Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning Company Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse

Geothermal Heating vs. Traditional Systems: Is It Worth the Price in Rochester & Syracuse?

2026-01-08T00:00:00.05Z

If you're a homeowner in the Rochester or Syracuse area researching more efficient ways to heat your home, you've likely come across geothermal heating. But how does the cost of geothermal compare to traditional systems like gas furnaces or boilers? And more importantly, is geothermal worth it, even with the end of the federal 25C tax credit?

Let’s break down the real cost of geothermal heating (and cooling), value, and benefits of geothermal in the Finger Lakes to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Geothermal Heating?

Geothermal heating, also called a ground-source heat pump system, uses the consistent temperature found below the earth’s surface to heat and cool your home. Unlike traditional systems that burn fuel or use energy to pull heat from cold winter air, geothermal systems use significantly less energy to extract heat from underground, making them one of the most efficient home heating options available.

Home Geothermal System Cost: What to Expect

The price of a geothermal system varies based on home size, site conditions, and whether you need to upgrade insulation or ductwork. In general, you can expect:

Installation Cost: $35,000–$65,000 (includes excavation, loop installation, and system)
Operating Cost: Lower than traditional systems, significantly more efficient in extreme cold
Maintenance Costs: Lower than fossil-fuel systems, fewer moving parts, and no combustion

Why Geothermal Heat Pumps Are More Efficient than Air Source Heat Pumps

Unlike air source heat pumps, which must work harder to extract heat from increasingly colder winter air, a geothermal system’s efficiency remains stable because it is not dependent on the outside air temperature. As outdoor temperatures dip below 35°F, an air source heat pump's performance often drops significantly, sometimes requiring supplemental, less-efficient electric resistance heat to maintain comfort. Geothermal systems, however, draw on a consistent temperature, allowing the system to operate at peak efficiency year-round and bypass any cold-weather efficiency loss entirely.

When Geothermal Makes Sense in Rochester & Syracuse

Geothermal heating is a smart long-term investment in the Rochester and Syracuse region under the right conditions. If you have sufficient open land or access to drillable ground, geothermal becomes a highly efficient and cost-effective solution, especially when paired with other upgrades that make your home more efficient as well, like insulation and air sealing.

At Halco, we’ve found geothermal makes the most sense when all of the following apply:

You're ready to invest in long-term energy savings
You want to reduce or eliminate fossil fuel use
You have adequate yard space for horizontal loops or viable drilling access for vertical loops
Your home has, or will have, proper insulation and air sealing

Why Land Matters

Unlike air-source heat pumps, geothermal systems require underground piping, either laid out horizontally across your yard or drilled vertically deep into the ground. If your lot doesn’t have enough unobstructed space (free of major landscaping, underground utilities, or rock ledges), installation may be limited or cost-prohibitive.

That’s why site conditions are key. Halco Home Solutions can assess your land’s suitability and help determine the most efficient configuration for your home.

Geothermal Advantages in Upstate NY:

Stable Year-Round Performance – Ground temperatures stay steady around 50°F, even in subzero weather
Lower Monthly Energy Bills – Many homeowners reduce heating costs by 30–70%
No Combustion – Safe, clean heat with no carbon monoxide risk
Quiet Operation – No noisy outdoor units or fans
Eco-Friendly – Dramatically reduces your carbon footprint

Geothermal also works especially well in older home retrofits, where Halco’s insulation and air sealing improvements help maximize system efficiency and comfort.

What About Geothermal Incentives?

While the 25C residential tax credit has ended as of 2026, other incentives are still available - and some have recently increased:

NYSERDA Rebates for qualified ground-source heat pumps, with larger amounts going to retrofit installations over new construction.
Low-interest energy efficiency financing
Potential property tax exemptions
Other utility rebates and grants, depending on your location and income
Increased State Tax Credit: The state credit for geothermal installation is now 25% of total installation costs, with an increased cap of $10,000 (up from $5,000) for systems installed on or after July 1, 2025.

Plus, with energy costs continuing to rise, geothermal’s long-term value only increases. Think of it as investing in energy independence: no more oil deliveries, gas bills, or price spikes.

Geothermal vs. Traditional Heating: The Real Price Comparison

Cost Factor	Geothermal System	Traditional Furnace/Boiler/AC
Upfront Cost	Higher ($35k–$65k)	Lower ($8k–$18k)
Monthly Energy Bills	~30%–70% lower	Higher, rising with fuel prices
Maintenance	Minimal	Regular repairs, tune-ups
Lifespan	20–25 years (unit), 50+ (ground loops)	10–15 years
Environmental Impact	Minimal (renewable energy)	High (fossil fuel combustion)
Comfort in Cold Weather	Stable, efficient at subzero temps	Efficient, but fuel delivery reliant

Why Work with Halco Home Solutions?

We’re not just the most experienced geothermal installers in the region, we’re your full-home energy experts. From insulation to excavation to renewable systems, Halco handles it all in-house, with locally owned expertise and unmatched regional experience. And like all of our work in any home, we restore the affected land to its finished grade, ensuring the site appears undisturbed.

Decades of geothermal experience in the Finger Lakes
Locally owned & operated, not private equity
Full-service energy audits & weatherization
Year-round support, 24/7/365

We understand what it takes to keep homes warm in the Finger Lakes and beyond, because we live here too.

Final Take: Is Geothermal Worth It?

If you’re building a new home, planning a major retrofit, or simply want to stop relying on fossil fuels, geothermal is one of the smartest investments you can make. Even without tax credits, the fuel savings and long-term efficiency make geothermal a high-value, low-maintenance alternative to traditional heating systems. You’d be hard-pressed to find any other team more experienced than the Halco Home Solutions team in designing and installing geothermal systems in the Finger Lakes. If it involves your home comfort and efficiency, “yes, we do that!”

Get efficiency and comfort designed for the future, with geothermal heating in your Finger Lakes home. Call Halco today at 833-844-2622.

Common Problems with Oil Boilers, and When It's Time to Replace

2025-11-30T00:00:00.05Z

Homeowners in the Finger Lakes have relied on oil boilers to keep them warm for decades. But if your system is sputtering like a basement gremlin, your tank is emptying faster than you can call the oil company, or it's just not keeping up with the cold anymore, it may be time to consider a boiler upgrade.

At Halco Home Solutions, we help homeowners across Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, and the rest of the Finger Lakes solve long-standing oil boiler issues and, in many cases, switch to cleaner, more efficient systems like cold-climate heat pumps. Here's what you need to know about common oil boiler problems and how to tell when replacement is your best option.

Common Oil Boiler Problems

Oil-burning systems are known for their durability, but they will show signs of age that indicate it's time for boiler replacement or a new heating system entirely. Here are some of the most frequent issues our HVAC techs encounter:

Rising Heating Costs

If you’ve noticed you’re filling your oil tank more often or your heating bills are suddenly spiking, your boiler may be nearing the end of its lifespan. As efficiency drops, older systems tend to burn more fuel just to keep up, especially in the middle of a Finger Lakes winter. With oil prices already unpredictable, this is a smart time to explore more efficient, cost-effective heating options like heat pumps or hybrid systems.

Frequent Burner Lockouts

If your boiler suddenly stops working and needs to be reset at the oil burner, it’s likely going into lockout mode. This could point to dirty filters, a clogged nozzle, or a failing ignition system, all of which are signs of wear and tear on your boiler.

Soot Buildup & Smoke

Oil combustion produces soot. Over time, buildup in the boiler's heat exchanger or flue pipe can lead to reduced efficiency, poor indoor air quality, and even safety risks like carbon monoxide backdrafting.

Strong Fuel Odors

That unmistakable fuel oil smell can indicate a leak, a cracked heat exchanger, or poor ventilation. These issues require immediate attention and are red flags for future reliability.

Inconsistent or Insufficient Heat

Older oil boilers often struggle to provide consistent heat throughout the home, especially in larger or multi-story homes. If your radiators are slow to warm up or you have persistent cold spots, your system's performance or distribution components may be to blame.

Ready for an Upgrade? Consider a Cold-Climate Heat Pump

If you're still heating with oil, switching to a cold-climate heat pump is one of the most efficient, cost-saving, and climate-forward upgrades you can make. At Halco, we install a wide range of high-performance systems designed specifically for our winters, including ducted and ductless air source heat pumps, hybrid setups that pair a high-efficiency boiler or furnace with a heat pump, and ultra-efficient geothermal systems. Making the switch:

Eliminates the need for fuel deliveries and bulky oil tanks
Improves indoor air quality
Gives you year-round comfort with one all-electric system

We also offer the latest in heat pump technology, including Midea Cold-Climate Heat Pumps, which deliver 100% heating output down to −13°F, using advanced inverter-driven technology built for our region’s harshest conditions, and they qualify for valuable NYS clean energy incentives to help offset the cost.

Insulation Comes First (Don’t Skip This Step!)

Before you install any new heating system, make sure your home’s building envelope is sealed.

Halco specializes in whole-home energy solutions that improve the efficiency of your home from the outside in, making the job of your heating system much easier.

Even the best heat pump or boiler will underperform in a drafty home. We help you stop heat loss at the source, so you stay comfortable and save year-round.

Why Choose Halco for Oil Boiler Replacement?

As a locally owned and operated company, Halco has been serving the Finger Lakes region since 1984. Unlike private equity–owned chains, we’re rooted in this community and built for this climate.

When you call Halco, you get:

Full-service support, from diagnostics to installation to insulation and beyond
24/7 emergency response
Access to rebates, financing, and custom-designed systems
A team that always picks up the phone, even in the middle of a snowstorm

Whether you’re dealing with constant oil boiler repairs or just ready to stop relying on fuel deliveries, Halco is here to help you transition to a cleaner, more reliable system.

Let’s talk about replacing your oil boiler. Call Halco at 866-606-3165 to schedule a consultation.

Cold-Weather Comfort Has Arrived: Why Homes Need Midea Cold-Climate Heat Pumps

2025-11-07T00:00:00.05Z

When you live in places like Syracuse, Rochester, or anywhere else throughout the Finger Lakes, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a challenge. From lake-effect snow and subzero wind chills to long heating seasons that stretch from fall into spring, your home needs a heating system that’s built to handle the extremes.

Fortunately for homeowners looking for a replacement for their failing or inefficient systems, there are high-performance options that are specifically designed to deliver reliable, energy-efficient heat even on the coldest nights. They’re a perfect fit for local homes looking to save on fuel costs, boost comfort, and reduce carbon emissions, so let's dive into what makes Midea heat pumps a fit for the cold, wet winters of the Finger Lakes.

Midea Cold-Climate Heat Pumps: Built for the Toughest Winters

Most heat pumps start to lose efficiency when temperatures drop into the 20s or teens, because there isn’t quite enough heat in the air. This requires a switch to “strip heat”, which requires much more energy.

But Midea cold-climate heat pumps maintain 100% capacity at −13°F on select models. That’s a game-changer for Syracuse’s snowstorms, Rochester’s wind chills, and the extended freezing temps. With advanced features like Enhanced Vapor Injection (EVI), smart defrost cycles, and inverter-driven compression, Midea systems deliver consistent warmth without constantly relying on expensive electric strip heat. And they do it all with whisper-quiet operation, so you stay cozy without the noise.

Heat Pumps are Great in Older Homes

Homes in Rochester and Syracuse range from century-old colonials to modern townhouses, and older farmhouses to lakeside homes, all with limited insulation or outdated ductwork.

That’s why Midea’s flexibility matters. Whether you need a ductless mini-split, a ducted full-home system, or a hybrid setup that works alongside your existing furnace, Halco Home Services can design a system that matches your home and your budget.

Plus, we do the hard work up front to diagnose your home, and ensure it is not wasting energy in other ways that will undermine the efficiency of your new heating and cooling system.

Don’t Forget Insulation

Before upgrading your heating and or cooling system, Halco always focuses on building envelope improvements first, since they can affect the heating and cooling load. Proper attic insulation, basement air sealing, and ductwork optimization make a dramatic difference in how well your heat pump performs by reducing the amount of energy lost between the indoor and outdoor environments.

In short, when your home is properly sealed and insulated, your heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard, which leads to lower energy use, longer system lifespan, and better comfort in every room.

Schedule Before Winter Hits

Cold snaps in Syracuse, Rochester, and the Finger Lakes can arrive suddenly, and when they do, heating demand spikes. That’s why Halco Home Services recommends scheduling your installation or upgrade in fall or early spring, when our calendars are more flexible and the weather makes installs easier.

Our full-service approach includes:

Comprehensive home energy assessments
Custom system design
Expert installation
Ongoing heating and cooling maintenance plans with 24/7 support

Get Cold-Climate Comfort Backed by Local Expertise

Midea cold-climate heat pumps are built for the exact conditions we face here in Syracuse, Rochester, and the Finger Lakes. And when you work with Halco, you’re getting more than a great system. You’re getting a trusted local partner who understands your home, your region, and your needs.

Ready to upgrade your home’s heating? Call Halco Home Services today at 1-833-844-2622 for a Midea cold-climate heat pump installation!

Expanding Comfort Options with Midea Systems at Halco

2025-09-22T00:00:00.05Z

We’re Excited to Offer the Full Line of Midea Products

At Halco Home Solutions, we’re always looking for ways to bring you the best in home performance, comfort, and efficiency. We’re proud to announce that we now offer the full line of Midea heating, cooling, and electrification-ready systems. This means you’ll have even more choices and performance options from one trusted source.

Why Midea?

Midea is recognized across the HVAC industry for its innovation, retrofit-friendly design, and cold-climate readiness. These qualities align directly with our mission to deliver high-performance home solutions throughout Upstate New York.

A recent article by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) highlights how Midea systems are designed for easier installation, especially in retrofit situations. This makes it simpler for homeowners to upgrade without major electrical or structural changes.
They also emphasize cold-climate performance and smart grid compatibility, which are especially valuable in our region. You can read the full ACCA article here.

What This Means for You

More Choice and a Better Fit: Whether you are replacing an older furnace, upgrading to a heat pump, or planning full home electrification, Midea offers options that match your home’s infrastructure and budget.
Ease of Installation: Midea’s retrofit-ready design helps make installation faster and less disruptive.
Built for the Future: With cold-climate capable models and smart features, these systems are designed to perform now and adapt as technology and energy systems evolve.
Backed by Halco Expertise: With our decades of experience, comprehensive electrical, plumbing, and HVAC licensing, and full-service capabilities, we are uniquely equipped to specify, install, and support Midea systems in real homes.

Ready to Learn More?

If you would like to learn how a Midea system could fit your home, or explore an upgrade path that includes insulation, air sealing, and heat pump readiness, give us a call or schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to show you how this next generation of home comfort can work for you.

You can also read the ACCA article for more on how Midea is helping advance heat pump technology and the HVAC industry.

Halco Founder Reflects on 41 Years of Growth

2025-09-25T00:00:00.05Z

In a recent feature in the Ithaca Times (September 24, 2025 edition), Halco founder and CEO Hal Smith reflected on the company’s journey and the values that have guided our growth since 1984. Known for our bright, colorful trucks and courteous crews, Halco has earned a reputation for professionalism and customer care across Upstate New York.

Smith emphasized the importance of treating employees well, believing that “happy staff create happy customers.” He also spoke about the company’s steady expansion, the lessons learned from decades of hands-on work, and his gratitude for his team, family, and loyal customers.

Read the full story in the Ithaca Times here: https://issuu.com/ithacatimes/docs/sept._24_2025/14

When the Ground Shifts: Excavation & Drainage Tips for Rochester's Clay-Heavy Soil

2025-09-24T00:00:00.05Z

If you've ever stepped outside in early spring and found your yard squishing beneath your boots, you’re not alone. Across Rochester and the Finger Lakes, soggy yards and shifting soil are a seasonal headache for many homeowners, and clay-heavy soils are often to blame.

At Halco Home Solutions, we understand how Upstate New York’s unique soil composition, freeze-thaw cycles, and high water tables impact everything from your lawn’s drainage to your geothermal system’s performance. Whether you're planning a home improvement project, troubleshooting seasonal flooding, or you’re just curious why you keep getting your slippers muddy, here’s what you need to know and how we can help.

What Causes Soggy Yards in Rochester?

Heavy snowmelt, spring rain, and slow-draining soil create the perfect storm for waterlogged yards. Common culprits include:

Clay Soil: Predominant in Rochester, clay drains slowly and holds moisture longer than sandy or loamy soil.
Poor Grading: If your yard slopes toward your home or has low spots, water will naturally collect.
High Water Table: Saturated ground can make even minor rainfall a drainage issue.
Blocked or Misrouted Downspouts: Downspouts that empty near your foundation can lead to basement moisture or erosion.

Left unaddressed, these issues don’t just affect your lawn. They can also undermine your foundation, flood your basement, and affect your geothermal system’s loops.

Strategic Solutions from Local Excavation Experts

As a locally owned and operated business with decades of hands-on experience digging in Rochester, Halco knows what works for the local soil and climate. We take a customized approach to every excavation and drainage project. We may recommend:

1. French Drains

A tried-and-true method for redirecting groundwater away from problem areas, French drains consist of a gravel trench and a perforated pipe that channels water away from your foundation or yard. Ideal for low-lying sections of your lawn or areas where water consistently pools.

2. Swales

Gently sloped ditches designed to slow and guide surface water runoff, swales are particularly effective on properties with moderate slopes. They also offer a more natural look compared to rigid drainage systems.

3. Downspout Redirection

We often see homes where downspouts dump water directly next to the foundation. Halco will extend or reroute these outlets to discharge water well away from your home, and potentially into a designated drainage system.

4. Sump Pump Tie-Ins

If your basement sump pump is constantly running, it may be time to integrate it with your exterior drainage. We can connect your sump pump system to French drains or exterior piping for more efficient, worry-free water removal.

Why Proper Drainage Matters for Geothermal HVAC Systems

Halco Home Solutions installs more vertical and horizontal loop geothermal systems than any other contractor in the Finger Lakes. These underground systems are remarkably energy efficient. But they rely on stable soil conditions and consistent moisture levels. Too much groundwater can reduce their efficiency and damage components.

That’s why we assess soil conditions and water table levels, and reference them against seasonal moisture trends before designing and installing any geothermal solution. Our excavation team ensures that trenches and boreholes are properly prepared and drained, protecting your investment and optimizing system performance year-round.

Need Drainage or Excavation Help? Yes, Halco Does That!

If soggy soil is threatening your home’s foundation, lawn, or mechanical systems, Halco Home Solutions is here to help. Whether it’s installing a French drain, redirecting runoff, or preparing the ground for a geothermal install, our team delivers expert excavation and drainage services rooted in local experience. Let Halco fix the source, not just the symptoms, of your yard drainage issues. Because when the ground shifts, you need a partner who knows the terrain.

Looking for excavation help for your Rochester property? Yes, Halco does that! Call us today at 1-833-844-2622.

Where Is Your Syracuse Home Losing the Most Energy & Why Insulation Matters First

2025-09-17T00:00:00.05Z

Syracuse winters aren’t just cold; they’re relentless. With snowstorms that arrive one after the other and bitter winds blowing in off Onondaga Lake, your home heating system is working overtime every single year. But staying warm in the Finger Lakes takes more than just a functioning furnace. It takes a home that’s built to hold onto heat.

At Halco Home Solutions, we’ve been helping Syracuse homeowners uncover hidden sources of heat loss for decades. And while many assume they need a bigger heating system or newer technology, the truth is: the best place to start is by stopping the heat from escaping in the first place.

Here’s how a professional home energy assessment can end with a home that’s ready for smart upgrades like heat pumps, geothermal, or solar.

Syracuse’s Housing Stock: Charm + Character = Efficiency Challenges

Much of Syracuse’s housing was built in an era before energy codes. From 1800s-era homes in Strathmore and Sedgwick to Cape Cods and ranches in Eastwood, these homes are packed with character, not insulation.

Here’s what we regularly find in Syracuse homes:

Attics with little to no insulation, allowing warm air to escape upward
Drafty basements and crawl spaces pulling in cold air from below
Gaps around rim joists, plumbing penetrations, and attic hatches
Old, oversized furnaces trying to make up for inefficient structures

You can replace your heating system, but without addressing these core inefficiencies, you’ll just spend more to still lose heat, comfort, and money.

Where Is Your Home Losing the Most Energy?

The first step in fixing energy waste is finding it. That’s why every Halco project begins with a professional home energy assessment using advanced tools like blower door testing and thermal imaging.

In Syracuse homes, we most often uncover trouble in these three critical areas:

1. The Attic

Warm air rises, and in the dead of winter, it escapes right out of under-insulated attics. This is the number one source of energy loss in the homes we inspect across Central New York. It also contributes to ice damming and roof issues during snow-heavy months.

2. The Basement or Crawl Space

Syracuse’s frost line runs deep, and so does the cold. Gaps in your basement foundation or rim joists pull freezing air upward, chilling floors and forcing your furnace to run nonstop.

3. The Pressure Boundary / Air Seal

The pressure boundary is your home’s defense line. It’s the seal between indoors and outdoors. If that seal is leaky, conditioned air escapes and outside air creeps in, no matter how efficient your heating system is.

Why Insulation and Air Sealing Come First

At Halco, we follow a building-envelope-first approach because no mechanical system can perform efficiently in a leaky, under-insulated home.

We start by insulating the top and bottom of the home (attic and basement), and air sealing all leaks in the pressure boundary. This creates a controlled, energy-efficient indoor environment that:

Reduces heating and cooling demand

Boosts indoor comfort and temperature consistency

Increases the impact of HVAC upgrades and solar

Prepares your home for clean, renewable energy options

What Comes Next? Energy Efficient, Forward-Thinking Systems

Once your home is sealed and insulated, you’re ready for next-level comfort and savings. Halco Home Solutions can help you install:

Ducted or ductless cold-climate heat pumps
Hybrid systems for enhanced performance
Geothermal heat pumps, ideal for deep retrofits and long-term sustainability
Solar energy systems and battery storage to help you generate your own power

But remember, insulation comes first. It’s not about generating more heat. It’s about keeping the heat you already paid for.

Yes, We Do That in Syracuse

Halco isn’t just another contractor. We’re your locally owned, full-service energy experts, serving Syracuse and the surrounding region for over 35 years.

Whether your home needs insulation, air sealing, a new HVAC system, updated electrical, plumbing support, or renewable energy solutions, yes, we do that. And we do it with our own in-house team, not subcontractors or out-of-town crews.

No hidden investors. No corporate red tape. Just honest, whole-home solutions from people who live and work in Central New York.

Find out where your Syracuse home is losing energy! Schedule a professional energy assessment with Halco Home Solutions today at 1-833-844-2622.

Where Is Your Rochester Home Losing the Most Energy, And Why Insulation Comes First

2025-09-15T00:00:00.05Z

Winters in Rochester, NY, aren’t just cold, they're intense. With frequent lake-effect snow, extended subzero temperatures, and biting wind chills, Rochester homes need more than just a working furnace to stay warm; they need to be energy-efficient from the inside out, and the outside in.

At Halco Home Solutions, we’ve been helping Rochester homeowners identify and solve energy loss issues for decades. And while many people assume the solution lies in buying a bigger heating system, the smarter way to improve your home comfort is to stop the heat from escaping before you generate more of it.

Let’s break down how Halco’s home energy assessments uncover the real issues, and how you get a warmer, more efficient home.

Rochester’s Housing Stock: Built Before Efficiency Was a Priority

Rochester’s vintage architectural charm often comes with a hidden cost: inefficiency. Many homes in the city were built before modern energy codes existed. From 1920s Colonials and Victorians to post-war bungalows and ranches, these houses weren’t originally designed with energy performance in mind.

Here’s what we commonly see:

Under-insulated attics that leak, allowing warm air to rise
Uninsulated or poorly insulated basements and crawl spaces allowing cold outside air in
Air gaps and drafts around rim joists, windows, doors, and electrical penetrations
Old or improperly vented heating systems working overtime to compensate

Without proper insulation and air sealing, even the most advanced heat pump or furnace will struggle to maintain comfort, and your energy bills will keep climbing.

Where Is Your Home Losing the Most Energy?

As building science professionals, it's our protocol to begin every efficiency journey with a comprehensive home energy assessment, using tools like blower door tests and thermal imaging to identify heat loss points.

Our assessments often address three areas that need the most improvement:

The Attic

Hot air rises. And if your attic is under-insulated, it escapes straight through the roof. This is the #1 source of energy loss in most Rochester homes, and is also known to cause ice dams.

Basement or Crawl Space

Cold air seeps in through gaps in foundation walls and uninsulated floors, chilling your home from the bottom up. This is often the cause of cold morning floors!

The Pressure Boundary/Air Seal

The “pressure boundary” refers to the envelope of your home, the sealed barrier that separates the conditioned space from the outside.

Why Insulation and Air Sealing Come First

With our building envelope-first approach, we start by insulating the top and bottom of your home, then sealing it up tight. This method:

Reduces heating and cooling demand
Improves indoor comfort and consistency
Maximizes the performance of HVAC systems and renewables
Lays the foundation for clean energy upgrades like heat pumps or solar

The Next Step? Smarter, More Efficient Systems

Once your home is sealed and insulated, we can help you size and install:

Cold-climate air source heat pumps (ducted or ductless)
Hybrid systems that pair with existing furnaces
Geothermal heat pumps, ideal for deep retrofits and long-term savings
Solar panels and battery storage, made more effective by lower energy demands

But again, none of this performs at its best without first fixing insulation and air sealing. It's not just about heating, it's about keeping the heat you’ve already paid for.

Yes, We Do That in Rochester!

At Halco Home Solutions, we’re your locally owned and operated, full-service home solutions team, based right here in the Finger Lakes. We know what Rochester homes need to stay warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and efficient year-round.

Whether it’s a home energy assessment, insulation and air sealing, HVAC upgrades, plumbing, electrical, solar, or geothermal, yes, we do that. And we do it all in-house, with no subcontractors and no shortcuts, no hidden private equity buyouts. Just trusted experts delivering comprehensive solutions from people who live and work in your community.

Take the First Step Toward a More Efficient Home

If your energy bills are high and your home feels drafty, it’s time to find out where your Rochester home is losing the most energy, and fix it for good.

Schedule a no-obligation energy assessment with Halco Home Solutions today. Call 1-833-844-2622.

Bringing Syracuse's Vintage Homes into 21st Century Comfort: Insulation, Air Sealing & Smart Upgrades

2025-09-05T00:00:00.05Z

Syracuse is known for its stately architecture, charming historic neighborhoods, and long, snowy winters. From the classic colonials in Sedgwick to the brick beauties of Strathmore, the city is home to hundreds of pre-1950s houses full of character. But beneath that charm lies a common challenge: these older homes were simply not built for modern comfort or energy efficiency.

The Common Challenges of Syracuse’s Historic Homes

Homes built before 1950 were constructed with very different standards than those we use today. Modern insulation materials, airtight construction practices, and efficient heating systems didn’t exist back then. As a result, many of these homes face issues like:

Drafty rooms and cold floors from unsealed gaps and poorly insulated crawlspaces
High heating bills due to inefficient boilers and constant heat loss
Outdated insulation materials, or no insulation at all
Moisture issues and temperature fluctuations that strain HVAC systems
Retrofit limitations like plaster walls, knob-and-tube wiring, and balloon framing

Living in a historic Syracuse home doesn’t have to mean choosing between comfort and heritage. The solution starts with building science fundamentals: insulation and air sealing.

Why Insulation & Air Sealing Come First

Before upgrading to a sleek new heat pump or investing in solar panels, your home needs a strong thermal envelope. That means stopping air leaks and ensuring your home is properly insulated, top to bottom. Insulation acts like a blanket for your home, slowing down heat transfer. It keeps warm air inside during winter and outside during summer. Air sealing targets the gaps and cracks that allow heated air to escape and cold air to creep in around windows, door frames, attic hatches, rim joists, and more.

Without a sealed and insulated home, you’ll never see the full benefit of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.

Even the most advanced heat pump will struggle in a leaky, under-insulated home.

At Halco Home Solutions, we strongly recommend that our customers build the envelope before upgrading the equipment.

Future-Ready: Insulation Sets the Stage for Smart Energy Upgrades

Once your home's envelope is sealed and insulated, you're ready to take advantage of modern, clean energy systems that offer serious savings in long term efficiency:

Cold-climate air source heat pumps that provide efficient heating and cooling, even during Syracuse’s bitter cold
Geothermal systems that tap into the earth’s stable temperatures for ultra-efficient, fossil-fuel-free heating
Solar panels that generate your own electricity, made even more effective by reducing the overall energy load of your home

Each of these upgrades depends on a properly insulated, airtight home to perform at peak efficiency. Investing in insulation first not only improves comfort today, it makes every future investment smarter and more effective.

The Halco Difference: Yes, We Do That!

At Halco, we take a comprehensive, whole-home approach to energy solutions. We’re not a one-service company or subcontractor. We’re not here just to sell you a heat pump or blow some insulation in your attic and move on to the next appointment. We evaluate how every system in your home interacts, from insulation and air sealing to HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and even renewable energy.

We often hear from customers who say, "I got a cheaper quote from another company."

And you probably might too, but here’s the truth:

You can hire someone to install a mini split, but if your walls leak heat like a sieve, that system will underperform. You can hire someone to blow insulation in your attic, but if they don’t seal air leaks or check ventilation, you could create new moisture problems.

That’s why our "Yes, We Do That!" mentality matters.

We provide:

Comprehensive energy assessments
Blower door testing and thermal imaging
Manual J load calculations for right-sized HVAC installation
Insulation, air sealing, and ventilation upgrades
Ductless, ducted, geothermal, and hybrid heat pumps
Solar and battery storage
Plumbing and electrical system modernization
And more

When all these pieces work together, you get a home that is not only warmer, but healthier, quieter, more efficient, and future-proof.

Halco Home Solutions Understands Syracuse Homes

Halco has served Central and Upstate New York for decades. We live here. We know what winter in Syracuse really means, and we specialize in retrofitting older homes with modern, high-performance systems without sacrificing their historic charm.

Whether you're tired of cold floors, rising energy bills, or struggling to make a 100-year-old home more comfortable, Halco Home Solutions is here to help.

Let’s bring your Syracuse home into the 21st century, one smart upgrade at a time. Call 1-833-844-2622 or schedule your home energy assessment today!

Old Homes, New Comfort: How to Retrofit Rochester Houses for Year-Round Efficiency

2025-09-03T00:00:00.05Z

Rochester is a city built on history. With tree-lined streets, century-old architecture, and neighborhoods like Browncroft, East Avenue, and Corn Hill filled with character-rich homes, it’s no wonder so many homeowners love where they live. But many Rochester houses built before 1950 face a common issue: they weren’t designed for today’s comfort, energy efficiency standards, or the demands of modern living.

If your home is drafty, hard to heat in winter, or struggles to stay cool in summer, you're not alone. A smart comfort and energy retrofit with Halco Home Solutions can transform your older Rochester home into a comfortable, energy-efficient space, without sacrificing its charm.

The Challenge of Rochester's Aging Housing Stock

More than half of the homes in Rochester are over 75 years old, with many now reaching or exceeding the 100-year mark. These historic homes often come with beautiful architecture but big energy problems:

Little or damaged insulation in walls, attics, or crawl spaces
Air leaks around windows, doors, foundations, and attic hatches
Outdated heating and cooling systems
Leaky ductwork or vents
Moisture concerns from poor ventilation or uncontrolled airflow
Electrical and mechanical limitations that complicate upgrades

Without modern building materials or construction practices, these homes lose heat quickly in the winter and gain it in the summer, straining comfort systems and driving up energy bills.

Improving the Building Envelope: Insulation & Air Sealing

At Halco Home Solutions, we believe the foundation of any energy retrofit is a properly sealed and insulated building envelope, which blocks heat in the summer and keeps it inside in the winter. Before you invest in new mechanical equipment like a heat pump or solar, make sure your home is holding onto the energy it already has.

Key areas to focus on during an energy retrofit include attics, exterior walls, basements, and rim joists, which are often overlooked but essential for comfort. Don’t forget windows and doors, where air sealing and weatherstripping can significantly reduce drafts. With proper insulation and air sealing in these areas, your home becomes a stable, comfortable, efficient environment that’s ready for the next phase of energy upgrades.

Prepare for Heat Pumps, Solar & Geothermal

Once your envelope is optimized, your home is ready for modern energy systems like:

Cold-climate air source heat pumps
Geothermal systems
Solar panels
Heat pump and hybrid water heaters

All of these technologies depend on a well-insulated, airtight home to perform efficiently. Skipping insulation and jumping straight to equipment leads to underperformance, higher costs, and customer frustration.

At Halco Home Solutions, we never recommend a system without addressing the building envelope first. It’s the only way to maximize efficiency and long-term savings.

Why Halco? Because "Yes, We Do That!"

Unlike many contractors who specialize in just one trade, Halco provides fully integrated home energy services. That means we don’t just install a heat pump or blow in insulation and call it a day—we look at the whole picture.

We often hear: "Another company quoted me less."

And sure, you can probably find a cheaper quote for a single service. But here’s the catch:

Installing a heat pump in an uninsulated home? It won’t keep up in February.
Adding attic insulation without sealing leaks? You’ll risk trapping moisture and risk mold.
Going solar before reducing energy use? You’ll overpay for solar panels you don’t need.

That’s why Halco’s comprehensive, whole-home approach delivers better results. We don’t just retrofit homes, we make them smarter, healthier, more efficient, and ready for the future.

Trust Rochester’s Local Energy Experts

Halco Home Solutions has served the Greater Rochester area for decades. We know the climate. We understand the quirks of a 100-year-old home. And we specialize in making them better, without sacrificing what makes them special.

Let’s bring your Rochester home into the 21st century, the smart way. Schedule a free home energy assessment today!

Summer Storms & Syracuse Soil: How to Protect Your Yard and Basement from Flash Flooding

2025-09-01T00:00:00.05Z

When the skies open up over Syracuse, yards and lawns turn into a messy swamp in minutes. Thunder rolls in, the rain pours down, and within hours, you’re squishing your shoes deep in water, or worse, mopping up a basement floor.

Summer storms in Central New York are fast, fierce, and getting more frequent. And with the compacted clay soil and aging infrastructure across Syracuse, many properties aren’t equipped to handle that much water. At Halco Home Solutions, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners protect their properties from storm-related damage, while also making their homes more efficient, comfortable, and easier to maintain - from the ground up.

If your yard turns soggy after every storm or your basement has that unmistakable musty smell, here’s what’s likely going wrong, and how we can help.

Why Syracuse Yards and Basements Flood So Easily

There’s no single reason for water problems, it’s often a “perfect storm” of poor drainage, outdated construction, and our region’s dense, slow-draining soil. Here are some of the most common causes we see across the Syracuse area:

Poor Grading: Your yard should slope away from your home, not toward it. Even a subtle slope can send water right to your foundation.
Clay-Heavy Soil: Common in Syracuse, clay doesn’t drain well. Instead of soaking in, water pools and flows across the surface, or straight into your basement.
Overwhelmed Gutters & Downspouts: If your downspouts empty too close to your home, you're just moving water from the roof to the foundation.
Old or Cracked Foundations: Syracuse’s older homes often lack modern waterproofing or have foundation damage that allows water to enter.
Outdated Drainage Systems: Many older properties either lack proper perimeter drains or have ones that are clogged, broken, or improperly pitched.

Proven Flood Prevention Solutions in Syracuse

The Halco Home Solutions team has decades of experience in excavation and waterproofing, and we know exactly how to tackle Central New York’s toughest soil and water problems. Whether you need a small drainage fix or a full basement overhaul, we’ll recommend the right solution for your specific property.

1. French Drains

We install subsurface French drains that capture and redirect groundwater before it reaches your foundation. Ideal for waterlogged yards or persistent soggy spots.

2. Swales

These gently sloped trenches channel surface water away from your home and toward designated drainage areas, especially useful on sloped properties.

3. Downspout Redirection

We’ll extend or reroute your downspouts to ensure water is discharged optimally, far away from your foundation and into designated drainage zones.

4. Sump Pump Tie-Ins

A high-performance sump pump is essential, but it needs to be tied into your drainage system correctly. We’ll install or upgrade your system, complete with backup power options, so you’re protected even during outages.

5. Exterior Waterproofing

For homes with foundation cracks or water seepage, we offer exterior sealing and waterproofing that stops water at the source.

6. Basement & Crawl Space Waterproofing

From encapsulation to vapor barriers, we protect the lower levels of your home from moisture, mold, and long-term structural damage.

How Soil Affects a Geothermal System

If you already have, or are considering, a geothermal heat pump, managing water flow on your property is even more essential. Horizontal loop systems, in particular, can be affected by shifting or saturated soil. Improper drainage could reduce efficiency or damage your system over time.

That’s why Halco always evaluates soil conditions, water table depth, and runoff patterns before any geothermal installation. We do the excavation right the first time, because your long-term performance depends on it.

Storm-Proof Your Syracuse Home, Before the Next Downpour

Don’t wait for the next summer storm to flood your basement or ruin your landscaping. Halco Home Solutions offers full-service excavation, drainage, and waterproofing, tailored to the unique needs of Syracuse-area homes.

Yes, Halco Does That.

Halco is proud to be locally owned and operated, with real boots on the ground throughout the Finger Lakes. Our team understands how Syracuse weather, older neighborhoods, and regional soil conditions all play into your home's performance. National chains and out-of-town contractors just can’t match that level of insight.

From downtown Syracuse to the surrounding suburbs, we’ve seen every kind of flooding and drainage issue, and we’ve solved them all.

From geothermal loops to French drains, sump pumps to storm prep, Halco has you covered. Call 1-833-844-2622 to protect your home from the ground up.

Team Halco Hits the Road: Hands-On Learning at LG Training

2025-05-21T00:00:00.05Z

Diving into LGMV: The Service Tool That Makes a Difference

The training kicked off with an in-depth look at the LGMV service tool, a powerful diagnostic resource for LG HVAC systems. Our team learned how to properly hook up the tool and navigate its interface to extract critical system data. From real-time performance metrics to error code interpretation, we explored where to find the most valuable information to streamline service calls and improve system diagnostics.

Hands-On Experience: Learning by Doing

The real highlight of the day was the hands-on portion of the training. At VP Supply’s state-of-the-art training center, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work:

Disassembled an air handler and high wall head to better understand internal components and system layout.
Troubleshot a circuit board, identifying faults and discussing real-world scenarios we might encounter in the field.
Diagnosed functional equipment, applying what we learned in real time to simulate service calls and system checks.

This kind of hands-on learning is invaluable—it bridges the gap between theory and practice and reinforces our commitment to delivering top-tier service to our customers.

Why It Matters

Training like this ensures that our technicians are not only up to date with the latest tools and technologies but also confident and capable when they’re out in the field. It’s part of our ongoing mission to provide the best solutions and service to every Halco customer.

A big thank you to LG and VP Supply for hosting such an informative and engaging session. We’re excited to bring this knowledge back to our team and continue raising the bar in HVAC excellence.

Power Smarter, Not Harder: How Solar Energy Cuts Costs and Improves Home Efficiency

2025-05-19T00:00:00.05Z

New York may not be known for the year-round sunshine of many of the states to the south of us, but does that mean solar is out of the question for homeowners in the Finger Lakes? From snowy winters in Syracuse to sunny days in the Finger Lakes, solar energy is in fact a smart investment for homeowners across Upstate New York - especially considering electricity rates have more than doubled in the last year!

The truth is, solar power works, and even pays now more than ever here in the Finger Lakes. And when paired with smart home efficiency upgrades and battery storage, it becomes one of the most reliable and cost-effective energy solutions available today.

Whether you live in Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, Phelps, or the broader Finger Lakes region, here’s why it’s time to take a closer look at solar energy with Halco Home Solutions.

Why Solar Power Is a Smart Investment in Upstate New York

Despite our region’s reputation for gray skies, Upstate NY receives more than enough solar radiation to support effective residential solar systems. In fact:

Modern solar panels are highly efficient, even in diffused sunlight like overcast skies.
NY State and Federal incentives significantly reduce upfront costs.
Utility buyback programs (net metering) allow you to earn credits for the excess power you produce.

Solar does not have to be installed on your roof, either. Whether you have ample roof space or some unused land, Halco Home Solutions can install solar panels that offer a strong ROI, especially when paired with a well-sealed and insulated home (more on that below) and battery storage.

Battery Storage: Keep the Lights On When the Grid Goes Down

Extreme weather events are becoming more common across the Northeast, and with them comes the threat of prolonged power outages. Whether it's a snowstorm in Phelps or a summer thunderstorm knocking out power in Rochester, energy security is no longer a luxury—it’s becoming a necessity.

That’s where solar + battery storage comes in:

During a power outage, a battery backup system allows you to keep essentials running—like refrigerators, lights, sump pumps, and medical equipment.
Batteries also maximize your solar savings by storing excess daytime energy for nighttime use.
With Halco’s expertise, your system is designed for your home’s actual energy profile, meaning smarter use and less waste.

Battery storage can take the place of a backup generator, when sized and installed correctly!

Upgrading Home Efficiency Makes Solar Work Better

Before you cover your roof with panels, it’s critical to address the building envelope—how well your home retains heat in winter and stays cool in summer. The more efficient your home is, the fewer panels and batteries you’ll need, and the longer your battery will last during outages.

Efficiency upgrades like attic and crawl space insulation, air sealing, and HVAC upgrades can cut your energy use by 20–40%, meaning your solar system pays off faster, and your battery backup lasts longer during an outage.

Why Choose Halco for Your Solar and Efficiency Needs?

Unlike typical solar installers and private-equity-owned contractors, Halco Home Solutions delivers something far more comprehensive—a full-spectrum, locally rooted approach to home energy.

As a long-standing, independently owned company serving Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, Phelps, and the Finger Lakes for over three decades, we don’t just bolt panels to your roof and call it a day. Our in-house, professionally trained team takes a whole-home perspective, designing systems that begin with energy efficiency and insulation, then expand to heating, cooling, plumbing, and solar. That means every solar install is right-sized for your home, your climate, and your long-term comfort.

And while many competitors are now part of national chains or private equity firms, Halco remains accountable to the communities we serve. We’re your neighbors, your energy experts, and the ones you can actually reach—24/7, 365 days a year.

Ready to Take Control of Your Energy Costs?

Solar power isn’t just for sunny states—it’s for smart homeowners in Upstate NY who want year-round savings, energy independence, and peace of mind. And with generous incentives and Halco’s turnkey solutions, there’s never been a better time to make the switch and avoid future energy rate hikes.

Schedule your free solar and home efficiency consultation with Halco today. Call 1-833-844-2622 to find out what your home needs—and how much you can save.

Do You Need a Whole Home Water Filter System?

2025-04-25T00:00:00.05Z

If you’re relying on the water filter in your fridge or a small unit under your kitchen sink, you’re only scratching the surface of keeping your home (and your family) healthy.

At Halco Home Solutions, we’ve seen firsthand how Central and Upstate New York homes—from Rochester and Syracuse to Ithaca and Phelps—are impacted by poor water quality, despite being on municipal water.

Whether you’re noticing chlorine odors, rust stains, hard water buildup, water heater sediment, or simply don’t trust what’s coming out of the tap, a whole home water filtration system offers a smarter, safer solution.

What Is a Whole Home Water Filter System?

