Ep 10. Newburyport: Powering Through

In this episode of This Old House season 45, the team heads to Newburyport, Massachusetts, to take on a project involving a historic home with a modern twist. This episode is titled "Newburyport: Powering Through."

The homeowners want to live in a home that is both historic and sustainable, so the This Old House team sets out to update the home with the latest energy-efficient technologies while keeping the home's original charm intact. The team begins by installing a solar panel array on the home's roof, which will allow the homeowners to generate their own electricity and reduce their dependence on the electrical grid.

Next, the team tackles the insulating the home's exterior walls with high-performance foam insulation. This will help to keep the home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while also reducing energy bills. The team also installs triple-pane windows throughout the home, which will further improve energy efficiency.

Inside the home, the team focuses on updating the mechanical systems. They install a new HVAC system, which will provide more efficient heating and cooling while also improving the indoor air quality. The team also replaces the home's old hot water heater with a new, energy-efficient model.

In the kitchen, the This Old House team puts their woodworking skills to use by installing custom cabinets made from reclaimed wood. They give the cabinets a distressed finish to match the home's historic feel. The team also installs a new, modern kitchen island that will provide the homeowners with plenty of workspace.

In the living room, the team builds a custom entertainment center for the homeowners. The center is made from reclaimed wood and features a built-in fireplace, which will provide both warmth and ambiance during the colder months. The team also updates the home's lighting system with energy-efficient LED bulbs.

Finally, the team puts the finishing touches on the home's landscaping. They plant native plants and trees to reduce the home's water needs and create a beautiful outdoor space that complements the home's historic charm.

Throughout the episode, the This Old House team shares tips and tricks for homeowners who are interested in making their homes more energy-efficient and sustainable. They also highlight the importance of preserving historic homes and finding ways to update them for modern living while maintaining their original character.

Overall, "Newburyport: Powering Through" is a great episode for homeowners who are interested in learning more about sustainable living and updating their homes with the latest technologies. With its focus on energy efficiency, historic preservation, and custom woodworking, this episode is sure to inspire viewers to make their own homes more beautiful and sustainable.