An uplifting anniversary
Checking in with Home Uplift participants a year later
The 30-year-old HVAC system was on its last leg. The repairman declared there was nothing more he could do. A replacement was needed, but Garry and Susie Tanner couldn’t afford it.
“When we bought the house in 2012, the A/C was already old. It had quit on us a few times, but we didn’t see any way we could save up enough to buy a new one,” Susie said.
Then she read about Home Uplift, a program supported by Middle Tennessee Electric and the Tennessee Valley Authority that provides free home energy upgrades to eligible homeowners, resulting in lower utility bills and enhanced comfort and safety for participating MTE members. It was an opportunity the Woodbury retirees couldn’t pass up. A few months after applying, the Tanners learned their home had been selected as the co-op’s milestone 350th Home Uplift project.
MTE EnergyPro David Willhite conducted a comprehensive home evaluation to determine which energy-efficiency improvements would provide the greatest benefit.
Based on the evaluation, the Tanners received a new heating and cooling system, duct sealing, a water heater upgrade and additional air sealing and insulation improvements. TVA- and MTE-approved contractors completed the work on a schedule convenient for the Tanners.
“Because the home had not received significant energy-efficiency upgrades since it was originally built in 1996, these enhancements helped reduce air leakage, mprove comfort and increase the overall energy performance of the home,” Willhite said.
This month marks one year since the project’s completion was officially celebrated, and the Tanners say the improvements have made a noticeable difference.
“Our house has felt cooler all summer — you can really tell the difference. We love it!” Susie said. “Our old air conditioning would never have held out in this extreme heat we’ve been having.”
Combining the energy-efficient upgrades with MTE’s Levelized Plan is helping the Tanners avoid seasonal swings in their electric bill.
“I would recommend this program 100%,” Susie says, encouraging others who might qualify for the program to contact MTE for details.
With their energy worries behind them, the Tanners have more time to enjoy their hobbies in a comfortable environment. Susie creates cross-stitched embroidery projects, while Garry crafts wooden toys and other items sold through the White Oak Art & Gift Shop at the Arts Center of Cannon County. You can admire his work along with that of other local artisans during the 36th Annual White Oak Craft Fair happening Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13, at the Arts Center.
Learn more or apply for the Home Uplift program at mte.com/HomeUplift.
