not install insulation in such areas until the resident is informed
and these conditions are corrected and their sources eliminated.

C. Inspect the ceilings to insure that they will carry the weight of the insulation. Installing
fiberglass batt type insulation may be an acceptable alternative in those areas where the
weight of a blown insulation may be a concern.

D. Determine if knob and tube wiring is present (see Knob and Tube Wiring guidance).

E. Install permanent blockings to restrain loose-fill

insulation from clogging soffit vents at the eaves
restricting attic ventilation. Install permanent blocking to
ensure free movement of air through soffit vents into the
attic, to prevent ventilation air from “air washing” the
insulation, and to achieve a uniform R-value and
complete coverage over the exterior wall.

F. Air seal any open wall and drop ceiling cavities

to prevent filling these areas with cellulose.
Attic air sealing consistent with the Blower Door Directed Air Sealing priorities of this
manual must be completed to ensure the effectiveness of the insulation. Additionally,
the installer must use discretion installing a loose fill insulation in the area of a whole
house fan or around duct work that may be present in the attic. Batt type insulation
may be recommended in these areas.

G. All attic accessways, either in kneewalls or ceilings, must be installed so that they may
be readily removed for post inspection purposes by subgrantee or grantee personnel.
In those few cases where this practice would not be practical the
subgrantee must ensure that the area insulated is inspected by an
appropriate subgrantee representative prior to the permanent
sealing of such accessway. This may be the case when a roof or
gable end vent opening is utilized as access to an attic or ceiling
area. The subgrantee must fully document, in writing, the
results of the in-process inspection.

54
 VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS
Do not install insulation in an attic space unless adequate and permanent ventilation is installed.

Adequate cross-ventilation shall be maintained above all attic insulation by providing both low and high
vents or gable end vents. One square foot of net-free vent area (NFA) shall be provided for every 300
ft2 of attic area with 50 to 60% of the vent area located near the roof ridge and 40 to 50% located near
the eaves. One level of venting may be used provided that adequate cross ventilation can be
maintained.

The energy auditor must specify the type number, and location of all vents to the contractor.

NOTE: Although the use of window vents is allowed, the vents must be permanently fixed and
must meet the minimum requirements for free vent area as noted above.

VENT PLACEMENT STANDARDS

Vents should be placed so as to eliminate "still" air pockets in the attic. This may be accomplished by
distributing the lower vents as widely as possible. Vents should be equally spread to address all attic
areas in compliance with the above formulas.

All vents must be screened. Large "can" type roof vents (144 square inches free air) should not be
utilized as low-venting where snow may be of concern. The use of active turbine type vents is not
recommended in most circumstance as they can create high negative pressures in the attic area causing
higher exfiltration from the living space into the attic.

In slate or clay tile roof applications, a combination of gable-end and soffit vents should be used when
possible.

All vents shall be installed using manufacturer's recommendations. Holes should be cut to provide a
free opening at least equal in size to the opening in the ventilator. There should be no obstructions in
the line of the vent opening (be sure to cut and place vents so as to avoid rafters and other structural
components). Low vents should be placed a minimum of one foot above the level insulation will be
blown. Soffit vents and other low vents, which would cause blowing of loose fill insulation, should be
provided with adequate baffling so as to deflect air above the surface of the attic insulation to prevent
“air washing” and to prevent blockage of the vents. All necessary precautions should be taken to insure
a watertight installation. Roofing should overlap the roof vent flashing at top and sides, when possible.

55
 Attic Inspection Form
Mandatory for all Attic Insulation Jobs

Client Name: Job #:

Date:

Section A: To be filled out by the Are there any recessed light fixtures Location:
WAP Auditor during the initial in this dwelling?
interview with the client.
Yes No Don’t Know

Section B: To be filled out by the 1. Recessed Lighting Fixtures 2. Other potential heat
auditor upon visual inspection of the producers
ceiling area beneath the attic.

Section C: To be completed by the Number of recessed lights: Should agree with

Insulation Contractor at the time of Furnace Flues: Section B.
the installation. Other Heat Producers:
Total Guards Needed:

Section D: To be signed by the I have installed insulation guards.

insulation contractor after
completion. Signed:

Subgrantee/Company:

Date:

Section E: To be signed by the I agree that the number of insulation guards indicated have been installed as
weatherization client. noted above. I have received the notice to the client that was attached below.

Signature: Date :

(DETACH HERE AND GIVE TO CLIENT)

Notice to Weatherization Clients: The purpose of insulation guards is to ensure that your dwelling is in
compliance with the National Electric Code. The insulation used meets all Federal test specifications.
However, since insulation retains heat, it is essential that heat producing sources be protected. For this
reason, it is important that insulation guards not be removed, altered or covered. Be sure to use insulation
guards if you install new recessed light fixtures or some similar fixture. Also be certain not to obstruct any
attic ventilation devices.

