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A professional energy audit worth $400-$600, completely free. Plus $235-$575 in free installations during the visit -- LEDs, smart strips, showerheads, and sometimes a smart thermostat.
Last updated February 2026 | Required before most Mass Save rebates
The assessment itself is worth $400-$600 based on comparable private energy audits. On top of that, the assessor installs up to $235-$575 in energy-saving products during the visit at no charge. Total value: up to $1,175 for a single free appointment.
All Massachusetts residents who are customers of Eversource, National Grid, Unitil, or Cape Light Compact are eligible. No income requirements for the assessment itself.
A certified Mass Save assessor inspects 8 key areas of your home using professional diagnostic equipment including a blower door and thermal camera.
Attic, walls, basement, crawlspace
Thermal camera imaging to identify missing or thin insulation. Measure existing R-values.
Blower door test
Depressurize the home with a calibrated fan to measure total air leakage in CFM50.
Furnace, boiler, heat pump, or space heaters
Check efficiency rating, age, condition. Combustion safety test for gas/oil systems.
Water heater type, temperature, insulation
Check temperature setting (120°F recommended), pipe insulation, age, and efficiency.
Condition, sealing, storm windows
Check for drafts, broken seals, missing weather stripping. Recommend storm windows if applicable.
LED upgrades, appliance age
Replace incandescent/CFL bulbs with LEDs on the spot (free). Check appliance efficiency.
Programmable or smart thermostat
Install a free smart thermostat if eligible (select Honeywell/Ecobee models).
Duct leakage, insulation
Visual inspection for disconnected or leaky ducts. Recommend duct sealing if needed.
The assessor brings these items and installs them on the spot during your assessment. All at no cost to you.
| Item | Estimated Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| LED lightbulbs | $50-150 | All bulbs that need replacing — typically 20-40 bulbs per home |
| Smart power strips | $30-60 | 2-3 advanced power strips that cut phantom loads |
| Low-flow showerheads | $15-30 | WaterSense certified, 2.0 GPM or less |
| Faucet aerators | $5-15 | Kitchen and bathroom faucets |
| Hot water pipe insulation | $20-40 | Pre-slit foam on exposed hot water pipes |
| Door weather stripping | $15-30 | Exterior door sealing where needed |
| Smart thermostat | $100-250 | One per household — Honeywell Home or Ecobee (while supplies last) |
| Total Free Value | $235-$575 | Installed during your assessment at no charge |
Smart thermostat availability: Free smart thermostats are available while supplies last and subject to your utility provider. Eversource and National Grid typically offer Honeywell Home or Ecobee models. One per household.
masssave.com
Navigate to "Energy Assessments" section
From your detailed report to rebate check, here is what happens after the assessor leaves your home.
Detailed report within 5-7 business days with recommendations ranked by savings impact.
Report includes specific dollar amounts for each recommended improvement.
Mass Save provides a list of approved contractors. Get 2-3 quotes.
Insulation work typically starts within 2-4 weeks of contract. Heat pump may take 4-8 weeks.
Insulation rebate applied at installation (instant discount). Heat pump rebate: 8-12 weeks after documentation.
These tips from NuWatt installers help you get the most out of your free assessment.
The federal Section 25C energy efficiency tax credit expired December 31, 2025. There is no federal tax credit for home energy audits, insulation, or heat pumps in 2026. Mass Save rebates (state-funded through utility ratepayers) remain your primary incentive.
A typical assessment takes 2-4 hours depending on the size and complexity of your home. Larger homes (3,000+ sq ft) or homes with multiple heating zones may take closer to 4 hours. The assessor will inspect every floor, including attic and basement, and perform a blower door test to measure air leakage.
Yes. A homeowner or authorized adult must be present for the entire assessment. The assessor needs access to all rooms including bedrooms, the attic hatch, basement, utility closets, and the HVAC system. They will also ask questions about your energy usage, comfort concerns, and improvement priorities.
Yes, 100% free with no strings attached. The assessment is funded by Massachusetts utilities (Eversource, National Grid, Unitil, Cape Light Compact) as part of their energy efficiency mandate. There is no obligation to purchase anything or sign any contracts. You receive a detailed report with recommendations regardless.
Renters can schedule an assessment with landlord permission. The assessment and free installations (LEDs, power strips, showerheads) are available to renters. However, larger improvements like insulation, heat pumps, and weatherization require landlord authorization since they involve the building structure. Mass Save has a separate program for multifamily and rental property owners.
Mass Save assessment reports are valid for 2 years. You can request a new assessment after your previous report expires. If you have made significant changes to your home (major renovation, addition, or new heating system), you may request a reassessment sooner. Contact Mass Save at 866-527-7283 to discuss your situation.
Your assessment data is stored by Mass Save and your utility company. It is used to generate your recommendation report, track rebate applications, and report aggregate energy savings to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. Your personal information is not shared with third-party marketers. Assessment data helps Mass Save improve their programs.
Clear access to your attic hatch, basement, and utility areas. Have your most recent utility bills available (12 months if possible). Make note of any comfort complaints -- drafty rooms, cold spots, ice dams, or high utility bills. Ensure all exterior doors and windows are closed. If you have pets, secure them so the assessor can access all rooms.
Yes, for most rebates. The Home Energy Assessment is a prerequisite for insulation and weatherization rebates, HEAT Loan financing, and whole-home heat pump rebates. Some exceptions exist: standalone heat pump water heater installations and the basic $250/ton heat pump tier may not always require an assessment. Call Mass Save at 866-527-7283 to confirm for your specific situation.
The Home Energy Assessment is your first step to accessing Mass Save rebates, 0% HEAT Loan financing, and up to $575 in free installations. NuWatt can help coordinate your assessment and next steps.
Free assessment. No obligation. Required before most Mass Save rebates. Typical wait time: 2-4 weeks.