A whole home (or “point-of-entry”) filtration system treats every drop of water entering your home—not just what you drink, but what you bathe in, clean with, and run through your appliances. That means every faucet, showerhead, washing machine, and dishwasher gets cleaner, filtered water from the start.

The Problem With A La Carte Water Filtration

You wouldn’t install a smoke detector in just one room—so why only filter the water at your kitchen sink?

While fridge and faucet filters are better than nothing, you will still need to use unfiltered water for showers, handwashing, cleaning clothes, and brushing teeth. That’s especially concerning if you’re increasingly wary of government-controlled water quality and the long-term effects of chemicals like chlorine, chloramine, lead, PFAS (so-called “forever chemicals”), and more.

If you live in Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, or Phelps, you’re not alone in questioning the safety of city water. Contaminants can still travel through aging infrastructure, and boil-water advisories and discoloration events are becoming more common.

Problems a Whole Home Water Filter Solves

Cleaner Water at Every Tap
Healthier Skin & Hair
Protect Your Plumbing & Appliances
Better Taste & Smell
Peace of Mind

Advanced Water Filtration Solutions

Halco Home Solutions offers state-of-the-art water filtration systems designed to ensure safe, clean, and clear water throughout your home. We utilize Hydrotech products, known for exceeding industry performance and reliability standards, enhancing both performance and product lifespan.

75GPD H.E.R.O.™ Reverse Osmosis System: This system stands out by recovering over 99.9% of water, virtually eliminating waste. Unlike similar systems that waste 4 to 12 gallons for every gallon of purified water, it delivers water of better-than-bottled quality directly to your ice maker and faucet.
HTO Upflow Series: Featuring a unique two-tank design, this system separates media beds, allowing for enhanced removal of chlorine, chloramines, and organics.
89 Series Water Softener: Designed to combat hard water issues, this system prevents scale buildup in plumbing and appliances, reduces soap scum, and alleviates dry skin and dull laundry.

Comprehensive Home Services

Beyond water conditioning, Halco Home Solutions is a full-service provider offering a wide array of home solutions, including HVAC, plumbing, insulation, renewable energy, and more. Our team of licensed professionals ensures that every aspect of your home's comfort and energy efficiency is addressed.

Why Choose Halco for Your Whole Home Water Filtration?

When it comes to home upgrades that actually protect your health, Halco does it—and we do it all. From plumbing and water conditioning to insulation, HVAC, and renewable energy, we’re the Finger Lakes’ one-stop shop for full-home solutions.

Locally owned & operated — not run by private equity or out-of-town investors
24/7 availability — we answer the phone when others won’t
Decades of expertise in water quality across Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca & beyond
Custom system design based on your home’s needs and water tests
Real Halco employees—not subcontractors, not call centers

Whether you need water conditioning, filtration, or full repiping, our licensed plumbers and healthy home experts are ready to help.

Call Halco Home Solutions at 1-833-844-2622 to learn more about water filtration options tailored to your home.

The Value of a Locally Owned and Run Business

2025-04-11T00:00:00.05Z

Across the Finger Lakes, many home service companies—and other small businesses—are quietly being acquired by private equity firms. While these takeovers may appear to be smart business moves, they often come at the expense of the customer. When local ownership disappears, so does the company’s personal touch, community focus, and dedication to service. In our experience, private equity–owned companies tend to prioritize profit over people. As a result, any gray area in a warranty or service agreement often works in their favor—not yours.

That’s one of the key reasons Halco Home Solutions stands apart. We’re proud to be locally owned and operated by our founder, Hal Smith. Unlike many of our competitors, Halco remains independent and deeply rooted in the community—committed to delivering the highest level of service, even when the answer isn’t black and white.

From emergency HVAC repairs to complete home retrofits, a real Halco employee always answers the phone. Wanna get emergency service 24/7/365? Become a maintenance plan member!

Supporting Our Local Communities

We believe in supporting local businesses, creating job opportunities, and reinvesting in the areas we serve. One of the biggest advantages of working with a locally owned business like Halco is knowing that your money stays in the community. We employ local professionals, providing stable, well-paying jobs to your neighbors, friends, and family members. Our technicians, customer service representatives, and energy efficiency experts live and work right here in the Finger Lakes region.

Unmatched Local Expertise

Where you live impacts your home’s overall performance. That’s why local expertise matters when it comes to home services. Halco has been serving homeowners across the Finger Lakes and Central New York for decades, and we understand the unique challenges that come with different types of homes, including:

Older Homes & Retrofits: Many homes in our area were built long before modern energy efficiency standards. We specialize in retrofitting these homes with insulation, air sealing, and heat pump technology to improve comfort and efficiency.

Because we know the region, we can tailor solutions to your specific home and climate challenges—whether that’s dealing with heavy snow, extreme cold, or summer humidity. National chains simply don’t have the same level of local knowledge to provide the right solutions for our unique climate and housing stock.

Talk to a local expert at Halco- we have service plans that assure you service 24/7/365

Why Halco Offers Service Plans—And Why They Matter Most When You Need Us Most

At Halco Home Solutions, we know from experience: when the temperatures hit extremes—whether it's a deep freeze or a brutal heatwave—everyone needs help at the same time. And the truth is, even with our dedicated team, there simply aren’t enough technicians to respond to every emergency immediately when demand is at its peak.

That’s exactly why we offer service plans.

Our service plans give you priority access year-round and allow us to perform preventative maintenance during the slower seasons—like when it’s 70 degrees and our calendar has more openings. By checking and tuning up your systems during those low-demand times, we help prevent breakdowns when you need your systems most.

Need an emergency plumbing repair at midnight? We’ll answer.
Heating system failure during a snowstorm? We’ll answer.
AC not working during a heatwave? We’ll answer.

When you’re a service plan member, you can rest easy knowing you’ll have real, local support—24/7/365. When you call Halco, you’re not reaching a call center or a robot. You’re talking to someone who lives here. Someone who shops at the same Wegmans you do. Someone who cheers for the same high school team. Someone who understands what it's like when your heat goes out in the middle of a February night.

Halco service plans aren’t just about convenience—they’re about preparation, prevention, and peace of mind.

At Halco, Yes, We Do That!

Halco is more than just an HVAC company. We provide comprehensive home services, making us your one-stop shop for everything your home needs. We do it all, including:

HVAC

Boilers
Furnaces
Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP or Geothermal)
Central Air Conditioning
Ventilation
Sheet Metal Fabrication
Maintenance Agreements

Plumbing

Water Heaters
Well Pumps
Sewer & Drain Cleaning & Jetting
Faucets & Fixtures
Bathroom Remodeling
Water Conditioning
Water & Sewer Services
Repiping water, sewer, gas
Maintenance Agreements

Electrical

New electric services
Panel upgrades
Rewiring, repairs
Lighting
Standby generators
Smart panels
Pool and Spa wiring and grounding
Maintenance agreements

Carpentry

Windows
Doors
Remodeling
Trim
Drywall repairs
Additions
Gutters and gutter guards

Masonry

Block
Brick
Concrete slabs
Stamped concrete
Footers

All things Basementy

Basement waterproofing
Basement finishing
Foundation support
Basement & crawl space encapsulation
Gutters and gutter guards
Sump pumps
Dehumidification
Egress windows/window well

Excavation

Land clearing
Rockhounding
Dig foundations, pools
Sewer and water line services
Geothermal
Dump truck services
Topsoil, gravel
Hydroseeding

Insulation

Spray foam
Cellulose
Air sealing
Weatherstripping
Removal of contaminated/soiled insulation

Renewable Energy

Solar - Roof, ground, pole mount
Wind
Battery storage
EV Chargers

Home Energy Assessment

Blower door & leakage test
Thermal imaging test
Manual J heat loss/heat gain calculations
Manual D duct designs
Manual S equipment design
Air change calculations
Ventilation calculation

Healthy Homes

Water conditioning
Duct Cleaning
Air cleaners
Humidifiers
Dehumidifiers
Energy recovery ventilators
Heat recovery ventilators
Radon testing & mitigation
IAQ testing
Asbestos and mold referrals to environmental experts

Standby Generators/ Emergency Backup Power

Emergency power
Battery storage
Maintenance agreements

Choose a Company That Puts Customers and Community First

When you choose Halco Home Solutions, you’re choosing more than just a home service provider—you’re choosing a company that genuinely cares about your home, your comfort, and your community. With our local ownership, deep regional expertise, and commitment to customer service, we stand apart from the big, corporate-owned competitors.

So, the next time you need HVAC service, insulation, plumbing, or any home solution, call the company that always answers the phone and always puts the community first. Call Halco today and experience the difference a truly local, independent business can make!

Adam's Armor Foundation and Halco Home Solutions Deliver Warmth to a Community Member in Need

2025-03-04T13:34:23.05Z

This year, the Adam’s Armor Foundation, in partnership with Halco Home Solutions, proudly provided a brand-new furnace installation to Penny Haremza, the widow of longtime Halco service technician Jim Haremza. Each year, the foundation covers the cost of materials while Halco donates the installation, ensuring that a family in need receives the gift of warmth.

When Penny initially contacted Halco for a service visit, she explained that she couldn’t afford the service call upfront and asked if she could be billed over time. Understanding her situation, Halco agreed to send a technician at no cost to assess the issue. Unfortunately, upon inspection, the technician discovered that Penny’s furnace was unsafe and beyond repair with a cracked heat exchanger. With freezing winter temperatures, her situation was urgent.

“When we received Penny’s call, we knew we had to act fast,” said Hal Smith, founder and CEO of Halco. “Jim was an incredible technician, known by many as ‘The Brain Surgeon’ for his exceptional skills. It was only right that we help his family in their time of need.”

Halco’s skilled installation team promptly arrived at Penny’s home, efficiently removing the old, hazardous furnace and replacing it with a new, reliable unit. The team worked diligently to complete the installation in a single day, ensuring Penny’s home was warm and comfortable once again.

Penny was deeply moved and grateful to the Adam’s Armor Foundation and the Halco team. “Jimmy’s birthday was yesterday, so I feel like he had a hand in this,” she shared. “I know it sounds silly, but miracles happen, and this is a big one. I was freezing for a day and a half, and I am just so grateful for them.”

She extended heartfelt thanks to Adam’s family and Hal, saying, “They don’t know how much this helped. I just want them to know how truly and deeply I appreciate this. If Jimmy were alive, I just know he would be overwhelmed with gratitude.”

The connection between Jim Haremza and Adam Scott, both highly skilled and respected craftsmen, makes this year’s furnace donation even more meaningful. Their legacy lives on, not only through their work but through the people they’ve inspired. The Adam Scott Memorial Scholarship and the Adam’s Armor Foundation continue to support and uplift those in the trades, reinforcing the spirit of giving and craftsmanship that defined both men.

Irene, Adam’s mother, reflected on the moment, saying, "In my heart, I know Adam and Jim's spirits are looking down from Heaven, and proudly shaking hands on a job well done."

About The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc.: The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc. was established in honor of the late Adam Scott, a remarkable individual known for his humility, honesty, and philanthropic spirit. This foundation pays tribute to Adam's unwavering commitment to his work, family, and his community, ensuring his legacy lives on through acts of kindness and support for families in need.

About Halco Home Solutions: Since 1984, Halco's purpose has been to build customers for life by providing extraordinary service, value, and a comprehensive range of energy solutions. Their mission is to empower individuals, businesses, and communities to embrace sustainable energy sources and to deliver the best products and services in the industry. They offer plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electric, insulation, renewable energy, basement waterproofing, healthy home comfort, and more!

Geneva Historical Society: Prouty-Chew House

2024-11-20T12:35:01.05Z

Geneva Historical Society’s

Prouty-Chew House

Halco Commercial Case Study

Solution:

Halco designed a clean heat approach (utilizing cold climate air source heat pumps [ccASHP’s) that would allow GHS to take advantage of New York State Clean Heat incentives as well as carefully installing these systems in a fashion that would not disrupt the historical integrity of the site. This allowed this historic site to electrify their building, gain control over their sensitive archival spaces by using forced air systems, with the addition of humidifiers and dehumidifiers. They also avoided the high energy costs of operating on an old fossil fuel system. This case study shows that with careful planning and design, we can implement electrification efforts in historic sites and still preserve the historical integrity of the buildings. Halco also improved the plumbing facilities to meet the accessibility challenges the space had; This project included all necessary rough-in sanitary waste and venting — along with cold and hot water piping — to upgrade the existing men’s and women’s bathrooms. To enhance ADA accessibility, one fixture was removed from each bathroom and the remaining were replaced with new, modern alternatives. This involved the installation of two new water closets and two new lavatories, with all necessary plumbing modifications to accommodate the changes.

Conclusion:

This energy efficiency and HVAC modernization project at the Prouty-Chew House demonstrates a thoughtful approach to enhancing comfort and environmental control in a historically significant building. By integrating high-efficiency heat pump systems and carefully designed ductwork, the project successfully upgraded the climate control capabilities in key areas while preserving the integrity of the building’s historical features. Additionally, the modernization of the plumbing systems ensures that the building meets contemporary accessibility standards, contributing to the long-term sustainability and functionality of the cherished historical site.

Halco Wins 2024 NY-GEO Top Job Award for Groundbreaking Retrofit Project at CEO Hal Smith's Historic Residence

2024-11-18T10:53:34.05Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Halco Wins 2024 NY-GEO Top Job Award for Groundbreaking Retrofit Project at CEO Hal Smith’s Historic Residence

Halco is thrilled to announce that it has been honored with the 2024 NY-GEO Top Job Award for its ambitious and visionary geothermal retrofit project at the residence of Halco’s CEO, Hal Smith. This marks the second time Halco has received this prestigious award, following their 2019 recognition for a geothermal project in a
historic Fayetteville, NY home.

The award-winning project represents a significant leap forward in making geothermal technology accessible for retrofits, which are expected to play a central role in the future of sustainable energy. As the demand for energy-efficient solutions grows, retrofitting existing homes is essential, and Halco’s project at Smith’s property exemplifies the complex challenges and innovative solutions required to meet this need.

Unlike new construction, retrofitting a historic home to align with modern energy efficiency standards demands adherence to strict architectural and historical guidelines.

For this project, Halco executed a full-scale energy makeover that preserved the building's historic integrity while incorporating cutting-edge geothermal technology. Once complete, the property will serve as a bed and breakfast, necessitating individualized heating and cooling capabilities for each room.

Key elements of the retrofit included:

Horizontal Ground Loop System: Despite tight village constraints, Halco implemented an efficient horizontal ground loop to reduce visual and environmental impact.
20-ton 3-Phase Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System with Heat Recovery: This innovative system provides the necessary flexibility for individual climate control across the main house and the newly converted carriage house apartment.
30 Ductless Heads and Hydro Kit for Domestic Hot Water: To meet the unique heating and cooling needs of the property, Halco installed a state-of-the-art VRF system alongside a hydro kit to ensure sustainable hot water production.

In line with Halco’s guiding principle of "Reduce Before You Produce" the project team began by tightening the building’s envelope. This preliminary work included vacuuming out loose fiberglass insulation and spray-foaming roof decks and gables to a 4-inch thickness with thermal barriers. With three separate attic spaces, including one shared with the carriage house apartment, the entire property was meticulously insulated and sealed to enhance thermal efficiency.

“Winning the NY-GEO Top Job Award for the second time underscores Halco’s commitment to innovation in home electrification and energy efficiency” said Hal Smith, CEO and Owner of Halco. “This project is personal. By choosing to make my own home a model for sustainable retrofitting, I hope to inspire others to embrace the whole-house approach for energy efficiency and electrification.”

As a pioneer in geothermal energy and whole-house efficiency, Halco’s success in the 2024 NY-GEO Top Job Award highlights the company’s relentless dedication to setting new standards for home performance. Whether it’s a historic mansion, a modern apartment, or a modest family home, Halco works diligently to create efficient, electrified spaces designed for the future.

Halco would like to thank NY-GEO for this recognition and extend its gratitude to the entire project team for their dedication and expertise. Halco is committed to continuing its role as an industry leader, delivering life-long energy solutions to each and every customer.

About Halco
Founded in 1984 by Hal Smith, Halco is a leader in home performance, energy efficiency, and electrification, with locations across Upstate New York. Halco’s team of experts and skilled technicians offer comprehensive services ranging from HVAC, plumbing, and electrical to cutting-edge renewable energy solutions, providing lifelong support to customers. Halco is proud to be one of the few companies in New York State fully equipped to handle the entire home electrification process.

6 Graduates of Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center Signing Day

2024-06-07T13:19:10.05Z

Halco is pleased to announce that we employed 6 graduates of the Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center, who will begin their career with us at Halco on July 8th, 2024.

The 2024 Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training Center Signing Day event was held on June 5, 2024, at the Newark, NY location. The 6 graduates we hired are as follows: Zachary Stone, Steven Large, Ryan Sicienski, Ryan VanWyk, Tyler Sloan, and Hudson Trail. At this event, they all signed their letter of intent to join the Halco team. These students interned with Halco three days a week for the last quarter of the school year, where they learned to hone and prove the skills they acquired through their two years of technical training through Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center.

The Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center program provides high school juniors and seniors, from all throughout Upstate New York, with the opportunity to build skills in HVAC, Electrical, Mechanical, and other trades. This year alone they achieved the placement of 61 local seniors with local companies.

Following the event Hal Smith, CEO of Halco, had this to say:

“Today’s signing day celebration for the seniors of the Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center program is monumental!! These 6 seniors, who have chosen to enter directly into the skill trades — as well as enter a 5-year apprenticeship, have made a very wise choice for their career path!! Their commitment deserves to be celebrated!!! HALCO is very excited to employ these 6 young men!!”

Lisa Meade, Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, said this about the event:

“Our CTE Signing event was designed to commemorate our students' decisions to take the next step in their career paths in Manufacturing, Auto Tech, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Electrical Trades, Health Professions, Heavy Equipment and more!

The event included several representatives from area organizations who will have the pleasure of employing these students in their respective workplaces and seeing first-hand the skills these students have acquired during their time in a CTE program. We are so very thankful for our industry partners, the work of our CTE Principals – Mr. McVey and Mrs. Brown, the outstanding faculty and staff at both of our Career and Tech sites.

We would also like to express our gratitude to Halco for helping provide so many opportunities for our students. Thank you for being a valued partner.”

Halco is more than eager for these graduates to join our team, as we believe that the trades provide an ideal alternative to traditional higher education. Their employment, along with enrollment in a 5-year New York State apprenticeship program, will provide these young men with a tradesmen card (which is the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree) and will allow them to find employment throughout all 50 U.S states. By embracing a younger staff, Halco is committed to building up the next generation of HVAC professionals so that the industry, as a whole, will continue to thrive for years to come.

Halco was founded in 1984 by 22-year-old CEO Hal Smith from Phelps, NY; It has gone from a one-man operation to a revolutionary industry leader employing over 200 people, with four locations in Upstate New York. Halco has been recognized by ACCA, NYSERDA and the Better Business Bureau as an industry leader in clean energy technology. We boast a 4.9 rating on Google with over 10,000 reviews. Halco continues to innovate in an effort to drive the industry forward.

Please click the link below for pictures of the event.

Halco Photo Album - Wayne-Finger Lakes Technical Training and Career Center Signing Day 2024 (halcoenergy.com)

Contact Adam Hobbs for any interview requests.

adam@halcoenergy.com

585-445-4345

The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc.: Honoring the Legacy of Adam Scott through Generosity and Compassion

2024-05-03T13:19:03.05Z

The Adam's Armor Foundation is pleased to announce a significant step forward in its mission to provide support and comfort to families in need. The foundation has proudly selected a deserving family to receive a new HVAC system installation, furthering its commitment to honoring the legacy of Adam Scott by spreading warmth and compassion within the community.

This year's recipient, Crystal Howard, is a Dryden, NY resident who discovered Halco through the Sustainable Finger Lakes Pilot program. Faced with a non-functional natural gas furnace, Crystal had been relying on space heaters for years, causing concern for her children's safety and leading to substantial energy bills. Additionally, she depended on window AC units for cooling.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Adam's Armor Foundation, the EmPower+ program, and Halco's dedicated team, a comprehensive transformation took place. Halco coordinated the entire project and covered the labor while their team executed various upgrades in Crystal's home. This included air sealing and insulation, installation of energy-efficient LEDs across the house, weatherstripping on doors, fitting a blow-off tube on the water heater, and the installation of a high-efficiency furnace and central air system, ensuring a complete overhaul for the customer's comfort and safety.

Crystal expressed her gratitude, stating, "The Adam's Armor Foundation has been a wonderful opportunity for myself and my family. Being able to have a reliable heat source throughout the winter and cooling in the summer is such an amazing feeling. We were using electric heaters and space heaters for the last 3 years to heat our house, and that left me worrying about possible fires all the time, and a huge electric bill.”

The Foundation's unwavering dedication to aiding families facing hardships resonates deeply with its values. The selection of Crystal’s family reflects the Foundation's ongoing commitment to making a positive impact, embodying the core principles of The Adam's Armor Foundation, and honoring the spirit of Adam Scott.

The foundation's inaugural fundraising initiative, a charity golf tournament, has garnered tremendous support from the community and Halco, a renowned leader in home energy solutions since 1984. All proceeds from this event, in conjunction with Halco's generous contributions, will be channeled directly into The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc., empowering the organization to fulfill its vital mission.

"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide a new HVAC system to a family in need, ensuring their comfort and well-being," said Cade Scott, spokesperson for the foundation. "This selection not only exemplifies our commitment to serving the community but also stands as a testament to the enduring values that defined Adam’s life."

Halco's commitment to the foundation extends beyond financial contributions, as the company also provided time and labor for the project. With a history rooted in delivering exceptional service and value, Halco's participation exemplifies their dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

"We are honored to collaborate with The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc.," said Hal Smith, CEO of Halco. "Our core mission is to empower individuals and communities with efficient energy solutions, and this partnership allows us to extend that mission to those facing challenges in their lives."

The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc. envisions the charity tournament becoming an annual tradition, enabling sustained assistance to families and communities in need. By uniting the principles that shaped Adam’s life and Halco's commitment to service, this foundation will continue to pave the way for a brighter future.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this cause and helped us honor Adam's memory in such a meaningful way," concluded Cade Scott. "He would have been deeply touched by the outpouring of support, and we are dedicated to ensuring that his legacy lives on through the positive impact we make together."

Crystal concluded, “Without this Foundation being able to afford a unit like this would be near impossible for us. So, as a family we would sincerely like to thank The Adam's Foundation for this amazing blessing!”

About The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc.: The Adam's Armor Foundation Inc. was established in honor of the late Adam Scott, a remarkable individual known for his humility, honesty, and philanthropic spirit. This foundation pays tribute to Adam's unwavering commitment to both his work, family, and his community, ensuring his legacy lives on through acts of kindness and support for families in need.

About Halco: Since 1984, Halco's purpose has been to build customers for life by providing extraordinary service, value, and a comprehensive range of energy solutions. Their mission is to empower individuals, businesses, and communities to embrace sustainable energy sources, and to deliver the best products and services in the industry. They offer plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electric, insulation, renewable energy, basement waterproofing, healthy home comfort, and more!

Halco Announces Adam B. Scott Memorial Scholarship to Honor Legacy of HVAC Technician

2023-03-23T14:24:51.05Z

Halco, a leading provider of HVAC services in New York, is proud to announce the establishment of the Adam B. Scott Memorial Scholarship in conjunction with Adam's parents, Steve and Irene, and family. The scholarship commemorates the life and work of Adam Scott, a beloved HVAC technician who passed away in 2022. The scholarship will support young men and women pursuing careers in the trades, providing resources to aid entry-level technicians in their professional development.

Adam Scott was an HVAC technician for more than 25 years, working his way up from an entry-level position to become a master technician. His commitment to excellence, customer-focused approach, and natural problem-solving skills earned him high regard among his clients and peers in the industry.

The Adam B. Scott Memorial Scholarship will recognize Halco employees who exemplify the same qualities as Adam, with a passion for the trades and strong leadership potential. The scholarship award of $1,000 will be administered by Halco and awarded on an annual basis.

"Adam was a remarkable technician and a valued member of our team," said Hal Smith, CEO of Halco. "We are honored to establish this scholarship to recognize his legacy and support the next generation of tradespeople."

About Halco- Halco is a leading provider of HVAC, plumbing, and energy services in New York. Founded in 1984, Halco has earned a reputation for excellence in customer service, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability. The company serves residential and commercial customers throughout the region. For more information, please visit www.halcoenergy.com.

Senator May, Mayor Olson and Industry Officials to be part of May 23rd 'Top Job' Award Presentation to Local Business

2019-06-26T09:01:02.05Z

Fayetteville, NY – On Thursday, May 23^rd at Noon, Halco, a Central NY area HVAC contractor, will be presented with the prestigious GeoStar Top Job award. Halco, along with building owner William Sunderlin, won this award in April at the Annual NY-GEO conference for converting the historic Noble House to a geothermal system, eliminating the need to burn fossils for heating. State Senator Rachel May and Fayetteville Mark Olson will be part of the ceremony presenting the award. The ceremony will be followed by a tour of the geothermal system

On the 23^rd, Sunderlin will open his house to the press, elected officials and the community for the award ceremony. Halco will provide refreshments and snacks. Those interested in attending this free event are asked to register in advance at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ny-geo-top-job-award-ceremony-tickets-61257133736.

Halco, with offices in Liverpool, Phelps, Rochester, and Ithaca, NY, was among five companies who were chosen to present their noteworthy geothermal (ground source heat pump) projects as finalists in the 2019 GeoStar Top Job Competition.

Halco’s winning job, ‘The Noble House,’ converted a historic home right in the heart of Fayetteville, NY from natural gas to geothermal heating and cooling, eliminating fossil fuel use in the home. The home was built in the early 1800’s and was home to the prominent abolitionist and publisher of Uncle Tom's Cabin, Linnaeus P. Noble.

“The objective of the GeoStar Top Job Competition is to highlight and recognize the incredible talent, care, creativity and imagination that geothermal system designers and installers, bring to their projects” explained Bill Nowak, Executive Director of NY-GEO. “The Noble House is an excellent example of the ability to install geothermal systems even on small lots and in historic homes. The Top Job competition was open to installers throughout the US Northeast and Halco won in the face of some very strong projects.”

A detailed description of the Noble House project can be found here on the NY-GEO website: https://ny-geo.org/pages/the-noble-house. It includes pictures and a short interview with Mr. Sunderlin.

In addition to the May 23^rd Award Ceremony, the Noble House will also open its doors for a tour of its energy efficient renovation in June as part of ArtRage Gallery’s annual “Pedal Power” bike tour fundraiser on June 15. Bicyclists will begin at ArtRage in Syracuse and bike along the path of the old Erie Canal, touring the Noble House before returning to ArtRage for a luncheon. To register visit http://artragegallery.org/artrage-bike-ride-fundraiser/

About Halco

Halco is a highly accredited, national award-winning contractor that has been providing high quality solutions to residential and commercial clients since 1984. They have divisions that offer high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, plumbing and electrical solutions, home energy assessments, insulation and air-sealing, clean renewable energy systems and so much more. They are dedicated to quality work, sustainability, innovation, and to providing extraordinary service to their customers. www.halcoenergy.com

About NY-GEO

New York Geothermal Energy Organization (NY-GEO) is a not-for-profit trade association representing the geothermal heat pump (GHP) industry in New York State, dedicated to promoting geothermal heating and cooling. Our 90 members include geothermal system designers, installers, drillers, general contractors, engineers, manufacturers, distributors, renewable energy consultants and industry stakeholders who are interested in promoting the use of ground-source heat pumps to heat and cool buildings throughout New York State. www.ny-geo.org

About HeatSmart CNY

HeatSmart CNY is a community campaign facilitated by the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board and the Alliance for a Green Economy to help people more efficiently heat and cool their homes through air sealing, insulation, and heat pump installation. Together, we are building our local economy, reducing our environmental impact, and making homes healthier and more comfortable. For more information visit www.HeatSmartCNY.org

About GeoStar

There's an abundance of energy stored just below the surface of the earth that many homeowners today are taking advantage of – geothermal heating, cooling, and hot water. GeoStar offers a wide variety of residential geothermal products – all of which are factory-tested to ensure that you, the consumer, are getting the highest quality and efficiency possible. http://www.geostar-geo.com/

Halco Wins NY-GEO 'Top Job' Award for Converting a Historic Home in Fayetteville, NY to Heating and Cooling without Fossil Fuels

2019-05-10T10:39:26.05Z

A historic Fayetteville home and a local HVAC contractor are the winners of the 2019 GeoStar Top Job Competition for a geothermal installation. Halco, an HVAC contractor with offices in Liverpool, Phelps, Rochester, and Ithaca, NY won the prestigious award at the annual NY-GEO conference held in Schenectady, NY in April. Halco was among five companies who were chosen to present their noteworthy geothermal (ground source heat pump) projects as finalists in the 2019 GeoStar Top Job Competition.

