1923 Paddy Lane, Ontario, NY

• Year built: 1966
• Square footage: 2,226 sq ft
• Bedrooms: 4
• Style: Colonial
• Estimated energy score: 29/100
• Estimated annual energy cost: $3,700 - $6,150
• Estimated annual savings potential: $1,300 - $3,100
• Heating fuel: Natural Gas

Built in 1966, this home was constructed just before the energy crisis forced builders and code writers to start paying attention to insulation. Homes from this period in Onondaga County typically have R-11 or less in the walls - if anything at all - and attic insulation that may have been added or upgraded at some point but rarely meets today's R-49 recommendation for climate zone 6A. The mechanical systems have usually been replaced once, but the envelope is often original.

Two-story colonials have more exterior wall surface relative to their footprint than single-story homes, which means wall insulation matters more here than in a comparable ranch. Older colonials built before modern sheathing standards often have minimal or no wall cavity insulation.

Based on confirmed building data, EcoAudit estimates annual energy costs for this home at $3,700 to $6,150, 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 $1,300 to $3,100 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.