'Impact Parties' Teach Energy Efficiency for the Home

There are jewelry parties, purse parties, "sell your gold" parties and now: "impact parties."

Wheaton residents can host impact parties through Energy Impact Illinois, a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, ComEd and Nicor, to learn how their homes can be more energy efficient and how to save money, according to the City of Wheaton.

At each party, an energy contractor conducts a brief energy assessment of a home, informs homeowners of where homes lose energy and options to stop that loss, and share the results with guests. The contractors use the latest technology in the building science world, such as blower doors and infrared cameras that take thermal images to make inefficiencies visual for guests.

There is also information about what rebate funds are available to help anyone who makes energy-efficiency improvements. 

The one-hour event comes with no obligation to sign up for anything. Hosts receive a full free energy assessment (valued at $400-$800). 

Energy Impact Illinois is led by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning with the goal of helping residents, businesses and nonprofits reduce energy use. 

To learn more about Energy Impact Illinois, go to www.energyimpactillinois.org. To inquire about hosting an Impact Party, contact Liz Optholt of Energy Impact Illinois at 708-203-2559 or liz@energyimpactillinois.org.