56
 CERTIFICATE OF INSULATION

Part 1 - General

Address of Residence: Name and Address of Contractor:

Date of Installation:

Part 2 - Areas Insulated

WALLS ( Sq. Ft.) CEILINGS ( Sq. Ft.) FLOORS ( Sq. Ft.)

Type of Insulation: Type of Insulation: Type of Insulation:

Manufacturer: Manufacturer: Manufacturer:

R-Value Installed Amount Installed R-Value Installed Amount Installed R-Value Installed Amount Installed

Part 3 - Certification

I, , certify that the residence identified in Part 1 was insulated as specified in

Part 2 and the installation was conducted in conformance to applicable Codes, Standards, and Regulations.

Signature

This Certificate must be completed and prominently posted adjacent to the electrical panel.

57
 KNOB AND TUBE WIRING

It is mandatory for all WAP Subgrantees to have in its possession a written statement from a licensed
electrician or certified electrical inspector, stating that insulation can be safely installed over knob and tube
wiring, prior to authorizing the installation of any attic or sidewall insulation in a home where knob and
tube wiring is present.

This procedure is the sole responsibility of each WAP Subgrantee and may not be delegated to a private
contractor, property owner, tenant or any other party.

In defining the conditions under which insulation can be safely installed over knob and tube wiring in
residential attics or sidewalls, the following must be determined:

a. the condition of the wiring;

b. the adequacy of circuit protective devices;

c. the possible need to modify the fuse box to install type "S" fuses; and

d. verification that knob and tube systems are actually in service.

Please ensure that all appropriate Subgrantee personnel and contractors are aware of the importance of this
guidance. DHCD/DHCD field staff will be monitoring all Subgrantees to ensure compliance with this
guidance. All contracts, between DHCD and WAP Subgrantees, allow for the immediate termination of any
program found to be in noncompliance with this guidance.

Knob and tube wiring is a potential hazard because it is generally found in older homes (constructed prior to
1920), and these structures were usually wired with a lower electrical service that is inadequate for the
requirements of today's households. However, it is now felt that insulation can be safely placed over knob and
tube wiring provided that:

• the wiring is in good condition

• the circuits do not carry an amperage greater than the rated current for that size wiring.*

Subgrantees must strictly adhere to the following fuse sizes:

• 15 amp fuses for #14 wire

• 20 amp fuses for #12 wire

The electrician or inspector must check to determine if there is evidence of cracked or frayed electrical
insulation or exposed conductors. Installers of the insulation should be cautioned to use care not to damage
the old wiring as the insulation is installed.

Installation of type "S" fuses are required in fuse boxes in homes where knob and tube wiring systems are in
use. Type "S" fuses insure against overloading by making it impossible to put in a larger rated fuse.
Permission must be obtained from the client to modify the fuse box. If the resident does not consent, the
insulation cannot be installed.

* National Electrical Code 19 supports this position.

58
 SIDEWALL INSULATION

1. Definition:

A material designed to resist conductive heat flow, installed within walls between conditioned and
unconditioned areas within the structure, or conditioned areas and the outside.

2. Material Standards:

Thermal insulation materials used to insulate sidewall cavities shall conform to those listed in the
Appendix A, Standards For Weatherization Materials. NOTE: Due to its ability to reduce infiltration
in wall cavities, DHCD requires the use of cellulose insulation when insulating sidewalls.

3. Inspection and Installation Guidelines:

Determine the amount of existing insulation.

Ask the resident if sidewall insulation has been previously installed into the structure.

Inspect the wall surfaces for evidence of drilling, plugging or removal of the siding materials.

Remove the cover plates for electrical wall outlets/switch plates and examine the cavities for
evidence of insulation. Remember to interrupt the electrical current to that area before
probing.

If insulation is found in a cavity, determine to what extent the insulation work has been completed
throughout the structure.

A. Inspect the Structure for Evidence of Moisture Damage (i.e., peeling paint, warpage, visible
stains, fungal growth, rot, or other structural damage.) If evidence of moisture damage is
determined:

Inspect the gutter/downspout system, siding, and roofing materials, drainage around
foundations, and the basement/ crawlspace area for conditions indicating excessive
external moisture infiltration.

Determine if occupant behavior, the structure's size or its construction is causing

excessive amounts of internally produced moisture.

Conditions that may contribute to excessive internal moisture generation include:

A living area of less than 800 sq. ft.

Less than 250 sq. ft. of living space per occupant.

Tight wall and ceiling construction with thorough leakage sealing completed
throughout the structure.

Electrically heated homes or homes with a heating system utilizing outside

combustion air.

59
 Homes that are humidified during the winter.

Clothes dryers vented into the living space.

Dirt floored crawlspaces with no vapor barrier.

Locate the source of severe moisture conditions and correct them prior to installing sidewall
insulation.

Determine, after exploring all reasonable alternative corrective actions, if the installation of a
mechanical ventilation device (fan unit) will adequately control the severe moisture
condition(s). Fan units are to be charged to the Health and Safety category.

B. Inspect the Interior Walls for Structural Integrity

Examine areas and conditions which might allow insulation to escape into the living space,
including pocket doors, balloon construction details (i.e., openings at the top plate, sill plate,
and second story ceiling joists), unbacked cabinets and closets, ducts running through
exterior walls, as well as interior and exterior wall surface integrity, such as visible cracks,
holes, unbacked paneling, etc.

Determine whether those conditions will allow insulation to escape and whether they can be
adequately corrected. If the conditions cannot be corrected, determine if the specific area can
be left uninsulated without drastically reducing the thermal performance of the entire retrofit.

C. Inspect the Electrical Service

Determine whether the wiring runs through the exterior wall cavities and note the conditions
of that wiring where is it visible.

Note the wire gauge and ensure that circuit protectors are matched to the appropriate wire
size. The following protection is required:
o
15 AMP for #14 Wire
o
20 AMP for #12 Wire

If operable knob and tube wiring is present it is mandatory for all WAP subgrantees to have
in its possession a written statement from a licensed electrician or certified electrical
inspector, stating that insulation can be safely installed in sidewall cavities which contain
knob and tube wiring, prior to authorizing the installation of any sidewall insulation. Consult
the Knob and Tube Guidance for further information.

This procedure is the sole responsibility of each WAP subgrantee and may not be delegated
to a private contractor, property owner, tenant or any other party.

If the condition of the wiring cannot be corrected and, in the case of knob and tube wiring,
the homeowner will not allow the installation of properly sized S-type fuses, determine if the
specific cavities containing wiring can be left uninsulated without drastically reducing the
thermal performance of the entire retrofit. Do not complete the retrofit if the conditions
cannot be corrected (including owner permission for S-type fuses) or if specific cavities
cannot be left uninsulated without drastically reducing cost-effectiveness.

60
 D. Inspect the Routing of the Mechanical Services

Locate and note the pathways that plumbing, wiring, heat runs, air return runs and gas lines
take through the exterior walls. Take steps to assure that the installation of insulation will not
damage or in any way hinder the normal function of those services. In some cases, cavities
or groups of cavities may have to be left uninsulated. Determine if the specific area can be
left uninsulated without drastically reducing the thermal performance of the entire retrofit.

E. Inspect the Exterior Siding

Determine if the siding is of a type that can be loosened or removed in a safe and efficient
manner. Sidings must be unlocked/removed unless the homeowner gives the prior written
permission to drill and plug them.

Inspect for missing or damaged siding and other conditions that would allow insulation to
escape from and/or precipitation to enter into exterior wall cavities.

Document with notations and/or pictures any existing siding problems.

4. Installation Procedures:

A. Pre-Installation Procedures

Ensure that the moisture conditions detected in the structure during the course of the initial
inspection are corrected prior to insulation of the sidewall cavities. This may be
accomplished by one or more of the following techniques:

Provide a vapor barrier on the interior surface of the walls in bathrooms, kitchens,
laundry rooms, and any other high moisture areas.

Thoroughly seal all cracks and holes through the interior wall surfaces in high
moisture areas.

Install a vapor barrier and ventilation into high moisture crawlspaces.

Correct exterior structural flaws that admit precipitation into the wall cavities, i.e.,
repair gutter, downspout, drainage system, and seal gaps above door/window
casings.

Install an adequate moisture control system in the attic.

Vent clothes dryers to the outside.

Advise the owner/occupants to lower their humidifier and/or to change lifestyle

practices which contribute significantly to high humidity.

Install an independently controlled mechanical ventilation device in high moisture

living areas.

To the greatest degree possible, moisture problems should be mitigated at the source.
Ventilation should be the last resort.

61
 Ensure that all openings in sidewalls through which the insulation can escape are blocked as
follows:

Missing interior wall surfaces will be covered with a compatible material (i.e.,
drywall) and sealed into place.

Missing or damaged exterior siding on homes with incomplete or no subsiding will

be replaced/repaired.

Wall cavities with no top plate and/or open at the sill plate will be blocked and
sealed with an air impermeable barrier.

Carefully locate and avoid accessing and insulating wall cavities that would either allow
insulation to escape or present a hazard to the occupant, installer or the home's
structural/mechanical integrity, i.e., heat ducts, recessed lights, vent fans, electrical service
entrances, etc.

Lead based paint abatement is not an allowable activity under the Weatherization Assistance
Program. See the Northeast Weatherization Field Guide for additional information about Lead-
Safe Weatherization.

When working on sidewalls that may contain lead based paint, steps should be taken to
minimize and contain debris, paint chips, and to avoid the ingestion of lead dust. These steps
must include, but are not limited to the following:

Keeping children and pets away from the work area.

Covering the ground beneath the work area with six (6) mil. polyethelene plastic or
drop clothes to catch falling debris. Carefully remove the plastic or drop cloth after
the work is completed.

Closing all windows and doors to ensure that dust does not blow into the home.

Worker Protection

Detailed specifications regarding the health and safety of workers in the construction
industry can be found in Construction Industry OSHA Safety and Health Standards
(299CFR 1926/1910).

