5545 Route 67, Durham, NY

Built in the 2000s, this home was constructed under New York's updated residential energy code and likely has better insulation and window performance than most of its neighbors. That said, code minimums are a floor, not a ceiling, and the air sealing requirements of the era were still less rigorous than current standards. There's often meaningful room to improve efficiency even in homes this age, particularly around duct sealing, ventilation, and equipment efficiency.

Multi-family properties like this one present a specific energy management challenge: the costs of heating and hot water are often shared or distributed across units, which can make it harder to track where money is going. Common areas, shared mechanical systems, and units with more exterior exposure all contribute differently to the overall energy load.

Based on confirmed building data, EcoAudit estimates annual energy costs for this home at $2,900 to $4,750, assuming natural gas heating and typical usage patterns for Central New York. A targeted set of improvements - usually starting with attic insulation, air sealing, and possibly equipment upgrades - could reduce that by $500 to $1,200 per year. New York State and National Grid offer rebates that cover a meaningful share of weatherization costs for homeowners in Onondaga County. A free EcoAudit assessment identifies exactly where this home is losing energy and which programs apply.