Nature of the Work

Weatherization installers or technicians perform a variety of activities to weatherize homes and make them more energy efficient. They conduct energy audits on their clients' homes and advise them on possible energy conservation techniques. When working on a client's home, weatherization installers or technicians first determine the location of the home's thermal boundary and then identify all potential air leakage points. Leakage points can occur in ducts, around doors and windows, and in attics and crawlspaces. They determine the best methods and materials for sealing the air leakage points and then seal them. Weatherization installers or technicians also determine the best insulation for each application and make sure that their work is in compliance with all building and fire codes. They install blown-in cellulose insulation, fiberglass insulation, sealing, and other weatherization products in residences. Weatherization installers or technicians also repair and replace windows, roofs, or ventilation systems.

To help them make a home or building more energy efficient, weatherization installers or technicians use a variety of diagnostic tools:

• Blower doors are weatherization installers or technicians' go-to tool. They are used to measure the air leakage of a building. Once weatherization installers or technicians have fixed the leaks, the blower door can determine if the fixes are successful.
• Digital combustion analyzers are used to test for carbon monoxide and to ensure that the home's furnace is working at its highest possible efficiency.
• Infrared cameras detect thermal defects and air leakage in buildings.

This video shows the daily responsibilities of weatherization installers or technicians and how they work to make buildings more energy efficient.

Work Environment

Weatherization installers or technicians need physical stamina because the work frequently requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and working in attics, crawlspaces, and inside homes. They also may be required to lift and carry heavy objects.

A standard workweek is 40 hours.

Training, Other Qualifications

Weatherization installers or technicians can train for and earn Building Performance Institute (BPI) certification. Installers can seek training and certification in a variety of areas. BPI-certified professionals are regarded as specialists in their chosen fields by employers.

Education and Training

The minimum degree required for an entry-level position as a weatherization installer or technician is a high school degree. Candidates with high school degrees go through extensive on-the-job training. Community colleges, in preparation for training workers for green jobs, are offering weatherization installer courses. These courses are open to high school graduates with basic skills in math and carpentry. Candidates with training beyond high school will have an advantage when seeking employment.

On the Job

• Inspect buildings to identify required weatherization measures, including repair work, modification, or replacement.
• Recommend weatherization techniques to clients in accordance with needs and applicable energy regulations, codes, policies, or statutes.
• Test and diagnose airflow systems, using furnace efficiency-analysis equipment.
• Apply insulation materials such as loose, blanket, board, and foam insulation to attics, crawlspaces, basements, or walls.
• Explain energy-conservation measures, such as the use of low-flow showerheads and energy-efficient lighting.
• Install and seal air ducts, combustion air openings, or ventilation openings to improve heating and cooling efficiency.
• Install storm windows or storm doors and verify proper fit.
• Make minor repairs using basic hand or power tools and materials, such as glass, lumber, and drywall.
• Prepare and apply weather-stripping, glazing, caulking, or door sweeps to reduce energy losses.
• Prepare cost estimates or specifications for rehabilitation or weatherization services.
• Wrap air ducts and water lines with insulating materials, such as duct wrap and pipe insulation.
• Wrap water heaters with water heater blankets.
• Apply spackling, compounding, or other materials to repair holes in walls.
• Clean and maintain tools and equipment.
• Contact residents or building owners to schedule appointments.
• Explain recommendations, policies, procedures, requirements, or other related information to residents or building owners.
• Maintain activity logs, financial transaction logs, or other records of weatherization work performed.
• Prepare or assist in the preparation of bids, contracts, or written reports related to weatherization work.

Companies That Hire Weatherization Installer or Technicians

• Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Next Step Living
• RISE Engineering

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Additional Information

• Weatherization Assistance Program Technical Assistance Center

Sources

• O*Net Online. (2009). National Center for O*Net Development. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from http://online.onetcenter.org/
• Greendepot:Blog. (2010). An interview with Curtis McKinney of the Chicago weatherization program. Green Depot. Retrieved May 9, 2010, from http://blog.greendepot.com/green-products/an-interview-with-curtis-mckinney-of-the-chicago-weatherization-program/
• Damper, A., and Cook, C. (2010, June 17). Weatherization technician - cjcc.avi. Youtube.com Retrieved May 9, 2011, from www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d8VQnvKZR0&feature=related
• Weatherization Assistance Program Technical Assistance Center. (2011). Weatherization assistance program technical tools. Retrieved May 9, 2011, from www.waptac.org/Technical-Tools.aspx

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