62
B. Installation Procedures

Two (2) basic techniques are acceptable for accessing and insulating sidewall cavities. In
any given structure, either or both of the following techniques may be required to assure
complete insulation of all wall cavities.

The first and preferred method involves drilling one (1) hole in each wall cavity, inserting an
appropriate flexible tube through the hole until it reaches the opposite end of that cavity, and
dense packing the cellulose insulation by slowly withdrawing the tube as the cavity fills.

To accomplish complete coverage using this method the installer must

access the wall with a single hole drilled in each cavity
(i.e. through the exterior sheathing after the siding has
been removed, top or sole plate, behind the baseboard
or crown molding, etc.). Drilling through the exterior
siding is NOT allowable except in very unusual
circumstances with prior approval by the homeowner
and WAP Subgrantee. Entry holes must be thoroughly
probed to locate fire stops or other obstructions that
may necessitate additional access holes. A flexible fill
tube, of appropriate stiffness, long enough to reach to
the opposite end of the cavity, must then be inserted
into the cavity and withdrawn as the cavity fills and
pressurizes.

It is imperative that a fill tube be used with this

technique. A single hole technique without a fill tube
will not provide adequate density or coverage and is not
an acceptable practice in the WAP.

The cellulose insulation should be installed at a density of 3.5-4.5 lbs. per cubic foot. This
density is considered the minimum requirement for “dense pack” and will significantly
reduce air infiltration within the wall cavity.

The second method involves drilling a minimum of two (2) holes per one story cavity and
installing insulation through those holes. Reducing nozzles are NOT recommended when
using this technique. Directional nozzles may help improve density and coverage.

Access wall cavities with a minimum of two (2) holes per story with no more than 5' distance
between those holes. Entry holes will then be probed to locate fire stops or other obstructions
which may necessitate additional entry holes to assure the maximum pressurization practical
for that cavity. This process applies to exterior siding, subsiding, and interior wall surface
applications.

Follow manufacturer recommendations on air pressure settings unless it has been determined
by testing that a machine's capability to pressurize a cavity has been altered by mechanical,
material, or atmospheric conditions.

Close all entry holes in a professional manner using techniques and materials that ensure a
complete, secure seal, with minimum damage to the accessed areas.

63
 Industry standards state that if the exterior siding is removed and replaced, the subsiding need
not be plugged prior to the exterior siding replacement.

When limited funds require that a Subgrantee insulate only a portion of all the sidewalls of a
building, the auditors decision as to which walls to insulate should be based on the following
criteria:

• The level of exposure of the walls to the elements.

• The areas of the home used by the occupants.
• The direction of the prevailing winds.

The auditor should clearly state and diagram which walls are to be insulated and the
contractor’s invoice must provide the subgrantee with a diagram of the areas that were
insulated.

C. Post-Installation Procedures

Thoroughly clean the work area and remove any debris or materials left over from the access
and installation process.

Prime any wood used in closing the access holes or in other preparatory repairs that is left
exposed to the weather.

Assure that the cavity access coverings are securely sealed and fastened into place.

After completing installation of thermal insulation materials, the person responsible for the
installation must complete a "Certificate of Insulation" form. The "Certificate of Insulation"
must be posted adjacent to the building's electrical service panel.

5. Restrictions:

If a contractor determines that the sidewalls of a building have previously been insulated during any
installation, and no further retrofit is possible, then the reimbursement for that measure is limited to
$50 for labor expended in test drilling a minimum of four (4) sides of the building. The contractor
must test drill all the walls.

A contractor always retains the right to perform an inspection of a building's sidewalls prior to
accepting a job.

6. Coverage:

Voids of any type or size, other than those previously mentioned are unacceptable when insulating
sidewall cavities. DHCD requires insulators to return and reinsulate any sidewall areas that lack
adequate insulation material.

64
 COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS

All compact fluorescent light bulbs must be UL approved and must be on a Massachusetts electric utility’s list
of approved products. All CFLs must be installed by WAP energy auditors and must be billed to the DOE
WAP at the subgrantee’s purchase price.

A maximum of six (6) bulbs may be installed in each dwelling unit weatherized. CFLs shall be installed only
where the fluorescent replaces an incandescent of higher wattage and the fixture is on for three (3) hours or
longer on the average day.

Installation Standards

The installation of CFLs must comply with those of the electric utilities’ Appliance Management
Program.

65
 FLOOR INSULATION
1. Definition:

A material primarily designed to resist heat flow and installed between the first level conditioned area
of a building and an unconditioned basement or crawl space.

2. Requirements:

A. Floor insulation must be a minimum of R-19.

B. The insulation must always be installed with the vapor barrier facing the winter warm side.

C. The insulation must be installed so that there is no space between the floor and the insulation.
Do not compress the insulation.

D. The insulation must be mechanically supported with “tiger paws”, wiring, twine, staples
or strapping.

1. Where insulation is to be installed beneath floors over crawl space:

a. Cover all dirt surfaces with a ground cover that acts as a vapor barrier (6
mil. polyethylene sheeting).

b. Provide one square foot of ventilation for every 1,500 square feet of ground
area with a vapor barrier, or one square foot of ventilation for every 150
square feet of ground area without a vapor barrier.

3. Other Considerations:

A. High levels of floor insulation allow less heat loss from living areas to the basement or crawl
space. A cooler crawl space or basement means a greater chance for pipes to freeze. Pipe
insulation or other methods of freeze protection must always be a consideration.

B. Floor insulation will prevent any heat that may be present in a conditioned basement from
rising and warming the floors. In many such cases, the result may be colder floors in the
living space.

66
 PERIMETER INSULATION

1. Definition:

A material or assembly of materials used primarily to provide resistance to heat flow by

conduction through the foundation walls.

2. Procedure:

Insulate the interior of basement foundation walls with 1 1/2”- 2” vinyl backed duct wrap
or faced R-11 fiberglass batts. The insulation must extend from the top of the sill box to
a point at or below the exterior grade. The bottom of the duct wrap must be fastened to
the foundation and all seams must be taped.

3. Important Considerations:

The Bureau of Energy Programs does not recommend perimeter insulation in all cases.
When the nature of the housing and residents suggest that the insulation will remain in
place on a temporary basis at best, this measure should not be attempted. Also, where
high levels of moisture is a factor and cannot be
effectively controlled, perimeter insulation is not
recommended. In addition, since a well installed
perimeter wrap may effectively air seal the
foundation, consideration must be given to the
availability of combustion air for any combustion
appliances in the basement area and the potential
role of the perimeter insulation in reducing the
availability of combustion air. One of the more
appropriate applications of perimeter insulation is
in conditioned crawlspaces, with no moisture
problems, where the entire exposed basement wall can be insulated and the perimeter
wrap can be protected from ground borne moisture with a 6 mil. polyethylene ground
cover.

67
 DUCT AND PIPE INSULATION

1. Definitions:

Duct Insulation: A material designed to resist heat loss off the ductwork of a forced
warm air heating system.

Pipe Insulation: A material primarily designed to reduce heat loss off the surface of
exposed water and steam pipes.

2. Procedures:

Duct Insulation:

Seal the seams of all loose fitting joints and any of those that can be shown to leak using
a blower door or running the furnace fan, and repair any sections of ductwork that have
become disconnected or damaged. Seal and repair both supply and return sides of the
ductwork.

Ducts must be sealed with latex mastic or a butyl backed tape.

Wrap 1 1/2”- 2” vinyl backed duct insulation as completely as possible around the
ductwork. Insulate to a minimum of R-5. Insulate only the supply side of the ductwork.

Carefully butt or overlap the ends and seams of the insulation together. All insulation
seams must be thoroughly stapled to ensure a permanent seal.

Domestic Hot Water Pipe Insulation:

Be certain that hot water pipes do not leak.

Insulate the first six (6) feet of domestic hot water pipe from the water heater source with
foam type pipe insulation to a minimum of R-3. If the floors above are insulated and
there is no heat source in the basement, it may be necessary to insulate all the domestic
water pipes.

Hydronic/Steam Space Heating Pipe Insulation:

Be certain that the pipes do not leak.

Insulate the hot water or steam pipes with a pre-formed foam or fiberglass pipe insulation
to a minimum of R-5. Tightly butt and seal all joints and miter corners to ensure a tight
fit. Insulation must be the correct size for the pipe.

Do not insulate pumps, valves, boiler feed lines, pressure relief devices, or vents.

3. Priorities
68
Duct Insulation is to be considered a mandatory weatherization priority measure when
appropriate. Duct insulation may not always be appropriate. In a conditioned basement
that is deliberately warm or heated, duct insulation is not recommended.

Domestic Hot Water Insulation must be installed on the first six (6) feet of hot water
pipe as part of the General Heat Waste Priority 1. In some cases, such as unconditioned
crawlspaces all pipes may be insulated.

Hydronic/Steam Heating Pipes is to be considered a mandatory weatherization priority

measure when appropriate. In a conditioned basement that is deliberately warm or
heated, pipe insulation is not recommended.

69
 STORM WINDOWS/REPLACEMENT WINDOWS/
MOVABLE INSULATION SYSTEMS/REPLACEMENT DOORS
DEFINITIONS:

Storm Windows: A unit consisting of glazing material installed in a window opening either outside or inside a
prime window, creating an insulating air space to provide greater resistance to heat flow than the prime
window alone. The storm window may be removable or permanently attached.

Replacement Windows: A single or double-glazed window unit which would replace the original prime
window and would provide for a more airtight construction.

Moveable Insulation Systems:

a. Window Shutter - A rigid insulating plate used to cover a window for the purpose of reducing
heat loss.

b. Window Shade - A device that consists mainly of one or more flexible sheets or quilts and
can be unrolled (or vertically raised or lowered) to cover a window and, when not needed,
can be moved out of the way.

c. Window Quilt - Several flexible sheets of cloth or plastic (or plastic foam) attached to one
another in series to form a thick, soft, flexible assembly.