The award will be presented to Halco and the Noble House owner William Sunderlin in a ceremony at noon on Thursday, May 23 rd at the Noble House. Elected officials, the public and the press are invited to the ceremony at 305 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville, NY. Light refreshments and snacks will be served and those interested in attending this free event are asked to register in advance at https://topjob.eventbrite.com.

“The objective of the GeoStar Top Job Competition is to highlight and recognize the incredible talent, care, creativity and imagination that geothermal system designers and installers, bring to their projects” explained Bill Nowak, Executive Director of NY-GEO. “The competition also communicates to those outside the industry the variety of ways that geothermal heat pump technology can be applied. The Noble House is an excellent example of the ability to install geothermal systems even on small lots and in historic homes.”

A detailed description of the Noble House project can be found here on the NY-GEO website: https://ny-geo.org/pages/the-noble-house. It includes pictures and a short interview with owner William Sunderlin. Following strict historic preservation guidelines including preservation of floor-to-ceiling historic windows, this was a large scale retrofit project with many upgrades made, including major shell work.

“Halco fully believes in the concept of ‘Reduce before you produce,’” explained Halco owner Hal Smith. “Tightening up the home by improving the insulation and reducing drafts was an important first step.”

Once all prep work was completed, the geothermal system was properly sized and designed to fit the heat demand of the home. Halco installed a 12-ton system, drilling (3) bore holes to a depth of 420 ft with 1.5” loops tied into 4 separate heat pumps;

one heat pump for the hot water,
one to heat and cool the second floor of the home,
one for the main living space, and
a fourth to heat and cool the adjoining apartment.

All heat pumps are tied into GeoStar remotely programmable thermostats, which allow comfort control, humidity control and access to energy use data for the homeowner.

Recognizing the GeoStar Top Job honor, homeowner William Sunderlin states, “Within Halco, the person who deserves special recognition is Shawn Hodge, their lead geothermal installer. Faced with the challenge of installing 21st century technology in a 19th century house, Shawn mobilized his ample creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge to surmount every challenge - there were many! - that got in his way.”

Prior to install, Mr. Sunderlin was a natural gas customer. As a climate scientist, he had been considering going green for 20 years and is keenly aware of the importance of getting off fossil fuels. Today, William is a member of the steering committee for HeatSmart CNY, a community- based campaign helping building owners connect with assessments, incentives, and technologies to make homes and businesses more comfortable, cost-effective, and better for the environment. Mr. Sunderlin has opened his home to the public as part of HeatSmart CNY home tours, and passionately encourages others to consider clean energy.

Most recently, “The Noble House” received a Pearl Platinum Certification. Pearl Certification is a national firm that provides third-party certification of high-performing homes: homes with “performance assets” that make them healthy, safe, comfortable, energy and water efficient. These certifications help convey the hidden value of a home to potential buyers in the future. Pearl looks at each asset category (Heating and Cooling, Baseload, Building Shell, Home Management) and Platinum scores well in all four categories. William’s home is 1 of 2 platinum scoring homes in New York State, the other is also a Halco customer.

In addition to the May 23 rd Award Ceremony, the Noble House will also open its doors for a tour of its energy efficient renovation in June as part of ArtRage Gallery’s annual “Pedal Power” bike tour fundraiser on June 15. Bicyclists will begin at ArtRage in Syracuse and bike along the path of the old Erie Canal, touring the Noble House before returning to ArtRage for a luncheon. To register visit http://artragegallery.org/artrage-bike-ride-fundraiser/

###

About Halco
Halco is a highly accredited, national award-winning contractor that has been providing high quality solutions to residential and commercial clients since 1984. They have divisions that offer high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, plumbing and electrical solutions, home energy assessments, insulation and air-sealing, clean renewable energy systems and so much more. They are dedicated to quality work, sustainability, innovation, and to providing extraordinary service to their customers. www.halcoenergy.com

About NY-GEO
New York Geothermal Energy Organization (NY-GEO) is a not-for-profit trade association representing the geothermal heat pump (GHP) industry in New York State, dedicated to promoting geothermal heating and cooling. Our 90 members include geothermal system designers, installers, drillers, general contractors, engineers, manufacturers, distributors, renewable energy consultants and industry stakeholders who are interested in promoting the use of ground-source heat pumps to heat and cool buildings throughout New York State. www.ny-geo.org

About HeatSmart CNY
HeatSmart CNY is a community campaign facilitated by the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board and Alliance for a Green Economy to help people more efficiently heat and cool their homes through air sealing, insulation, and heat pump installation. Together, we are building our local economy, reducing our environmental impact, and making homes healthier and more comfortable. For more information visit www.HeatSmartCNY.org

Home Outfitted with Solar and a Standby Generator in Ithaca, NY

2019-02-28T09:53:45.05Z

Once the system was designed and permits were obtained, crews showed up to execute the installation. Due to unforeseen circumstances, including uncooperative clay soil and poor weather conditions, the system took longer to install than anticipated. Nevertheless, Jeff was pleased with Halco throughout the entire process and stated that he was also impressed with the crew’s meticulousness while installing the array.

A year or so later, crews returned to add additional panels to the ground mount and to install more advanced style solar panels on his garage roof. The existing ground solar panels were dismantled, new longer rails were installed, and the new panels were integrated with the old in a design of the customer’s choice. At the same time, we integrated a Generac whole-home standby generator to keep the customer up and running, should the grid go down. Jeff has had two power interruptions since the Generac was installed and was able to maintain power each time. He feels the backup generator has already proven its worth and provides him with peace of mind.

Jeff also has peace of mind knowing he can call on Halco to serve a variety of needs. He stated, “I am amazed at the multitude of tasks Halco crews can perform with efficiency and expertise. If there is something I need done around any of my properties in the future, Halco will get the first call.”

When asked to rate Halco on a scale of 1-10, Jeff stated, “10. I am particularly impressed with the planning that was done for each project. Both the work to be done and the timelines were clearly laid out in advance. Accurate price estimates were prepared, and any unforeseen difficulties were dealt with thoughtfully in consultation with me. All the necessary permits were obtained by Halco. Interactions with NYSEG, NYSERDA and Village of Lansing personnel were sometimes challenging -- but not for me! Halco took care of all of that.”

He went on to share, “Sales staff familiarity with available technology and installation procedures greatly facilitate Halco customer relations. Patient dialog opened by Halco sales staff paves the way for Halco planners to successfully communicate with homeowners who know little of the pros and cons of various projects. This emphasis on planning carries over into other Halco divisions. My experience has been that Halco staff make accurate estimates which avoid unpleasant financial and scheduling surprises during the course of Halco projects. Halco so far has an excellent record of turning my goals into achievements!”

"HEATSMART CNY" MAKES IT EASIER AND MORE AFFORDABLE TO INSTALL MODERN, CLEAN HEATING AND COOLING SOLUTIONS

2018-11-21T09:39:53.05Z

SYRACUSE, NY – Nov. 13, 2018—Expensive annual heating and cooling bills may be a thing of the past for many homes and buildings in the Central New York region with the new HeatSmart CNY campaign. Organized by the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board (CNY RPDB), Alliance for a Green Economy (AGREE), with support from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and a team of volunteers, this two-year community-based campaign for Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, and Oswego counties aims to help home and building owners install ground source (“geothermal”) and air source heat pumps designed for cold climates, as well as heat pump water heaters. Central New York was also awarded an additional $350,000 in funding for related workforce development and low-to-moderate income household projects.

The City of Syracuse publicly announced its support for HeatSmart CNY today, after the Common Council unanimously passed a memorializing resolution on Wednesday, November 7th.

“The city of Syracuse is excited that NYSERDA chose Central New York as the pilot for this $500,000 campaign, which will make efficient heat pumps accessible to low and moderate income households and promote jobs in this growing industry,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “This will help residents more efficiently warm their homes and add to the growing list of efficient geothermal buildings in Syracuse, like the Hotel Skyler, Jefferson Clinton Commons, and the Pike Block.”

HeatSmart CNY builds on local Solarize campaigns and the HeatSmart Tompkins strategy to make the process of switching heat sources relatively easy. The campaign will offer free public workshops and open house visits to help people understand the technologies available, the importance of air sealing and insulation, and the rebates and incentives currently available from New York State, the Federal government, and utility companies.

Three installer teams --Halco, Snug Planet, and Geotherm / ACES-Energy—were selected by the HeatSmart CNY Steering Committee after a careful evaluation process. They collectively bring over 35 years of heat pump installation experience to the program. Participants will be able to receive free site assessments from multiple companies and compare quotes. HeatSmart CNY is partnering with experts John Manning and Dick Kornbluth to provide a hotline for home and building owners to help answer any questions.

“Many people don’t realize that even in Upstate New York, we have plenty of heat in the ground and in the air to make cold-climate heat pumps an efficient and economical energy choice,” said Yusuf Abdul-Qadir, a Syracuse resident who is installing ground source heat pump and air source heat pump systems in his home and rental property. “And in the summer months, heat pumps run in reverse to cool and dehumidify our buildings. Heat pumps make our homes more comfortable and safer for our families.”

Efficient electric heat pumps also have the added benefit of being good for the environment. Over 1/3 of New York’s energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions come from heating and cooling buildings, mostly with fossil fuels. Many homeowners across Upstate New York have made their homes effectively “net zero” energy by installing combinations of heat pumps and solar panels. Even when powered by the grid, 49 percent of the electricity produced in Upstate New York came from renewables in 2017 (Source: NYISO 2018 Power Trends Report).

“With the HeatSmart CNY program, the region can make a decisive move toward a sustainable future,” said Lindsay Speer, HeatSmart CNY Program Manager. “If you’ve ever wanted to stop burning fossil fuels as your heat source, this is the opportunity to do it!”

Typical homes using expensive oil or propane heat save $1500-1800/year in fuel costs when they switch to heat pumps. Homes using inefficient baseboard electric and those still using coal are also excellent candidates for switching. Interested property owners can attend any of the free
community workshops to enroll in the program or can enroll on-line at HeatSmartCNY.org.

Attending a workshop is not a requirement for participation in HeatSmart CNY, but is strongly encouraged. The kickoff workshop will be held at the South Side Innovation Center located at 2610 South Salina Street, Syracuse on Thursday, November 15 from 6:00 – 7:30pm. The first Open House will be held from 2 - 4:30 PM on Nov. 18 at William Sunderlin’s geothermally heated home at 305 East Genesee Street in Fayetteville (please park on nearby streets). Other workshops and open houses will be held in venues in various neighborhoods and towns within the geographic boundaries of the program and announced in the future.

Individuals and organizations volunteering their time to guide the campaign include Brendon Fox of Home HeadQuarters; Hanna Ring of Citizens Campaign for the Environment; Pompey resident John Shaheen; Marian Brown, Director of the Center for Sustainability and the Environment at Wells College; Sarah Krisch, Senior Planner for Madison County; Sha’Sha Wheat of Hope 4 Us Housing; Sally Ward of P.E.A.C.E. Inc., geothermal homeowner William Sunderlin; and Syracuse resident and sustainability strategist Yusuf Abdul-Qadir, who is currently installing a geothermal system in his home.

For more information, or to sign up for a workshop, go to HeatSmartCNY.org, email info@HeatSmartCNY.org, or contact Lindsay Speer 315-383-7210.

SYRACUSE WELCOMES LAUNCH OF HEATSMART CNY

2018-11-12T14:24:37.05Z

Who:

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh,
Joseph Driscoll, Syracuse Common Council, 5th District,
Chris Carrick, Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board,
Lindsay Speer, Campaign Manager, HeatSmart CNY,
Yusuf Abdul-Qadir, Syracuse resident installing a geothermal system, and
Installer partners to be introduced!

What: Press Conference to launch HeatSmart CNY campaign, including announcing installer partners and a statement of support from the City of Syracuse.

When: Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at 2:30 PM

Where: Steps of City Hall, 233 E. Washington Street, Syracuse NY

Why: Building on the success of local Solarize campaigns, Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board and Alliance for a Green Economy are now kicking off a two-year campaign to modernize heating and cooling systems for residential, commercial, and community buildings by installing air source and ground source (“geothermal”) heat pumps designed for cold climates, as well as heat pump water heaters. Significant incentives are currently available from the federal government and New York State, as well as local utilities. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is supporting eight similar community outreach campaigns across New York State. HeatSmart CNY is one of two to receive additional funding for workforce development and the only campaign to secure funding to help low-to-moderate income households, bringing a total of $500,000 into the local economy. The HeatSmart CNY kickoff workshop will be 6 PM Thursday Nov. 15th at the South Side Innovation Center, 2610 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY. For more information visit HeatSmartCNY.org

Contact: Lindsay Speer 315-383-7210, Chris Carrick 315-422-8276 x 1213, HeatSmartCNY.org

Retrofit Net-Zero Project in Brewerton, NY

2018-04-25T11:59:32.05Z

The first step in the process of overall energy efficiency was to reduce the load of the residence. Our crews installed spray foam insulation on the underside of the roof as well as in the basement. By insulating previously uninsulated space, this reduced air infiltration and effectively created more usable space.

With these steps complete, we were able to properly size the heating equipment that would be needed. With energy efficiency being the focus, we designed a 6-ton horizontal direct exchange geothermal system. The system needed properly redesigned ductwork to accommodate the increased airflow necessary for geothermal. All new ductwork was installed in the basement as well as being chased up to the second floor. The second-floor ductwork was exposed to provide a look that the customers preferred, a mix between country cottage and light industrial. The heating system now couples with a heat pump water heater to provide domestic hot water.

The horizontal loop field was installed using Halco’s 40,000-pound Hyundai excavator that utilizes a four-foot bucket. Each one of the six copper loops were laid in individual 125-foot trenches. We were able to remove their buried fuel oil tanks during excavation. This was of importance to the homeowners, who recently had a relative pay over $100,000 to clean up oil spilled from their buried tanks.

With the geothermal system up and operating, we then moved on to Solar PV. One of the large horse barns provided enough space to install the large, 39.9 kW roof-mounted system. The roof now supports a system that covers not only 100% of their load, but also provides power for the charging station the customers use to charge their Chevy Volts.

In the end, everything came together, and we helped make a retrofit net zero dream a reality!

Geothermal Heat Pump Tax Credits Approved by Congress

2018-03-26T14:21:14.05Z

Today the U.S. geothermal heat pump (GHP) industry scored a victory for its workforce as federal legislation was passed to extend federal tax credits for residential and commercial installations of GHPs. The measure was included in the Continuing Resolution spending bill recently approved by Congress.

The reinstated GHP tax credits are retroactive to Jan. 1, 2017, and extended to Jan. 1, 2022. The language also changes an important consideration for commercial GHP projects, making them eligible if commenced by Jan. 1, 2022 rather than placed in service.

