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I think this is just an advertising gimmick. Yes they may give away some upgrades to a lucky one or two, but what they're really trying to do is get your info for future sales.

I filled out the contest entry and according to their analysis I could save over $1500 a year in energy costs by upgrading to high efficiency equipment…..funny thing is though, that amount is more than what I currently spend for energy (gas & electric)!

So I guess if I buy new, expensive, energy star central ac/heating, water heater, fridge, and stove to replace my existing 20 year old stuff, then Dominion and Washington Gas will be sending me a check every month.

What a crock.

BTW…I was honest with my answers, but the questions don't get into too much detail….especially since they don't ask what your 'current costs' are!

I appreciate Johnny B's skepticism. However, I think if he looks a little deeper he will see that LEAP is a non-profit organization that seeks to educate people about the advantages that can be gained when performing energy efficiency upgrades to our homes; namely greater comfort, a higher level of health and safety and as one might suspect, lower energy bills. LEAP also works with contractors to help promote the Home Performance industry (that implements the energy efficiency measures) and also acts as a third-party quality assurance provider.

As Johnny also points out, the on-line assessment tool is not perfect, but it provided a reasonable estimate on my house. As far as suggesting expensive appliances as a top-priority fix, that's almost never the case. Sealing leaks in your house (you'll be amazed at how many most homes have) and having proper insulation are the two biggest fixes most houses need – and they are the lowest cost!

If you are serious about making your home more comfortable, safe and efficient, LEAP is a great place to start.

…It looks pretty legit to me.  

Just my opinion of course, but I did not see anything alarming on the website, personally speaking.  I went ahead and entered the contest, guess I will know soon enough if they are advertising or not;)

Then again…what isn't advertising to you these days?  Everywhere you walk, drive, buy food, play with your kids, even inside your own home–you are constantly surrounding by someone wanting to sell you something.  At least this place gave me something for it, which is more the most.