Replacement Doors: A standard or insulated hinged or sliding patio unit which is installed in an exterior door
opening and is weatherstripped to provide greater resistance to heat flow.

PROCEDURES:

Interior or Exterior Storm Windows are to be installed on single-glazed window units that separate
conditioned and unconditioned spaces. Interior and exterior storm windows must be installed consistent with
the recommended priority listing. No reasonably repairable existing storm window may be replaced.

When a dwelling unit consists of double glazed windows, (i.e., exterior storm window and prime window or
double glazed primary window) the interior type storm window should be considered as an optional
weatherization measure and placed after all other applicable measures listed in the Recommended
Weatherization Priority List for the appropriate building type.

Triple glazing of windows must be limited to electrically heated dwelling units or to those situations when the
existing primary/storm window assembly or double glazed primary window is in poor condition, and any
repair work on the window would either not be cost effective or would disturb lead based paint.

NOTE: WAP Subgrantees may choose to utilize either exterior or interior storm windows when
installing additional glazing. Interior type storms tend to be more cost effective when they
are properly utilized because of their lower initial cost and greater effectiveness at reducing
infiltration losses.

Moveable Insulation Systems may be utilized as an insulation material in place of storm windows. Moveable
Insulation Systems although effective in selective instances, can be very costly, and must be properly
"managed" by the residents to be effective.
70
Replacement Windows are to be utilized as an allowable weatherization material only after all other reasonable
repair options have been considered and rejected.

Replacement Doors, either hinged or sliding patio units, are to be utilized only after all other reasonable repair
options have been considered and rejected. Replacement Doors are to be considered as an allowable
weatherization material cost. Material costs must be reported as "Other Material" on the BWR.

LIMITATIONS:

Subgrantees are limited to a $500.00 material and labor expenditure on any weatherized unit in the
storm window category, inclusive of any associated work, such as the removal of existing storm
windows. The maximum expenditure for any “standard” storm window up to 88 united inches is $75.

Window quilts used a fan, air conditioner or pulldown stair covers must be reported on the Building Weather
Report (BWR) as “Other Material”, not “Storm Windows

Subgrantees are encouraged to use extreme caution in the use of replacement windows or sashes as a
conservation measure. First, due to their high cost and low potential for savings, they are generally not cost
effective as an energy conservation measure. Second, in many instances the installation of replacement
windows or sashes results in disturbing lead paint, in violation of the DHCD Health and Safety Guidance.

71
 INCIDENTAL REPAIRS

Incidental Repairs are those “repairs to the dwelling unit that are necessary for the effective performance
or preservation of an allowable energy conservation measure”. An incidental repair may only be
performed in conjunction with an allowable energy conservation measure. Thus, reshingling a leaking
roof or upgrading the electrical wiring in an attic may be performed when a subgrantee is going to
insulate the attic.

Following is a list of some of the most common repair materials utilized by WAP subgrantees:

Lumber
Roof and sidewall shingles
Flashing
Vinyl, aluminum, and clapboard siding
Masonry supplies
Window repair items (glass, locks, parting beads, ropes, sidestops, channels)
Gutters and downspouts
Paint, stain, sealers

Incidental repairs are limited to a maximum of $600 per eligible dwelling unit, inclusive of labor and
materials. The cost of “incidental repairs” is in addition to the maximum cost of allowable energy
conservation measures.

The cost of “incidental repair” must be reported on the Building Weatherization Report (BWR) in the
appropriate category.

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 QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES

A comprehensive, detailed, and fully documented Quality Control procedure is a required component of the
Weatherization Assistance Program. Each Subgrantee must have a Quality Control procedure that is routinely
used to assess the quality and completeness of the weatherization work completed by contractors and crews.
This procedure must be fully documented.

Whenever a Subgrantee weatherizes a dwelling unit, a Massachusetts WAP Certified Energy Auditor who is an
employee of that agency must inspect and approve as complete, all work invoiced by a contractor, prior to
issuing payment to that contractor and submitting the job to DHCD/DHCD. If there are any problems or
discrepancies with the work, the Subgrantee must document the resolution of the problem, including any
required follow-up inspections, prior to payment. If agency crews are used on a weatherization job, an agency
staff member not associated with that crew must inspect the work and certify that the work was acceptable and
all materials listed were installed as specified prior to submitting that job to DHCD/DHCD as a completion.

Each Subgrantee must develop clear documentation of proper Quality Control procedures. When using
contractors, the Subgrantee must develop a procedure that includes a standardized Quality Control form used in
conjunction with the contractor’s itemized invoice. The Quality Control inspector must check off each item as
complete and acceptable prior to contractor payment. All insulation jobs must be remeasured to ensure the
accuracy of the square footage. All Quality Control forms must be signed and dated by the inspector.

