HomeBoost DIY Home Energy

Assessment Program Information and Guide

What is it?

Orange and Rockland Utilities, HomeBoost, and the Ramapo Catskill Library System have partnered to help you take control of your energy use.

You can borrow a HomeBoost BoostBox, a DIY home energy assessment kit, available at the Nyack Library at no cost.

To participate, you must have an active Orange and Rockland account. The kit includes everything you need to evaluate your home’s energy efficiency, along with step-by-step guidance through the HomeBoost app.

Library Checkout Rules

  • Kits can be checked out using a Nyack Library or Valley Cottage Library card.
  • You may borrow the kit for 7 days. Renewals are not permitted.
  • Kits must be returned in person to the circulation desk of the owning library.
  • Only one kit per family is allowed.
  • Borrowers must be 18 years or older.

What do you need?

  • A valid Nyack or Valley Cottage Library card
  • An active Orange and Rockland customer account
  • A smartphone, either Android or iPhone
  • Basic home details to improve report accuracy, although this is not required

What’s Inside the BoostBox?

FLIR infrared camera with charger
Blacklight flashlight

FLIR Thermal Camera: Handheld FLIR thermal camera used to detect heat loss around windows, doors, walls, and ceilings. Blacklight: Handheld blacklight flashlight used to identify lighting types and detect possible air leaks in a home.

How It Works

Set Up

Once you select the correct kit, either Android or iPhone, and borrow it from the library, you are ready to begin.

Download the HomeBoost app by scanning the QR code on the BoostBox using your phone’s camera.

A prompt will appear to download the app.

Open the app. You will be asked whether you need to order a box or already have one. Select Get Started under the option that indicates you already have a BoostBox.

Create Your Account

Enter your basic information such as your name and email.

Set up your BoostBox by scanning the QR code again and selecting continue.

Scan Your Home

The app will guide you through scanning your home using the thermal camera.

You will check areas such as doors, windows, and any locations where heat loss may appear.

You will also take photos of your thermostat and labels on your heating system and major appliances, if accessible.

You may be asked to provide additional details about your home.

Get Your Free Report

Within a few days, you will receive a free digital report.

This report provides insights, recommendations, and information about your home’s energy performance.

Make Improvements

You can choose which recommendations to implement, such as weatherization, heating system upgrades, or appliance improvements.

Some improvements can be completed on your own, while others may require a contractor.

Learn More

Scan the QR code provided in the kit to learn more about the HomeBoost program.