By Jes Wickham
Chemung County resident Francene Hulslander was dealing with a drafty home and high energy bills when she learned about Smart Energy Choices while at a senior luncheon. After guidance from Community Energy Advisor (CEA) Rebecca Spallone, she applied and received assistance for several energy-related improvements. Now, she’s living more comfortably with fewer energy worries.
Hulslander, as she explained, is on the advisory board for Chemung Volunteer Action Corps, which brought her to the senior luncheon where she met Spallone, along with her colleague, CEA Carol English. Spallone later connected with her to hear more about her living situation and what energy improvements could be made.
“She gave me a lot of good advice on what needed to be done and how it would be done and the time frame on it and just those general things that we looked at at the house that should be done,” Huslander said.
Francene Hulslander shows off her new heat pump water heater. Photo by Carol English.
In the end, Hulslander received a new heat pump water heater (pictured), a new electric panel, and a new freezer, as well as improved insulation and electrical work. She said this has all made a big difference for her.
“As far as the comfort goes, it's much warmer,” she said.
And while it hasn’t gotten cold enough for Hulslander to compare heating bills, she’s optimistic based on her bills so far that her energy costs will also be lower than before.
Hulslander spoke positively about her experience working with her contractor.
“They were very accommodating, and they knew what they were doing, and they got their work done,” she said. “And as a matter of fact, when they came to put the insulation in, they found the gas leak down cellar, which I did not even know. And they fixed that for me. Yeah, they were wonderful.”
While Hulslander primarily worked with Spallone, English also reached out to answer any follow-up questions Hulslander had. Hulslander said working with Spallone, English, and Smart Energy Choices was a great experience.
“Oh gosh, they were wonderful,” she said. “And they gave me so much information, and they got everything done that I thought needed to be done. And they were working with Isaac also. And if I had any problem, I just give her a call. And they were great.”
If you’re facing similar energy challenges, CEAs are standing by to help. Visit smartenergychoices.org/get-help for more information.