LEAP Staff Profiles

Guy Caroselli, Residential Energy Services Manager

What brought you to LEAP?

My wife and I were actually contemplating moving to Virginia several years ago, and we liked the Lynchburg area. I knew of the work being done in Albemarle County around that same time.  Shortly thereafter I made an affirmation that I wanted to bring my experience in building science and particularly in the home performance arena to Virginia to help grow and expand the industry. When the job presented itself in the spring of 2010 it seemed an ideal match for my background and interests.

How efficient is your house?

We just purchased a 1973 brick ranch over a full basement that has building performance issues similar to other housing stock:  the insulation in the floor is backwards and sits 5” off the floor, the main air handler and most of the duct work is up in an unconditioned attic and the house though it has new windows is twice as leaky as it needs to be. Yes I would say I have my work cut out for me. We did put a soapstone woodstove on the first floor fireplace this past winter.

What are some of the most common energy problems you find in homes?

Every house has what I call “characteristic problem areas” and the challenge is to discover them and package them in a way that is prioritized and cost effective for the client. It always costs more money to do nothing than to do something, and usually if the work is done in a comprehensive, durable way it ends up being net cash positive when looking at a 5-7 year payback. Most homeowners think they are doing fairly well but don’t realize they are spending 30-50% more on their home’s energy use than they need to. My advice is to ask yourself this question: "Am I working for my home or is my home working for me?"

What's your favorite part about living in Central Virginia?

Virginia has moderate winters with a smattering of warm clear sunny days spread throughout the season. Charlottesville reminds me very much of the feel and look of Ithaca, NY. I will be enjoying the prolonged golfing and fishing season. There is so much rich history and natural beauty of gentle rolling hills.

Guy is available every Friday afternoon during LEAP's open office hours to answer your questions about LEAP and home energy efficiency. Make an appointment by emailing guy@leap-va.org or just stop by!