If a contractor must seal off an insulation accessway or uses roof or gable end vents as access to an attic area, no
matter how small, the Subgrantee must perform a visual inspection of the work prior to that area being sealed
off. If the area does not receive a visual inspection prior to being closed off, the Subgrantee must return with
the contractor, reopen the area, and inspect the work. The inspector must certify that the work (insulation, air
sealing) is complete and installed according to specifications. This inspection must be completely documented
and included in the client file.

DHCD/DHCD strongly recommends that Subgrantees require contractors to notify the WAP office prior to the
day that they are beginning weatherization jobs for the agency. The Subgrantee should then plan to make
regular, unannounced in-process inspections to determine that the WAP contractor is completing the work in an
acceptable manner. These in-process inspections also offer the opportunity for the Subgrantee auditor and the
contractor to discuss any problems or concerns about the job. The in-process inspection must be documented
and does not preclude the need for a final inspection of the job after all work is completed.

The final Quality Control inspection must also include Health and Safety testing consistent with the
requirements outlined in the DHCD HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDANCE.

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 POST INSTALLATION QUALITY CONTROL REPORT
Client Name: Job #:

Address: Date:

Contractor: GHW/Air Sealing: Insulation:

Storm Window: Heating System:

Quality of Work
Weatherization Work Work Invoiced
Good Fair Poor None Comments
Measure Required
Window Work
Weatherstripping
Sash Locks
Glass Replacement
Window Locks
Sash Replacement
Other
Doors
Weatherstripping
Repairs
Replacement
Living Area
Electric Gaskets
Interior Caulking
Other Interior Air Sealing
Attic Air Sealing
Chimney Chase
Top plates
Plumbing Bypasses
Other Major Bypasses

Key Junctures
Kneewall Trans. Area
Cantilevered Areas
Porch Roofs
Other Areas (List)

Attic Insulation
Flat Area [Link]. [Link].
Attic Area 2 [Link]. [Link].
Slopes [Link]. [Link].
Kneewall Area [Link]. [Link].
Kneewall Floor [Link]. [Link].
Attic Accessway
Blocking and Damming
Other
Ventilation
Gable Vents
Roof Vents

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 Weatherization Work Work Invoiced
Good Fair Poor None Comments
Measure Required
Ridge Vent
Soffit Vents

Basement Area
Duct Sealing
Chimney Chase
Major Plumbing Chases
Perimeter Sealing
Other

Floor Insulation [Link]. [Link].

Perimeter Insulation
Duct Insulation
DHW Tank Insulation
Pipe Insulation [Link]. [Link].
Other Repairs (List)

Sidewall Insulation
Square Footage Insulated [Link]. [Link]
Proper Accessing
Condition of Siding
Storm Windows
Exterior
Interior
Repairs
Certificate of Insulation
Heating System Work

The work invoiced is certified complete and ready for payment.

Signature of Inspector: Date:

Follow up Required: Date:

Call back completed: Date:

Final Carbon Monoxide test results Heating System ppm

Domestic Hot Water ppm
Kitchen Range ppm
Dryer ppm
Other Combustion Appl. ppm
Backdraft Test

Acceptable Not Acceptable

Additional Comments:

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 GUIDELINES FOR THE WEATHERIZATION OF MULTIFAMILY
RENTAL BUILDINGS

Following is the procedure for weatherizing buildings with two or more units.

Buildings with less than 50% of the dwelling units eligible

When less than 50% of the dwelling units in a building are eligible for weatherization, the following
procedure is mandatory:

All applicable Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste, Heating System, and Wall Insulation
must be completed to the eligible unit.

All common areas (hallways, attics, basements) that are immediately adjacent to the eligible
unit must be weatherized.

The building’s ineligible units cannot be weatherized.

Allowable expenditures are limited to those of the eligible unit or units and production credit
will be granted for the eligible unit(s) only.

Building with five (5) or more units and 50-65% of the units are eligible

When buildings with five (5) or more units and 50-65% of the units are eligible for weatherization,
the following procedure is mandatory:

All applicable Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste, Heating System and Wall Insulation
measures must be performed to the eligible units.

All common areas (hallways, attics, basements) regardless of their location in relation to the
eligible unit, must be weatherized.

The building’s ineligible units cannot be weatherized.

Allowable expenditures are limited to those of the eligible units and production credit will be
granted to the eligible units only.

50% of the units in a two (2) or four (4) unit building or at least 66% of the units in any
building are eligible

When 50% of the units in a two (2) or four (4) unit building or at least 66% of the units in any
building are eligible for weatherization the subgrantee may elect either of the following procedures:

1. The Subgrantee may elect to weatherize the entire building including all eligible, and ineligible
units and all common areas. If the subgrantee elects this option, the following procedure is
mandatory:

The entire building must be weatherized consistent with the applicable Massachusetts
Weatherization Priority Measures regardless of the location of the eligible units.

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 Allowable Energy Conservation expenditures are limited to a total of $4,000 x the number of
income eligible units in the building.