“Today’s action by Congress finally fixes the inequity created two years ago when tax credits for solar installations were extended through 2021,” stated Geothermal Exchange Organization (GEO) President and CEO Doug Dougherty, “Credits for technologies including GHPs, fuels cells, microturbines, small wind and combined heat and power were left to expire at the end of 2016.

Since then it was an uphill fight, as GEO and its allies worked diligently for parity with the solar industry through bills in both the House and Senate. GEO’s message to legislators was ultimately heard: Congress shouldn’t be picking winners and losers when it comes to renewable energy and fairness in tax policy. “And now we have finally achieved parity with solar,” said Dougherty.

Coalition partners included all of the “orphaned” clean energy technologies, and among others, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the National Association of Homebuilders, and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. In the days prior to passage, GEO joined a larger coalition of business, energy, transportation, real estate, and agriculture stakeholders who gathered forces to make their case for including tax extenders in the CR that passed the Senate and the House.

GEO’s relentless campaign to regain GHP tax credits included several Executive Fly-Ins to Washington DC in 2017, plus GEO Board Members, staff and industry volunteers making hundreds of visits to House and Senate legislative offices. Grassroots efforts by GEO members and supporters included job site visits set up for key legislators to show them firsthand the value of GHPs and plead the industry’s case for tax credit parity with solar.

“Achieving this critical milestone for our industry couldn’t have been accomplished without the positive and aggressive leadership of GEO staff, GEO manufacturers and members, our DC lobbying team—and the tireless efforts of my fellow board members during several Fly Ins to Washington during the past two years,” said GEO Board Chairman Joe Parsons (EarthLinked Technologies, Inc.).

“Our hard-fought victory for the GHP industry helps ensure a bright future for our technology,” said Dougherty. “It will stem the loss of jobs we now face, provide more time to overcome market barriers, achieve economies of scale, and help spread the environmental and economic benefits of GHPs across America.

Energy Efficient Upgrades to Honeoye, NY Home

2017-10-03T11:20:16.05Z

Halco sent an Energy Advisor to provide a top-to-bottom look at Carl’s house and pinpoint exactly where energy and dollars were being wasted. Our energy advisor found the home had a 24-year-old furnace and major air infiltration in the basement. Carl was spending way too much money on fuel in the cooler months and was reaching his budget rather quickly. In the summer months, Carl was using window a/c units and fans to keep the home cool, no doubt running up his electricity costs.

Our Energy Advisor proposed many measures to help Carl obtain maximum comfort and efficiency within his home, but before moving forward, these measures were submitted to two state programs, EmPower New York and Assisted Home Performance, to determine if Carl was eligible for assistance paying for the work. Once Carl was approved, we were able to begin!

We installed a 40,000 btu variable speed furnace with a Goodman 2-ton 2 stage 16 seer heat pump. In addition to heating his home, Carl could now cool his home and no longer worry about using window a/c units and fans. We also air sealed and insulated the basement, added an insulated door to block air infiltration from the bilco door, upgraded the old ducting, and replaced the old thermostat. Carl even signed up for a maintenance agreement to have Halco come and service his new heating system each year and ensure it’s in tip-top shape!

A year later, Carl recalls the entire experience as “top of the line and extremely professional.” He was very pleased throughout the entire process, from the initial sales call to installation. What makes Carl even happier is the savings. His propane bill has been cut almost in half, from using 770 gallons to 440, and his electric bill also took a drop from approximately $120/month to $90/month. Carl stated that the upgrades to his home have made him more comfortable, both physically and financially. He rates Halco a 10/10 and recommends us whenever he can. We are so happy that these improvements have made a positive impact on Carl’s home and life!

Halco Enters the High Pressure Water Jetting Industry

2016-09-01T13:42:41.05Z

Halco Energy has added high pressure water jetting to the complete line of plumbing services currently available to their customers in Central and Upstate New York.

The new jetter will be used both commercially and residentially to clean sewers, drains, storm drains, and industrial lines with a high pressure stream of water that has the power to remove debris and build up.

The principle of hydro jetting involves the use of extremely high-pressure water to clean, cut, and remove blockages. The head contains tiny jets that dispense water at knife-like pressure up to 6000 psi. This powerful pressure has the ability to eliminate tree roots, grease, scale, etc. - all without the damage inflicted by mechanical snakes and rotating blades.

Established in 1984, Halco is dedicated to the comfort of residential and commercial property owners in a 16 county region of Central New York and the Finger Lakes. Headquartered in Phelps, NY, its services range from traditional HVAC and plumbing services to home performance assessments, insulation, and installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar and geothermal.

Elisabeth Bodnaruk Earns Radon Certification

2016-01-14T11:09:32.05Z

Elisabeth Bodnaruk has earned certification as a Radon Measurement Specialist and Radon Mitigation Specialist. The certifications were conferred by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) and Rutgers University.

With her new certifications, Bodnaruk, a home energy advisor with Halco Energy, is qualified to test homes for radon and recommend remediation measures when this colorless, odorless gas is found. To earn the credentials, Bodnaruk successfully completed a three-day course conducted by the New Jersey Agricultural Station’s Office of Continuing Professional Education at its Eastern Radon Training Center. She is the first Halco employee to earn radon certifications.

Bodnaruk is also BPI (Building Performance Institute) Envelope and Building Analyst certified. She performs home energy audits to determine how energy is being wasted, in addition to testing for radon. After gathering information about the building construction, existing insulation, air infiltration and HVAC systems, Bodnaruk calculates building heat loss and energy usage and recommends improvements where they are needed. Halco Energy performs more home energy audits than any other company in New York State.

The Greensboro, NC native earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from North Carolina State University and a Masters of Science in ecology from Syracuse University. Before joining Halco in February, Bodnaruk worked as a physicist at NIST (National Institute of Standards & Technology) in Gaithersburg, MD and a biology lab instructor and research assistant at Syracuse University.

ABOUT HALCO ENERGY

Established in 1984, Halco Energy is dedicated to the comfort of residential and commercial property owners in a 16 county region of Central New York and the Finger Lakes. Headquartered in Phelps, NY, its services range from traditional heating and air conditioning to home performance audits, insulation and installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar and geothermal.

Halco Opens Window & Door Division

2015-12-01T10:35:30.05Z

Halco Energy has added windows and doors to the complete line of home comfort products it offers homeowners in the Finger Lakes area. Recently, Janice Sipp joined the company to manage the division.

Sipp has worked for and managed leading window and door companies in upstate New York. Most recently, she was general manager of Wonder Windows in Rochester.

After successfully completing InstallationMasters™ training, Sipp received window and door installation certification from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). She has also been BPI (Building Performance Institute) and EPA Lead-Safe certified.

Halco President Hal Smith says, “With the addition of a window and door division, under the direction of an experienced manager like Janice Sipp, Halco truly offers everything under the sun for home comfort. During the 31 years that we’ve been in business, customers have asked us to help make their homes warmer and more comfortable by replacing their windows and doors. The window and door division rounds out the building envelope and complements our insulation and air sealing division.”

“I am proud to join the Halco Energy management team,” Sipp says, “and pleased that the company chose to partner with Sunrise Windows & Doors.” She notes that Sunrise custom manufactures all products to Halco’s specifications, and they meet the new ENERGY STAR® 2016 Most Efficient Standards. All are American made and carry a lifetime warranty that covers the entire window, including glass breakage, and the warranty is fully transferable to a second property owner.

Established in 1984, Halco is dedicated to the comfort of residential and commercial property owners in a 16 county region of Central New York and the Finger Lakes. Headquartered in Phelps, NY, its services range from traditional heating and air conditioning to home performance audits, insulation and installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar and geothermal.

Halco Installs 5.89 kW Roof-Mounted Solar Array in Cato, NY

2015-11-18T09:07:17.05Z

Solarize CNY is a non-profit program that is designed to help people make the switch to clean, sustainable energy. The campaign aims to help residents and business owners overcome the financial hurdles of installing solar through volume purchasing. With a large focus on education, the solarize campaigns bring communities together through implementation of outreach and educational programs that are designed to teach the community the benefits of going green. After attending a Solarize CNY meeting, this Cato, NY couple decided to have Halco perform their free site assessment. Lewis and Sally received a proposal from a Halco Energy Advisor and they decided to move forward with the project.

Halco installed a 5886 W (5.886 kW) grid-connected solar electric system on the customer's barn roof. The array consists of eighteen (18) SunPower E-20 327 Watt Modules and is designed to generate approximately 6,116.6 kWh per year.

The system is configured electrically as three (3) DC circuits (strings) of six (6) series connected modules through a DC disconnect switch to one (1) SMA 6 kW inverter. This inverter provides grid-synchronous AC output and interfaces to the electric utility. System power production (kW) and energy production (kWh) monitoring is provided by a digital display on the inverter and an electromechanical meter.

During a post-production interview with the homeowner he stated that their new system is expected to account for 70% or more of his current electrical usage. When asked what aspect of the system he was most excited about, the homeowner was quick to confirm his excitement in making a contribution towards emission reduction. We congratulate the couple on taking this major step towards energy independence and reducing their environmental impact!

Halco Honored For Trade Fair Benefiting Local High School Students

2015-10-19T09:18:01.05Z

The Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board recently honored Halco as a founding member of Finger Lakes Works with their Hands (FLWWTH). The Phelps-based energy/comfort contractor was instrumental in establishing the one-day skilled trades fair 10 years ago.

Each fall, nearly 700 area high school students attend FLWH at Rodman Lott and Son Farms in Seneca Falls. They are offered a firsthand look at the skilled trades and advanced manufacturing careers that are available in the Finger Lakes Region.

Students have an opportunity to speak with businesses, professionals and representatives from colleges and trade schools about careers in the skilled trades. They can also participate in hands-on welding, heavy equipment operation, carpentry and masonry demonstrations. At the Halco building, students could ride a scissor lift and try their hand at plasma cutting and soldering.

At the end of the day, Hal Smith, president of Halco, was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his role in establishing this successful event that continues to grow year after year. Smith is a past chair of the Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board.

Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board Executive Director Karen Springmeier presents a certificate to Halco President Hal Smith for his company’s support of Finger Lakes Works with their Hands since its founding 10 years ago.

Established in 1984, Halco is dedicated to the comfort of residential and commercial property owners in a 16 county region of Central New York. Its services range from traditional heating and air conditioning to home performance audits and renewable energy installations.

Check out these student-made videos of #FLWWTH2015

Local Nonprofit Launches Energy-Efficient Home Heating Program

2015-09-29T09:28:24.05Z

Media Contact:

Matthew Johnston, Program Director | HeatSmart Tompkins| matt@solartompkins.com | 617-680-2646

Public information meetings for HeatSmart Tompkins start Tuesday, September 15

Last year, the Switch to Solar initiative gave Tompkins County residents a simple way to connect with solar panel installers. The result was more than 400 new photovoltaic systems, more than doubling the number in the county.

This year, Solar Tompkins, the volunteer-led nonprofit that created the program, is turning its attention to an even bigger energy challenge.

“On average, 75 percent of the energy use by homes in Tompkins County goes towards heating, cooling, and domestic hot water,” said Jonathan Comstock, chair of the Solar Tompkins board of directors. “Most of that comes from burning fossil fuels. Happily, the technology is now available to let homeowners increase their comfort, reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and save money.”

Solar Tompkins’ new HeatSmart Tompkins program is designed to make it easier for county residents to weatherproof their homes and switch to highly efficient heat pump systems by offering them lower-than-market rate pricing and a streamlined process with selected companies, Comstock said.

Heat pumps draw heat from the ground or the outside air and transfer it to the interior of the home. They run on electricity and can be used for heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. Both ground-source and air-source heat pumps are effective at the low temperatures typical of this region.

“This is an exciting initiative,” said Matt Johnston, HeatSmart Tompkins’ program director. “Home insulation and heat pump services can’t come to Tompkins County soon enough, especially with winter approaching.”

Solar Tompkins recently selected three companies – Halco, NP Environmental, and Zerodraft – as its partners in the HeatSmart program. “These are fantastic businesses that offer top-notch services,” Johnston said. “They’re ready to handle the surge of activity we anticipate as residents learn more about this opportunity.”

The program launches on Tuesday, September 15, with an open meeting at the Enfield Grange Hall from 7 to 9 pm. It’s the first of a series of public information sessions in each town in the county running through the end of October. At the meetings, residents will have a chance to learn about the program, meet the installers, and sign up for a free home energy assessment.

Additional meetings are scheduled for September 16 from 7 to 9 pm at the Danby Town Hall, September 17 from 7 to 9 pm at the Brooktondale Community Center, and September 19 from 10 am to 12 noon at the Lehman Alternative Community School in Ithaca.

A full meeting schedule, as well as dates and times for tours of local homes with heat pump systems, is available at SolarTompkins.org.

Towards a Carbon-Free Home

Because heat pumps can be powered by renewably generated electricity, they “open the pathway to a zero-carbon home,” said Melissa Kemp, who headed last year’s Switch to Solar campaign. “Enrolling in HeatSmart Tompkins is a great next step for people looking for ways to shrink their carbon footprints. For many families, it will also make immediate economic sense.”

Katie Borgella, deputy commissioner of planning for Tompkins County, said HeatSmart Tompkins complements the County’s long-term greenhouse emissions goals. “We hope the program will inspire individuals to take action to help our community create a more sustainable energy system,” she added.

HeatSmart Tompkins is a program of Solar Tompkins, a nonprofit corporation dedicated to advancing a renewable energy future while providing comfort, economic security, and ecological stability. More information about the HeatSmart program, including pricing, enrollment details, and the schedule of public meetings and tours, can be found at SolarTompkins.org.

Solar Installation in Cortland, NY

2015-09-08T15:13:11.05Z

After receiving their no cost home energy audit from Halco, Alex and Donna opted for a solar electric system installed as a roof-mounted array on their garage roof. The 6.6 kW system that was installed consists of 24 solar panels and is designed to generate 6,222 kWh per year.

Alex and Donna were very pleased with the installation time and the crew stating, “Halco did a great job – they met all of our expectations.” The couple has had a steady stream of people stop at their home to ask questions and admire the work. Recently, they were asked by the Solarize CNY – Cortland initiative to become a stop on the summer solar tour, where local community members can find out more about the couple's experience with going green!

Alex has also adopted the home’s solar monitoring system as something of a hobby. The couple spends their winters in South Carolina, and Alex was able to log on to his computer and see how much electricity the system was producing. Donna said her May 2015 bill was $18 and last year at this time it was $105.70! Congratulations to this couple on taking a step towards energy independence!

