The best way to learn how to conserve your personal energy usage, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint is to get a home energy audit.
Even a basic home energy audit will identify how much energy is used, the cost of that energy, and sometimes which appliances or devices are using up the most power. This information will help you form a simple strategy to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
How an Energy Audit Works
A home energy auditor visually inspects the exterior and interior of the home as well as basement and attic. The auditor is checking to see how well the air flows through the ductwork of the house and if there are any leaks. The pipes may be sealed improperly; there may be gaps in the insulation, or flaws in the original construction. Duct blower testing is used to find these issues in hot air heating and/or air conditioning systems with distribution ductwork.
Auditors sometimes use a tool called a blower door, which measures the pressure of the air in a home. This helps the auditor identify ways to better insulate and seal in air. That way the home can be heated and cooled faster, while using less energy to do so.
The auditor will then provide the client with written reports of their findings. This usually explains the work needed, expected cost, and projected energy savings when completed.
Find an Energy Auditor
Start by calling your utility company. Many public utility companies will conduct a basic home energy audit for their clients for free.
There are several places where you can locate professional energy assessment or auditing services. Your state or local government energy or weatherization office may help you identify a local company or organization that performs audits. They may also have information on how to do your own assessment. Your electric or gas utility may conduct residential energy assessments or recommend local auditors. Also check the energy section in your telephone directory for companies that perform residential energy assessments.
The cost of a home energy audit ranges from $250 to $400 depending upon the square footage of the house. Energy audits for commercial properties can be far more costly as the audited building is usually much larger.