Historical District home in need of asbestos abatement, energy efficiency, electrical panel upgrades before getting a heat pump

Saratoga Springs, NY

YEAR BUILT: 1904
HOUSING TYPE: Homeowner occupied single family
FUEL TYPE: Gas

DESIRED UPGRADES: The resident was concerned about several toxic hazards (lead paint, mold, and asbestos) and wanted to remediate those issues. She also wanted to get the roof, doors, and windows into good condition to reduce heat and air conditioning leaks from the home. Lastly, she wanted to electrify the home and get an induction stove, heat pumps, and hot water heat pumps – however, these upgrades necessitated costly electrical wiring upgrades due to the age of the home. 

What problem was the resident having? The home was very drafty due to the age of the windows, doors, and roof, and she wanted to reduce her energy bills by improving the efficiency of the building. She was also interested in the health benefits of remediating some of the health hazards, as she was experiencing some symptoms associated with mold toxicity. 

Were they able to fix the issue? If not, why? The resident was able to complete some, but not all, of the desired upgrades due to cost barriers as well as local restrictions. She was able to get electrical wiring upgrades, and subsequently was able to switch from her fossil fueled water heater to a heat pump water heater as well as switch out her gas stove for an induction cooktop. Some of the toxic hazards were remediated – she was able to remediate mold in the attic, fiberglass and vermiculite insulation, as well as asbestos-contaminated ductwork. However, there is still some unremediated mold and asbestos which were cost prohibitive, and are preventing other energy efficiency upgrades. For example, while she was able to repair her roof, she has not been able to replace her older, drafty windows.