For this question you must understand the region you live in. In Birmingham, Alabama, we experience more cooling months than we do heating months. The state of Alabama HVACR board recommends at least R-30 of insulation. Alabama Power (our local utility company) would like for home owners to upgrade to R-60 of insulation in their attics. Insulation is a very cheap and quick energy saving item.
So how can you tell if you have R-60 or not? It depends on the material you use to insulate. The most commonly found loose fill insulation would need approximately 20 inches of depth. If you can go in your attic and see the rafters, you need more insulation.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Scott Russell is a Comfort Consultant with Freedom Heating and Cooling in Birmingham, AL. He specializes in heating and air conditioning planning for residential single family homes. Don Johnson is the President of Freedom Heating and Cooling. He is the author of a easy and helpful document “9 Things to Check Before Calling for Service on Your Air Conditioner or Furnace”.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR