Port Watson

The Affordable Housing Conservancy performed weatherization upgrades through the Weatherization Assistance Program for 121 affordable units in the Cortland Housing Authority portfolio. These measures included air sealing, the installation of new Energy Star refrigerators, apartment level boiler controls, and upgrades to the ventilation system including fans, kitchen hoods, and smart switches. Traditional lighting was replaced with LED lights, significantly reducing energy consumption. 

The initial testing of the apartments found them to be stuffy and well below the required fresh air changes. The Conservancy addressed this problem by installing new exhaust fans throughout the building to meet the national ASHRAE standard for air exchanges. The project would not have been able to proceed with the energy savings improvements without ASHRAE compliance as appropriate fresh air for occupants is a health and safety prerequisite. The projected annual modeled energy savings are $ 7,275.

Upon final inspection, residents confirmed that the addition of zone valves and working exhaust fans created a much more comfortable environment, and that the noticeably improved air quality in their apartments had a positive impact on their wellbeing.