Geothermal Installation in Trumansburg, NY

2015-07-01T09:31:31.05Z

Home Energy Audit

After speaking with Peggy about her interest we sent a home energy advisor to work with the customers and perform a no cost home energy audit. Home energy audits are an essential part of making a home truly comfortable and sustainable. Information about the building construction, air infiltration, insulation and HVAC systems is gathered and from there the homeowners are given recommended improvements and estimates. Because these improvements make the home more energy efficient and affordable there are a number of rebates and incentives that are explained to the customer as well. MaryLou stated that during their home energy audit the advisor was, "A very good salesman," and she continued to affirm that his knowledge and enthusiasm inspired confidence.

Choosing Halco

At this time, Peggy and MaryLou had also sought out geothermal quotes from two other companies. Why did they choose Halco? Well, the first company wanted to remove the furnace from the home, where as our design team was able to build the furnace into the geothermal plan. And the second company? The two just didn't feel they were as professional as Halco. Peggy acknowledged that the quality of the assessment combined with the obvious skill portrayed in the estimate "sealed the deal." She stated that through her first experience with Halco she knew the business model of the company was exceptional.

The Installation Process

We started work for Peggy and MaryLou during the cold winter and step one was to insulate the shell of the home. Insulation does more than reduce the amount of electricity used for heating and cooling, but it will also reduce the load put on the geothermal system during extreme winter and summer weather and keep the home airtight.

Upon arrival, our geothermal project manager, noticed that there was a water leak below the kitchen due to a frozen pipe. Being an unexpected speed bump, he directed the insulation crew to start insulating the opposite end of the crawl space as he worked to fix the pipe. By the time the pipe was repaired, the insulation team could move to the other side of the crawl space and no time was lost. Peggy mentioned her satisfaction in the manager's multi-skill set and his ability to troubleshoot when necessary. During additional work, "[Halco] found electrical issues and fixing it took four hours," Peggy stated. "This was done on a Friday night and they were at the house until 8 pm, but they weren't going to stop until it was finished," she said, referencing the teams ability to troubleshoot.

Once insulation was complete, the geothermal project commenced. The most common types of geothermal heat pump systems are horizontal, vertical and diagonal. For these customers, a 6-ton horizontal system was determined to be the best solution. Horizontal systems have the advantage of ease and simplicity of installation and although there was still snow on the ground, our ability to dig trenches for the geothermal system was not hindered. Inside the basement of the home the actual heat pump (including a compressor, and condenser/evaporator) was installed along with the retrofitted furnace that will serve as the air handler. Our technicians have worked with Peggy and MaryLou along the way to ensure they understand the system in it's entirety.

Overall Review

From start to finish, Peggy and MaryLou were very pleased with the project. Peggy stated, "Everybody came together when they said they were going to and they even called in advance." In reference to our geothermal manager she said, "He was not pushy about making suggestions, but had a way of explaining all of the things your company can do through recommendations." Peggy and MaryLou opted to add a dehumidifier to their basement after learning how it can control dampness and other moisture issues in their basement. "These are things that we would not have known otherwise," she added.

Overall, Peggy and MaryLou are very excited about their new geothermal heat pump. They are even more excited to see what the combination of geothermal with their existing solar can do to efficiency. What advice do these two women have for you? By all means, make sure you go with someone who is local. With a local company, you can rest assured that service calls and assistance is readily available.

For more details on how a geothermal heat pump works and the general requirements please visit: https://www.halcoenergy.com/geothermal.html or contact Halco today!

Marcellus, NY Customer Goes Green with Solar

2015-06-01T15:21:31.05Z

During a post-project interview with Larry, he stated that he obtained a large amount of information from the show and went home to further research his options. He was pleasantly surprised to not only find a vast amount of information on the specific solar panels that we use, but to also learn of Halco's commendable reputation. In addition, Larry wanted to make sure the company he chose was seasoned in solar and large enough to sustain solar panels over a 30 year period- he was confident Halco would suit his needs. A free home energy audit was scheduled and Larry affirmed that he made his final decision to work with Halco after talking to Jamie, a home energy advisor, alone.

The system that Halco installed at this home is a 5.88 kW grid-connected solar electric system that was installed as a roof-mounted array of 24 SunPower solar modules. As designed, this system will output approximately 5,657 kWh per year, which has a corresponding CO2 emissions savings of around 8,600 lbs.! 8,600 lbs... the equivalent to CO2 emissions from 9.1 barrels of oil consumed, 439 gallons of gasoline, or 4,190 pound of coal burned! Talk about reducing your carbon footprint dramatically! When asked why he decided to go green Larry stated that it was a combination of the environmental and financial benefits. He was interested in severely reducing his electrical bill and having sat down and computed his savings over 30 years, the return on investment was unbeatable.

Larry could not say enough about how happy he was with the entire process from start to finish. "...the way they relate to customer needs, the way they picked up the site after the project was finished... I can go on and on," he stated. In reference to the installation crew, Larry referred to them as professional, efficient, very well integrated and a team that he would want working for him. From aesthetics to the crew Larry declared, "The whole thing has been very fun and I've really enjoyed it!" Well Larry, the feeling is mutual as we have deeply enjoyed you welcoming our team into your home and allowing us to help make your home more energy efficient!

Geothermal, Solar and Insulation Project in Cortland, NY

2015-05-05T09:08:16.05Z

During the home energy audit the blower door test failed (a test to help determine a home's air tightness) leading us to step one, which was to seal the home with spray foam insulation in the attic as well as the basement. Once the insulation project was complete another blower door test was run and again, it failed. At this point, Halco employees accessed the situation and determined that step two would be to insulate the band joists. A band joist is a board that is between two floors of a home, such as a first and second floor, and runs around the perimeter of a home. Insulating band joists can be a fairly invasive project if not done right, but in a post project interview Laurie stated, "It was nothing. Really no mess at all." Once the insulation was complete, the home passed the blower door test and we were able to move forward with these homeowners.

The results of the energy audit determined that a combination of solar electricity and geothermal heating would be the best way to accomplish what the customers wanted and needed out of the project. First, an 8.8 kW solar electric system was installed as a roof-mounted array on the customer's barn. The system consists of 32 SolarWorld modules and is designed to generate 7,372 kWh per year. Energy production will be equivalent to 83% of the customer's current baseload usage which corresponds to a CO2 emissions savings of 8,846.4 lbs. per year! And to finish, a 5 ton vertical geothermal system was installed. Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) function by using the constant temperature of soil below the frost line to provide heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. Vertical systems, which require a bit more skill to install, are typically drilled between 150 to 400 ft. below grade, depending on the project and because of the depth of the system, they do not experience a significant COP (coefficient of performance) fluctuation over the heating season.

When asked about their overall experience Laurie stated, "We've never worked with a company like this before. They were just going to get it done no matter what it took." In reference to Halco owner, Hal Smith, she said, "I don't know where he gets his guys, but every single worker was respectful and worked very hard." A huge thank you goes to Larry and Laurie for allowing us to work with you and congratulations on taking a major step towards energy independence and for dramatically reducing your environmental footprint!

Remodeling project in Waterloo, NY

2014-11-04T16:47:46.05Z

Halco quickly fixed the problem (water flowing from the upstairs bath into the kitchen), and signed up the homeowner for a service agreement to protect against future problems. From this encounter a world of change was about to descend on the home! Foreman Willy Grant came back with a Halco crew and changed a utility room into a laundry room. Then improvements continued: an extension for the the master bedroom, a redo of their tiny bathroom, a large media room upstairs, a replacement of their old water heater with a tankless water heater, insulation for the basement and attic, a ductless split heater and A/C and more. "Now everything is tighter, brighter and a joy to live in," said the homeowner. "The guys did a terrific job! Our next project might be solar... we've been extremely satisified with everything Halco has done to date!"

Navien Combi Boiler/On-Demand Water Heater Installation in Newark, NY

2014-02-25T13:26:13.05Z

We took out an existing 80% induced-draft 120K natural gas boiler that had three massive single-speed 1/12 HP Bell and Gossett circulator pumps – one for each zone. The pumps were of such an industrial size that they required 62 watts each of electricity to operate, as well as routine oiling on a regular basis (as evidenced from the oil spots on the floor below each of them).

The home is a geodesic style (spherical) with a very high ceiling. Conventionally, they only operated one zone of the system (1^st floor) because operating the upper 2^nd floor zone would make the living space uncomfortably warm (180F-200F supply water). The basement is fully finished with extensive décor throughout, but was only heated when entertaining in an attempt to save money. All three zones are finned tube, conventional baseboard which they were able to keep with no modifications.

For domestic water, they used a separate on-demand style water heater for a three person household.

The new pre-fabricated modulating/condensing combination Navien boiler with on-demand domestic water heating capability that we installed with a hydraulic separator, zone valve-style distribution, and single alpha variable-speed pressure-regulated circulator (running at a cool 24 watts with all zones operating simultaneously) fits this and almost every other conventional hydronic application in existence to date.

By utilizing a return water setting (120F or less) and an outdoor temperature reset control, we were not only able to cut their operating costs (both electrical and fuel consumption) dynamically in half, but we were able to allow them to run all three zones at a comfortable level for a comparably less cost to the single zone they were utilizing in the previous system design. To top off this massive improvement to the home, they are now able to run space heating and domestic hot water through a single wall mounted appliance with common piping, providing them with additional storage space in their mechanical room.

New Geothermal Hydronic System in Penneville, NY

2014-02-25T10:01:02.05Z

We were called upon to take a look at a 5-ton Geothermal System in Penneville, NY that had a detailed history of annual repairs, compressor replacements, and poor performance throughout the ten years of its application. The system was a combination-style refrigerant-to-air geothermal heat pump system with water-based closed earth loop-style design. The distribution system was both radiant tubing in-floor and forced air distribution throughout. Aside from the constant repairs throughout the life of the system and their growing annual utility bill attributed to unnecessary electric heat auxiliary operation; one of the customer’s primary complaints was that the forced air operated almost constantly during heating mode when they had beautifully designed in-floor radiant.

Geothermal systems like this boast functionality in a single piece of equipment being able to provide both hydronic heat and forced air heat and air conditioning, but when approached from an efficiency and comfort perspective, leave many questions unanswered. Our solution, readily embraced by the homeowner, was to take a fully hydronic approach-utilizing the radiant in-floor as a primary, quiet source of heat, while providing the exact same comforts of air conditioning using chilled water.

We were able to replace the existing water-to-air combination geothermal heat pump with a fully hydronic water-to-water-style 5-ton geothermal heat pump with much simpler engineering. The existing 40 gal. buffer tank for the hydronic side was replaced with a more appropriate 80 gal. glass-lined buffer tank for more accurate storage capacity that also facilitated chilled water storage during the cooling season. A hydronic air handler was incorporated to this new design to handle the air conditioning and backup heat for the system when necessary. With a few other minor alterations to the existing system and some new controls, the results were uncanny.

Heating and cooling water directly is always more efficient than heating or cooling air, which is conditional to relative humidity--10 years of growing utility bills and constant modifications is a less-than-ideal way to reveal these details.

Where it appeared the previous systems technicians did all they could to successfully keep the existing system limping along, rest assured that no amount of duct tape will resolve a poorly matched design and distribution application. Geothermal hydronic systems not only exhibit unsurpassed efficiencies for space heating and cooling, they unilaterally offer the quiet comfort and reliability that we believe every homeowner deserves.

4-Ton Horizontal Geothermal Installation in Bridgeport, NY

2014-02-24T11:05:58.05Z

This was a new construction 4-ton horizontal-style direct expansion geothermal system we installed in Bridgeport, NY. This system was an ideal choice, as the front yard was still under development as well as the rest of the home. The cost of bringing natural gas to the site was so outrageous that even knowing little about geothermal and its potential applications, the customer came to us for a solution. We noticed that the site exhibited extremely ideal conditions for DX, even though the front yard was full of standing water, we were able to see the potential for harvesting energy in the winter and storing the home’s waste heat during the summer months.

We excavated 4 -125 ft. trenches and installed a single 250 linear ft. copper ground loop in each, accompanied by a re-saturation system and a common impressed cathodic current protection system to protect the copper from corrosion. The excavation was completed in two days.

On the inside of the home, a 4-ton direct expansion compressor unit and refrigerant-to-air air handler served the forced air heat and air conditioning of the entire home, including the basement. This compressor unit also was ordered with domestic water heating capabilities, where an annual average of 25%-50% of the domestic water heating is generated by the waste heat of the compressor unit itself (based on usage and demand). Because of the lack of local natural gas and the customers resentment towards propane or fossil fuel in general, we recommended a heat pump water heater--which the customer elected to supply and install themselves (already having a local plumber on site). We were happy to make the necessary modifications to the customer-supplied water tank and install the geothermal capabilities to it.

A fully web-based, remotely-accessible thermostat was installed; in conjunction with a remotely accessible data monitoring system, which logs and reports system temperatures, refrigerant pressures, and electrical consumption in 5 minute intervals. Because of concerns of the structure being located in a potential flood area, the controls were custom-programmed to send the owner a notification if the basement floor becomes wet. The peace of mind generated by being able to view this information and control the home’s HVAC while on vacation via mobile application is invaluable.

Spray Foam Insulation in Alton, NY Saves Customer Energy and Improves Comfort

2013-07-31T10:29:46.05Z

We installed 6" of open-cell spray foam insulation along the roof slopes, as well as 12" of blown cellulose on the attic flats. We also air sealed the rim joists with 2" of open-cell spray foam to further tighten up the house. This customer should begin to see immediate improvements in the comfort of their home, as we dropped their blower door reading from 6200CFM50 all the way down to 3700CFM50. That translates to a 40% drop in air leakage throughout the house, which will drastically reduce the draftiness, the extreme seasonal temperatures, and lower energy bills!

Spray Foam Insulation in Webster, NY Attic

2013-02-27T11:32:58.05Z

After evaluating the Atkisson's new home, we identified several ways to help them save energy and money, and live more comfortably in their new home! The attic needed some insulation, we chose to use 5-6 inches of spray foam insulation in this Webster, NY home. We used open cell spray foam along the sloped ceiling and the gabble ends in the attic, and 2 inches of closed cell spray foam along the rim joist and the basement windows. We also wanted to be sure that the basement ceiling was properly sealed and that all exterior doors had the appropriate weather stripping. In addition, we had to correct the bath fan so that it properly vented to the outside.

The spray foam in the attic will considerably reduce the air leakage and help keep the upstairs warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The owners now have a small space heater up there to keep it nice and warm, but eventually plans to finish the space. The basement is no longer drafty and moist!