Health and Safety/Repair expenditures are limited to $600 x the number of income eligible
dwelling units in the building.

Total Program Operations (Energy Conservation, Repair/Health and Safety) expenditures are
limited to a total of $4,600 x the number of eligible units in the building.

A Building Weatherization Report (BWR) must be submitted for each unit completed. Costs
that can be directly attributed to that unit must be reported on that unit’s BWR (i.e. costs
associated with Air Sealing/General Heat Waste or wall insulation for that unit). Costs
associated with common areas in the building can be charged off to the adjacent unit or
divided among the units in such a manner that that will ensure that the building receives
maximum weatherization services. Ineligible units must be clearly labeled as such in the
Client Demographic Section of the BWR.

Subgrantees must ensure that the regulatory maximums for Energy Conservation and
Repair/Health and Safety are not exceeded on any individual BWR.

Production credit will be granted for each ineligible unit weatherized with a minimum $200
expenditure.

2. The Subgrantee may elect to weatherize only the eligible unit or units and common areas in the
building. If the Subgrantee elects this option, the following procedure is mandatory:

All applicable Major Air Sealing/General Heat Waste, Heating System, and Wall Insulation
must be completed to the eligible unit(s).

All common areas (hallways, attics, basements) regardless of their location, must be
weatherized.

The building’s ineligible units cannot be weatherized.

Allowable expenditures are limited to those of the eligible unit or units and production credit
will be granted for the eligible unit(s) only.

The Guidelines for the Weatherization of Multifamily Rental Buildings apply only to buildings
where a minimum of one dwelling unit is occupied by a tenant. Privately owned condominiums and
cooperatively owned buildings may not receive assistance under these Guidelines (including
provisions for weatherizing income ineligible units) unless one or more units is occupied by a tenant.
These privately owned units may receive assistance on an individual basis, based on the eligibility
status of the owner.

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Weatherization of Vacant Units

A vacant unit must always be weatherized as an ineligible unit. Vacant units cannot be weatherized
using LIHEAP Funds. The only case in which a vacant unit may be weatherized as an eligible unit is
when the building is being rehabilitated under a local, state, or federally funded rehabilitation
program in conjunction with CDWAP. Weatherizing these units requires DHCD prior approval
under the Special Projects Guidance in all instances.

Subgrantees may not sign “Vacant Unit” agreements with building owners on the promise that the
units will be occupied by eligible tenants outside of the CDWAP process.

Multifamily Dwelling Client Prioritization Policy

DHCD will waive the mandatory client priority requirements in those cases in which the
weatherization of an entire building is possible, and at least one dwelling unit in that building is
classified as a priority client. In these cases, the cost effectiveness of the whole house approach will
take precedence over the priority status of the remaining units in the building. This waiver does not
apply to any income ineligible units in the building.

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 BWR COST SECTION MATERIAL BREAKDOWN
Weatherization measures completed must be itemized and reported in appropriate costs section on
the BWR as itemized below:

1. Weatherstripping and Sealants Faucet Aerators

Water Pipe Heater Strips
Door and Window Weatherstripping Compact Fluorescent Lighting
Electrical Outlet Gaskets Window Quilts used to cover fans, air
Caulking and Sealing Material conditioners and pulldown attic stairways.
Glazing Compound
Duct Sealing Materials 6. Repair Material
Putty
Spray-type Foams Glass/Parting Beads/Side Stops
Materials that have a Primary Function of Air Window Locks, Ropes, and Channels
Sealing, (i.e. Pieces of Foam Board, Metal Glazing Points
Flashing used to seal a chimney chase) Window and Door Trim
Nails/Screws/Brads/Other Fasteners
2. Insulation Glue/Adhesives
Flashing (except to air seal chimney chase)
Fiberglass; Batt, Blanket, and Blown Lumber/Shingles/Siding
Cellulose, Vermiculite, Perlite Masonry Supplies, Bricks, Blocks, Mortar
Rigid Foam Board Paint/Stain/Sealers
Hot Water Heater Insulation Sheetrock/Plaster
Pipe and Duct Wrap Gutters/Downspouts
Attic Hatch and Pulldown Stairway Insulation Mobile Home Roof Sealants
Skirting
3. Storm Windows Repairs to the Primary Heating System

Exterior Storm Windows

Interior Storm Windows 7. Health and Safety
Moveable Insulation Systems for Windows
Gas Leak Repairs
4. Heating System Carbon Monoxide Mitigation
Bathroom/Kitchen Exhaust Fans and Vents
Dryer Vents
Combustion Chambers
Electrical Wiring, Fuses, Boxes, and Inspections
Replacement Oil and Gas Power Burners
Clean Tune and Evaluate Materials
Thermostats, Standard and Clock
Hydronic Boiler Controls
Thermostatic Radiator Valves
Air Ducts and Connectors

5. Other Materials

Window Sash
Primary Window Units
Insulation Guards
Vapor Barriers
Replacement Windows
Ventilation Devices
Replacement Doors
Low Flow Showerheads/Flow Restrictors

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