Trailer Home Energy Upgrades 

Standard is your trusted provider of trailer home energy upgrades, with services throughout the Capital Region and Mohawk Valley. From Albany to Lake George, Standard is here to help you save money and live more comfortably with mobile home energy upgrades.  

Trailer parks and trailer homes are more popular than ever, with many New Yorkers opting to live, travel, and thrive in mobile homes. With nearly 200,000 manufactured homes in the state, it’s clear that trailer homes offer a viable housing solution. State laws aim to offer added protections for trailer homeowners in the face of changes to park ownership. Additionally, mobile home values are increasing at rates that are nearly on par with single-family homes. 

Energy efficiency remains a hot button issue. Newer homes have made great strides, but older mobile homes can produce energy costs that are 50% higher than site-built homes. Fortunately, with Standard’s help, you can make trailer home energy upgrades to improve comfort and save money.  

Benefits of Energy Efficient Upgrades for Trailer Homes 

Trailers and manufactured homes are among the most affordable housing options in the country. Yet they often lag significantly in energy efficiency, leading to notoriously high utility costs. Standard wants to help you save money and live more comfortably and efficiently with benefits such as: 

• Reduced mobile home energy consumption  
• Lower monthly energy bills — save up to 30% 
• More even heating and cooling 
• Fewer drafts and cold spots 
• Extended life of HVAC equipment 
• Minimized carbon footprint  

How to Make Your Manufactured Home More Energy Efficient 

While newer trailers, mobile, and modular homes are designed with increased efficiency in mind, older models require retrofitting with upgrades to save up to 31% on average, in heating fuel use. Some of the most impactful changes include: 

• Adding insulation to the entire trailer home, including the skirting, belly, walls, and roof 
• Improving air sealing and repairing ducts, gaps, and cracks to minimize heat transfer 
• Installing energy efficient fixtures, including windows, doors, and HVAC equipment 

Update Insulation in your Entire Mobile Home 

Poor insulation is among the most common complaints made by trailer homeowners. Approximately 25% of your trailer home’s heat is lost through the roof, with 35% lost through the walls and another 15% through the floor.  

One of the most effective ways to improve your mobile home’s energy performance is by updating and upgrading the insulation. Adding insulation to the walls and roof is an excellent way to improve energy use and comfort. Likewise, installing insulated skirting and insulation to the belly can also make a difference. 

Standard’s NATE-certified professionals can help determine the right type of insulation to use and the areas most in need of upgrading. Spray foam and blown-in insulation both have unique benefits and use cases that require professional consultation to maximize the benefits.  

Service or Replace Your Mobile Home Furnace 

Mobile home furnaces typically last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the type of furnace and amount of upkeep it receives. Newer models have onboard diagnostic systems that can help with troubleshooting. Common issues include burners that don’t light, flame sensor issues, and problems with the flower assembly. Older mobile home furnaces lack the easy diagnostics featured on newer furnaces. They are also typically less efficient.  

If you notice strange sounds coming from the furnace, you need to make frequent repairs, or you’re faced with rising energy costs, it may be time to replace it entirely. Standard’s team of experts can aid with repairs, furnace selection, and professional installation to ensure you choose a model suitable for your trailer and budget. 

Optimizing HVAC System Performance 

In all types of homes, HVAC systems account for nearly half of the home’s energy use. Optimizing HVAC performance and making mobile home HVAC upgrades can yield savings of 10% to 30% or more on energy bills.  

Scheduling routine service and regularly changing the filters on your system can be incredibly helpful in prolonging the life of the equipment and optimizing its performance. Additionally, opting for high efficiency HVAC equipment can make your trailer home more energy efficient. You will also enjoy more durability and improved comfort year-round. Insulation alone can make a huge difference in HVAC system performance.  

Additional ways to improve HVAC performance include: 

• Adding a roof coating designed to reflect sunlight and keep the trailer cooler 
• Installing energy efficient doors and windows  
• Sealing gaps and air leaks with caulk 

Improve Your Water Heater’s Efficiency 

Next to your trailer home’s HVAC system, the next biggest energy consumption comes from your water heater. Routine inspection of a trailer home’s water heater is essential. Other helpful actions you can take include: 

• Fixing any leaks or corrosion 
• Replacing worn anode rods 
• Regularly flushing the tank to minimize mineral deposits, which can reduce efficiency 

Like anything else, water heaters don’t last forever. If you have to make frequent repairs, experience uneven heating, or notice unexplainably rising energy costs, it may be time to upgrade to a new, more efficient model.  

Available Grants and Rebates 

Standard has two primary goals: helping you save money and expanding access to the upgrades necessary to live more comfortably and efficiently. Grants and rebates are an excellent way to make the trailer home energy upgrades you need at an affordable price point.  

Standard’s team can help you find the incentives you qualify for, including programs designed to save money on heat pumps, insulation, and more. 

Get Free Trailer Home Energy Improvements 

Programs like EmPower New York provide access to free energy upgrades for income-qualifying homeowners. Even if you don’t meet the requirements, you will likely qualify for the EmPower Plus program, which pays up to 50% of the cost. Check to see if you qualify for free energy upgrades today to start planning your trailer home improvements.  

Energy Audit 

Standard approaches every home, including trailer, mobile, and modular units, as unique. We begin with an energy audit conducted by certified technicians who perform detailed inspections and specialized testing. This allows us to determine how your home uses energy and where it wastes it. From there, we devise a customized plan to help you enjoy reductions in energy costs.  

FAQs 

How can I make my mobile home more energy efficient? 

Adding insulation and upgrading HVAC equipment and water heaters can make a tremendous difference in your mobile home’s energy usage. 

Are there any government incentives available for energy efficient upgrades in mobile homes? 

Yes. Standard can help connect you with numerous programs, including tax incentives, rebates, and grant programs like EmPower New York.  

Can I perform these upgrades myself, or do I need professional help? 

You can tackle some upgrades on your own, including maintenance and simple energy saving steps like caulking and sealing air leaks. However, for the most part, getting professional help provides the best guidance and allows you to prioritize the upgrades that will make the biggest impact. Additionally, because of the complexities of retrofitting mobile homes, working with an experienced contractor is typically advised. 

What are the benefits of heat pumps in cold climates? 

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular in cold climates. These systems outperform traditional heating systems, providing efficient heating and cooling using ambient air from outside. They can provide up to 400% more efficient operation.  

What is the best heat source for a mobile home? 

Heat pumps are popular options that offer energy efficiency and excellent comfort. Other options include forced-air furnaces and baseboard heaters. Working with a professional, you can determine the best heating option for your particular needs. 

Do I qualify for a free audit visit? 

Yes. Standard will provide a free energy audit and consultation to help you decide what steps make the most sense for your home.  

Are trailer homes heat efficient? 

No. Most trailer homes lack adequate insulation, making them incredibly energy inefficient.  

Should I consider retrofitting my modular home for energy improvement? 

Yes. Mobile and modular homes, particularly older ones, are notorious for energy inefficiencies. To save money and reduce your home’s energy consumption, retrofitting is a must.